The timing belt is a toothed rubber belt inside the engine. It keeps the crankshaft and the camshafts in sync, so the valves open and close at exactly the right moment in relation to the pistons.
Why it matters so much
If the belt breaks or jumps a tooth, the engine stops immediately. In many engines the valves then hit the pistons, and the repair costs far more than a normal belt change; sometimes it is not even worth repairing. The problem is that a timing belt usually gives no warning before it breaks.
How often it is replaced
The interval is set by the manufacturer and varies a lot from engine to engine. It is usually somewhere between 60,000 and 150,000 km or every 4 to 6 years, whichever comes first. The age limit matters, because the rubber ages even if the car covers few kilometres. Check the service book or ask us about your car.
If you bought a used car and do not know when the belt was last changed, it is safer to replace it.
What is replaced together with the belt
Usually the whole kit is replaced: the belt, the tensioner and the idler pulleys. On many engines the water pump is driven by the same belt, so it is replaced at the same time, to avoid repeating the same job a little later.
Timing chain instead of a belt
Quite a few engines have a metal timing chain instead of a belt. A chain is designed to last much longer, but over the years it can stretch. One sign is a metallic rattle for a few seconds when you start the engine from cold. If you hear it, the engine needs checking.
Timing belt replacement in Chania
In the workshop we replace timing belts and chains, tensioners and water pumps, with parts for all makes.
Frequently asked questions
How often does the timing belt need replacing?
It depends on the engine. Usually somewhere between 60,000 and 150,000 km or every 4 to 6 years, whichever comes first. The exact interval is in the service book.
What happens if the timing belt breaks?
The engine stops immediately. In many engines the valves hit the pistons and the damage is very expensive, far more expensive than replacing the belt.
These tips are general. Every car has its own manufacturer specifications, so ask us about yours.