Timing Belts / Timing Chains

What does a Timing Belt Do?

A timing belt, timing chain or cam belt is the part of your engine that synchronises the rotation of the crankshaft and the camshaft(s), ensuring that the engine’s valves open and close at precisely timed intervals.

Your engine’s valves operate in such a way as to allow fuel and air into and out of the engine’s combustion chamber as part of the combustion process. Where combustion (the normal ‘explosion’ of fuel and air being ignited in your engine) occurs – the valves push the pistons in your engine up and down, providing the power to drive your car forward.

If the valves and pistons do not open and close at the right times due to a timing belt issue, they can collide with each other. As the pistons are larger, where this happens they will damage the valves, potentially locking up your engine.

Your car’s timing belt is an essential part of your engine. If it fails for any reason then your engine will not run – and in some cases breaking can lead to catastrophic damage to your engine that cannot be repaired.

How do I know when to replace a timing belt?

Unfortunately, there isn’t an easy way to know if a belt needs replacing just by looking at it.

To the untrained eye, there may be no obvious signs that there is a problem or that your belt may be about to fail – it can just happen. For this reason, most manufacturers will have guidelines for the replacement of timing belts/chains – but a reasonable rule of thumb is to replace every 96,000 – 160,000 km.

I’ve heard replacing a timing belt can be expensive

Replacing a timing belt will typically cost €300 to €500, depending on your vehicle.

Where a timing belt is replaced it’s common practice to also replace the water pump. However, if your timing belt breaks and damages your engine’s valves, pistons or water pump, the cost can grow to twice or three times that amount. If you’re unlucky the engine (and usually also the car) can be a write-off.

Our Expertise

At Coby Autos, our staff will know what to look out for when inspecting a timing belt or chain.

We have the dealer-level ODIS diagnostics suite on hand to test every area of your engine. If you’re concerned about this or any other area of your car, give us a call on 01 459 1308. We’re happy to advise you on what may need to be done.

Coby Autos is a member of SIMI (Society of Irish Motor Industry). SIMI comprises dealers, repairers, distributors, vehicle testers, and other important operators within the motor industry in Ireland, providing training and setting standards. Our membership of SIMI gives our customers peace of mind and underpins our commitment to delivering the highest standards of workmanship and customer service.

To find out more about Timing Belts / Timing Chains in Dublin 22, contact us online or call us directly on 01 459 1308