Have you ever inspected your timing belt? Do you know how if you need to? Inspecting the timing belt is among the simplest but most important components of regular auto maintenance. The timing belt is in charge of keeping your motor running in perfect time. If your timing belt does not function properly, other parts will also begin to malfunction. This will lead to you having to have auto repairs and expenses that could have been avoided. How Often Do I Inspect my Timing Belt? Because of its importance, the timing belt should be checked on a regular schedule. In your vehicle owner manual there will be a manufacturer suggested timing belt replacement time, but make sure to inspect it at roughly every 10,000 miles. In addition, you should be sure to follow the manufacturer guidelines for replacing the timing belt, even if you do not see damage. Where do I find the Timing Belt? The timing belt is pretty easy to access. You may need a phillips screwdriver. The timing belt is usually found by removing the plastic timing belt cover. This will be found on the front part of your engine. The cover is most commonly secured with clips, but there are some that may be actually screwed down. In this case you will need to remove the screws to gain access. Be sure you keep them safe if you have screws to remove. Losing your tiny screws can quickly turn a simple auto repair much more difficult and time consuming. How to Inspect the Timing Belt Once the cover is off you need to check the timing belt for any cracks. Tiny little cracks that have formed will continue to worsen over time. A couple of small cracks in the outer coating are okay, but if many or deep cracks are found it is considered extreme wear. You will then want to inspect the other side of your timing belt. Turn the belt over a little where you can see and inspect each tooth. Even a single damaged section can be responsible for creating massive trouble. If you have not found any trouble spots so far, congratulations. You also need to look for excess play in your timing belt. You will do this by slightly twisting the belt. If your timing belt easily turns over halfway around, you have too much play in the timing belt. The owner manual for your vehicle will give you specifics for your exact auto, but this twist test turning past halfway is a simple rule of thumb to use. When Do I Replace my Timing Belt? Like previously stated, timing belt issues will lead to other auto repairs. ALWAYS replace your timing belt when the manufacturer's specifications say you should, even if you cannot see any damage. When excessive cracks, even small, are found on the smooth side of the timing belt, or if any broken or damaged teeth are seen on the back side, you need to replace it. In addition, if you have excessive play in your belt it is time to be replaced. The time to replace your timing belt is when you discover trouble. Just like most other auto repairs, an issue left unfixed likely leads to larger, more complex auto issues that will, in turn, require bigger, more costly auto repairs. If you do not address timing belt problems and your timing belt breaks or starts to shred apart on you, you will probably be facing some ugly auto repair bills. If you think you may have an issue with the timing and need a trusted, professional mechanic that can inspect things for you, bring your auto to Sanford's Automotive Service in Columbia, SC. We have been serving the Columbia, SC area since 1989. Stop by today or call to schedule an auto repair or vehicle maintenance appointment now. At Sanford's, an ASE Certified Master Mechanic finds you problem and gets it fixed right the first time!
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