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How to Tell If Your Car Needs a New Timing Belt


The timing of the combustion process is coordinated by a timing belt. This toothed belt connects the engine crankshaft to the camshafts. A car's engine cannot and will not function without a proper functioning time belt. Which leads us to our topic. Read on to learn more about timing belts and signs that you need a replacement.

1. Misfiring Engine

Your car's engine is impacted negatively by a worn-out timing belt. It can lead to the engine misfiring.The belt will slip if it is worn or too loose, causing the cylinders to open and close earlier than they should. If the timing is incorrect, the engine will operate irregularly or not operate at all. Engine misfiring is a major indicator that your vehicle is due for a check up.

2. Ticking Noises from Engine

A worn-out timing belt can cause weird ticking sounds from within the engine. It is also an indicator of low oil pressure which affects the timing belt. No or low engine oil means no or less oil pressure on the tensioner and this could lead to the loosening of the timing belt from the break system.

3. Weird Squealing Noises

Squealing noises when braking, accelerating, decelerating or idling usually mean your timing belt is close to breaking. It's very important to have it checked out and replaced immediately to avoid further damage to your vehicle.

4. Engine Not Running

So, you've missed all the signs and your timing belt has completely broken up. This is why your engine is not running because a car's engine will not run without a working timing belt. Your starter motor will engage however, the vehicle will not budge. The only solution is to replace the broken timing belt.

Never attempt to do your own timing belt replacement, this is a job that should be left to the professionals. So, If you need a timing belt replacement, we invite you to bring your vehicle to Yates Automotive today!

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