When you bring your car to our shop for service, one of our techs may ask if you want to have your timing belt inspected. You might ponder the question because far too many people forget about their timing belt, let alone when to replace it. Today, we will discuss what the timing belt is, why it is important to inspect/replace it, what kind of warning signs it may display when it goes bad, and more!

The timing belt is an essential engine component that ensures the rotation of the camshaft and crankshaft is synchronized for the opening and closing of your engine valves. In simple terms, it ensures the proper amount of air and fuel gets burned at the right time. The belt is made of rubber, which is capable of drying out, cracking, fraying, and breaking as you put more miles on your vehicle.

A timing belt breakage is something that you never want to deal with as a driver. First off, it is bad because your car won’t be able to start (at all). Furthermore, It can cause your pistons to strike one another, causing damage that could have been avoided if you had replaced the belt sooner. Not to mention, if it happens while you are driving, you will need to call for a tow. That is why the team at One Stop Auto Care in Los Angeles wants to help you with inspecting and replacing your timing belt on time.

Symptoms of a Worn or Failing Timing Belt

• A ticking or rattling sound coming from the engine
• Engine misfire 
• Engine runs rough
• Oil leak 
• Exhaust fumes
• Physical cracks, tears, frays, etc.

Timing belts require replacing after 70,000-100,000 miles. The mileage can vary depending on the make, model, and age of your car. We recommend looking in your vehicle’s owner’s handbook for specific instructions.

If you notice any of the warning symptoms of a bad timing belt, please bring your car to our Los Angeles auto repair shop today. We can replace your timing belt, so you can go back to driving with confidence. We welcome you at One Stop Auto Care today!