Timing belts are very unpredictable and can break or tear at any time. There are several causes of premature wear.
What causes the timing belt to break
There are 6 common causes for timing belt failure:
Temperature changes
Timing belts are made of rubber. Rubber stretches when heated and shrinks when cooled. Extreme heat or cold can cause small cracks on the outer surface of the belt. As a result, the timing belt may need to be replaced more quickly. Storing the car in a garage rather than outdoors will reduce the temperature changes to which the timing belt is subjected.
Oil leakage
Oil can interfere with the timing belt. It can get caught between the teeth of the belt and slip off or come off completely. If you notice oil leaking from the engine, it should be addressed as soon as possible, as it can cause further damage when the timing belt comes off.
Water Pump leakage
Water leaks affect the timing belt in the same way as oil leaks. The effect is even greater if the leaked water is mixed with antifreeze. If you notice water leaking from an unusual location, have it checked by your local service store. This will prevent water from affecting the life of your timing belt.
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Dry Climate
Cars that are often driven in hot, dry climates are likely to have their timing belts replaced more frequently than cars that are driven in warmer climates. Dry air can quickly weaken the rubber, causing the belt to crack or break. If you regularly drive in dry climates, it is recommended that you check the belt more often than every 60,000 miles, just to be safe.
Older Belts
Older car belts have trapezoidal and angular teeth. Newer belts have curved teeth, which are more forgiving and wear less. If you have a choice of belts for your car, always choose a long-lasting curved belt.
If you don’t drive your car much
If driven infrequently, belts can become stiff and brittle. Cars that are driven infrequently often need timing belt replacement, even if the mileage is shorter than cars that are driven regularly.
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FAQs
How much does it cost to replace the timing belt?
Timing belts are a bit tricky to replace because they are hard to reach in the engine. Therefore, the hourly rate for the garage has an important impact on the final price.
How can I protect my car and my family?
The best thing you can do for your car is to perform preventive maintenance! Flushing the coolant will keep the cooling system in tip-top shape and detect problems early (before water pump seizure occurs). Regular inspections can help detect timing belt wear at an early stage.
Hi, I am David Bailey a dedicated writer from Linden Bridge School with a degree in mechanical engineering and a degree in marketing. I strive to simplify complex subjects and like to explain complex and technical matters in an easy-to-understand manner. Read More Here
