(Timing Belt)
January 12, 2025
You may have heard about an important part of your vehicle's engine called a timing belt, and many know that if that belt breaks, it can cause some very serious engine problems.
Not all vehicles have them, and the ones that do generally have smaller engines. The timing belt keeps the engine synchronized so that every time a spark plug fires, the crankshaft, camshaft, pistons, and valves are all working together. Timing belts will eventually have to be replaced, and most vehicle manufacturers recommend when that should be. Typically, it's around every 60,000-100,000 miles, or 100,000-160,000 km. It's a good idea to stick to your vehicle's schedule or be alert for signs that the timing belt may be failing prematurely.
Some of those symptoms? Maybe your engine won't even turn over when you try firing it up. You might hear a ticking or banging sound under the hood. Perhaps you spot an oil leak or notice the engine misfiring. If any of those are happening to your vehicle, we strongly advise you to bring it in to us so we can have a technician see what's causing the issue.
Again, if your timing belt breaks, it can cause serious, expensive engine damage to valves and pistons. It is far better to have the timing belt replaced before it breaks.
Replacing it is fairly involved, and other associated parts, such as the water pump, thermostat, tensioner, and idler pulleys may be replaced at the same time. That way, your timing belt is more likely to last another 60,000-100,000 miles/100,000-160,000 km without any problems.
Timing belts are being used in fewer vehicles, with more and more using timing chains since they last longer. If you're wondering if your vehicle has one, contact our service adviser who can check. Maybe it's time to schedule a timing belt replacement to keep your vehicle's engine parts working in harmony as they should.
Charlie's Fast Lube Poplar Bluff
2020 N. Westwood Blvd
Poplar Bluff, Missouri 63901
573-686-5585
http://www.charliesfastlubepoplarbluff.com
Need Service?
More articles from Charlie's Fast Lube Poplar Bluff
Differential Service
March 15, 2026
When you're driving and turn a corner, you probably aren't aware of all that's going on with your wheels. The outside wheels have a longer distance to travel than the inside wheels, so there are gears that allow the wheels to go at different speeds when you turn. That set of gears is called a d... More
The Right Stuff (Choosing Replacement Parts)
March 8, 2026
Let's face it. Vehicles are complicated machines, each having thousands of parts. And since they're subjected to heat, cold, vibrations, bumps and much more, these parts wear out and need to be replaced. When your service advisor says you need a new part, you may have many options. Let's say ... More
Timing is Everything (Timing Cover Replacement)
March 1, 2026
Theres an important part in your vehicle that shields your timing belt, timing chain or cam belt from the debris and gunk that can be kicked up from the road. Its called the timing cover. Its important because the timing belt or chain is what coordinates parts of your engine called the camshaft... More