What is a timing belt? A timing belt is a cogged rubber belt that connects the camshaft and crankshaft of an engine. The crankshaft is spun by the pistons via connecting rods, sort of like the crank on a bicycle is spun by your legs. The camshaft must open valves at certain points in the pistons’ travel, so the camshafts’ rotation must be synchronized to the crankshaft’s rotation. This is why the timing belt has cogs. The bumps in the timing belt fit into cogs in the cam and crank sprockets to prevent slippage.

Do all cars have timing belts? No. Some cars have a timing chain that connects the cam and crank sprockets and others have timing gears that connect directly.

When should I replace my timing belt? The manufacturer usually publishes a mileage/time interval for timing belt replacement, however, for some makes and models it’s not always clear, logical, or the best time.

Some examples:
Not clear: When the Acura was introduced there was no mileage or time interval published. (Later Acura recommended a 90K mi. 7.5-year interval)
Not logical: Some Mazda cars have a 105K mile interval for federal cars, but a 60K interval for California cars, even though the engine design and the timing belt part number are the same.
Not the best time: Most pre-1998 Toyota cars have a 60K mi. interval, yet the timing belts will easily last until 80K.

So, when should you replace your belt? When in doubt, use the published interval (if there is one). Give us a call with the year and model of your Acura, Honda, Mazda, Nissan, or Toyota, Audi, Hyundai, Subaru or Kia and we’ll be happy to let you know the manufacturer’s specifications or give you our opinion based on our past experience with your vehicle’s model.  

Should I replace the water pump with the timing belt? Maybe. There are a lot of variables  involved! The right time to replace the pump depends on your individual vehicle – the make, model, and how many miles are on it. It also depends on the type of water pump your car uses and whether it’s rotated by the timing belt; if it is, then it’s definitely a good time to do it, plus having it done now can save you money in the long-run. If the water pump is blocked by the timing belt (in other words — you must remove the timing belt to remove the water pump), then yes; it will save you money, time, and hassle. If the water pump can be replaced without removing the timing belt, then it’s not necessary to replace the water pump unless it’s worn or leaking. If the water pump is easier to replace when the timing belt is off, then you may want to consider replacing it since your vehicle is already in the shop. There’s also the question of cost; can you afford to do it now, while your vehicle is already in the shop, or would it be easier on your budget to come back in six months or so?

Should I replace the cam seal / crank seal / oil pump seal / oil pump O-ring? If the seals are leaking at all, then it’s a perfect time to replace them. They’re much easier to get to while we’re working on the timing belt, and it’s less expensive for you. Getting the leaking seals replaced will also prevent the possibility of needing to replace the timing belt again in the near future.

Should I replace the timing belt tensioner / idler? If either of them is damaged or worn down, then they should be replaced to prevent any damage to your new timing belt. Depending on the mileage of your vehicle or the condition of the belt tensioner/idler, you may want to have them replaced as preventive care since there’s no additional labor charge when they’re replaced along with the timing belt. It’s a convenient time to change them, however, it may not be necessary.

Should I replace the accessory drive belts? If the belts are worn down or cracked, then yes. If they’re still in good shape, they can be replaced at any time without removing the timing belt.

Does it make a difference what brand of part I use? Not necessarily. We work closely with our customers and always give them a choice on the parts used. We’ll explain the pros and cons of the different brands so you can make the most informed decision possible. We use quality parts, regardless of brand, and will always offer the best solution to fit your needs and budget. We provide a 3 year/36,000 mile warranty on all parts and labor, so no matter which part you choose, you can always feel confident in the quality of our repairs and part selection. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, give us a call at 253-854-6762. We’re always happy to help!