A cambelt, also known as a timing belt, serves as a crucial component within a car’s engine system. Its primary function involves synchronizing various essential motor parts, thereby ensuring precise timing and smooth operational performance. Conversely, some vehicles feature a timing chain instead of a belt. Unlike belts being made from rubber, chains consist of metal links, rendering them more robust and longer-lasting. While timing chains generally have greater longevity compared to belts, occasional instances of chain failure do occur due to poor maintenance.
Why should I maintain my cambelt?
Maintaining a cambelt is a task that often lingers in the minds of car owners, sparking numerous inquiries about when and how the cambelt should be replaced.
This critical aspect of vehicle maintenance prompts a common question among motorists: when is the right time to address the cambelt (or timing chain for that matter)?
Given the significant impact a cambelt failure can have on the engine’s performance, it’s essential to understand the importance of timely replacements and thorough maintenance practices. Delving into the realm of cambelt maintenance reveals a myriad of considerations that can influence the longevity and reliability of your vehicle. Factors such as mileage, driving conditions, and manufacturer recommendations all play a crucial role in determining the appropriate timing for cambelt replacement.
Let’s take a look at some recent work we have done on a cambelt failure
Despite the appearance of a fully functioning cambelt from the top, it has actually shredded a few teeth and slipped out of time. Luckily for this customer, after thoroughly inspecting the engine no further damage or wear was caused, we replaced the cambelt same-day and the customer left happy!
Typically snapped or slipped cambelts we have seen (and dealt with) in the past, have ended in catastrophic damage to the engine. With the most common damage being bent valves due to the pistons colliding with them, this usually leads to the engine being rebuilt, or the car being scrapped if not economical to repair!
When should I replace my cambelt?
Typically, these belts require replacement within a specific mileage range, often falling between 40,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations and the car model.
AA recommend replacing the cambelt between 40,000 miles and 100,000 miles, or 4+ years. It’s crucial to adhere to these guidelines, as failure to replace a worn-out cambelt can lead to catastrophic engine damage and costly repairs.
On the other hand, for cars with lower mileage, it is generally advised to replace the cambelt every four to five years, given that the rubber material of the belt can degrade over time due to exposure to heat, cold, and engine fluids. This periodic replacement ensures the optimal functioning of the engine and reduces the risk of unexpected belt failure.
If you are worried about the condition of your cambelt, or you are simply unsure, Let NS Motor Diagnostics inspect your cambelt and advice you accordingly. Get your cambelt check by NS Motor Diagnostics today Cambelt Replacement Kidderminster