Maintaining our car is essential to prolong its lifespan. Often we focus on the upholstery, headlight maintenance, cleaning, or other aspects, forgetting one that, according to experts, is one of the most important. We are referring to the timing belt, which is one of the components that can give us the most headaches. There is commonly debate about how often it should be replaced, and the truth is that there is no exact figure: it will depend on factors such as the car model, how it is used, and even the climate in which it lives.
For this reason, the safest option is to consult the manufacturer’s manual or a specialized automotive mechanic. The inspection of tensioners, pulleys, and the water pump should be taken into account, because if not, the wear on the timing belt would be accelerated.
Timing belt
The car’s timing belt is a reinforced rubber component responsible for synchronizing the movement of the crankshaft with the camshaft in the vehicle’s engine. Its specific function is to open and close the valves at the right moment so that the pistons operate correctly. A broken belt can cause irreversible damage to the combustion engine, rendering the vehicle completely unusable. That is why its maintenance is essential, although we often overlook it.
When do we need to change the timing belt?
It is important to keep this part in good condition, because otherwise, the damage can be not only very expensive but also irreversible, especially if it affects the engine. You have probably heard some opinions that suggest it is best to change it at 40,000 km, while others argue it can last up to 100,000 km.
Is there an exact mileage?
The truth is, there isn’t. Some manufacturers recommend changing it between 60,000 km and 90,000 km, while others extend it up to 120,000 km. However, it depends on factors such as the vehicle model, climate, engine type, and usage. As advice, the safest way to do it is by consulting the manufacturer’s manual or a specialized automotive mechanic.
And what happens if I miss the replacement date?
We have already seen what happens if the timing belt’s operation gets damaged. That is why attention should be paid to various factors that influence its wear:Intense city driving:
- Frequent stops and starts accelerate wear.
- Extreme weather conditions: heat, cold, and humidity affect the belt’s lifespan.
- Lack of maintenance: not checking tensioners, pulleys, and the water pump can shorten the belt’s lifespan.
What can I do if I buy a used car?
If you are thinking about buying a used car or have done so recently, you should take into account the condition of the timing belt. If you cannot be sure of when it was last changed, it is recommended to replace it at the time of purchase.
It is true that it is a very high cost, but the truth is that it is an investment that will save you from many unforeseen problems in the future and will give you the peace of mind of driving safely on the road. The most important thing is to consult with an expert or with the car manufacturer, follow their recommendations or those of a professional, and carry out the necessary periodic checks.