Have you ever wondered what makes your vehicle's engine run smoothly and efficiently? It's actually a combination of many parts moving in tandem, in unison, in synchronicity, and at very critical intervals. What makes this possible? The timing belt. Our Antioch, IL Raymond Kia service techs have a brief overview.
As its name suggests, the timing belt controls the engine’s timing. It's an actual belt often made of rubber but occasionally made of metal. The metal type is a timing chain. The timing belt interfaces with engine camshafts and the engine crankshaft by way of shaft cogwheels, rather like a bike chain. Differently spaced cogs make each shaft spin at different speeds. This timing is essential for engine efficiency, and the timing belt makes it possible day after day, year after year.
Timing Belt LifespanMetal timing belts may last up to 10 years. However, rubber belts are still common, and most come with a manufacturer's recommendation that they undergo replacement at least every 60,000 miles. Failing timing belts often manifest as engine problems, namely engine clanging, backfiring, and engine breakdowns.