Replacing a timing belt on your own can be tricky and is best left to a professional mechanic.
If you notice engine oil leaking from the timing belt cover or your car vibrating intensely, visit an auto repair shop ASAP.
But how much does a timing belt replacement cost?
Let’s find out the expenses involved, the critical function of the timing belt, and the key signs indicating it’s time for a replacement.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does a Timing Belt Replacement Cost?
- Is It Worth Replacing the Timing Belt?
- Signs You Need a Timing Belt Replacement
- How Often Should You Change the Timing Belt?
- What Does the Timing Belt Do?
- What’s the Difference between Timing Belts and Timing Chains?
How Much Does a Timing Belt Replacement Cost?
Here’s what you can expect to pay for a faulty timing belt:
A. Range
Installing a new timing belt may cost you somewhere between $400 to $1100.
This will include:
- Cost of parts: $100 to $350
- Cost of labor: $300 to $750
B. Factors Affecting Cost
The timing belt replacement cost varies depending on your vehicle model and the labor cost in your area.
Other factors influencing the timing belt replacement cost include:
- Vehicle make: The cost will differ depending on whether you own a Suzuki Swift, any car by the Honda Motor Company, Toyota Motor Corporation, or another brand.
- Quality of the replacement parts: An OEM timing belt will be more expensive than an aftermarket one.
- Warranty: A new timing belt with a longer warranty will require a higher upfront cost.
- Additional repair: Your mechanic will charge you for repairing any other damaged engine components, such as the cylinder head, engine valves, water pump, or oil pump. In such cases, your total bill can exceed $1100.
Is It Worth Replacing the Timing Belt?
Yes, a bad timing belt must be replaced immediately as it spells bad news for your engine.
Why?
Timing belt failure in vehicles with an interference engine can cause pistons to collide with valves and crack cylinder heads. In such engines, the valves and pistons occupy the same area in the cylinder at different times. If the timing is off, the pistons and valves can collide, causing damage.
In cars with a non-interference engine, a broken timing belt can cause the camshaft to stop rotating, preventing the engine from running.
Signs You Need a Timing Belt Replacement
A failing timing belt will show any of the following symptoms:
- Unusually high exhaust fumes
- Difficulty starting the car
- A high-pitched noise from under the hood
- Car shaking or vibrating
- Oil leakage near the timing belt cover
- Frequent engine misfires from skipping a gear on the camshaft or crankshaft
- Visible damage or wear on the timing belt
How Often Should You Change the Timing Belt?
Ideally, timing belts should be changed between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. It’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for your specific vehicle.
However, if your car shows signs of belt damage, have it inspected by a professional. In such cases, you may need to replace the timing belt kit earlier than recommended.
What Does the Timing Belt Do?
A timing belt synchronizes the movement of the crankshaft and camshaft(s), ensuring that the engine valves open and close at the correct intervals. This allows fuel to enter the engine and exhaust to exit, which powers your car by moving the pistons up and down.
By coordinating different parts of the engine, the timing belt ultimately makes your car’s wheels turn.
What’s the Difference between Timing Belts and Timing Chains?
A timing belt is made of rubber, whereas a timing chain is made of metal.
Additionally, a timing belt is found outside the engine, while a timing chain is located inside the engine, where it receives lubrication from engine oil.
Fix Your Broken Timing Belt with AutoNation Mobile Service
A faulty timing belt can cause significant engine damage, often necessitating additional services like oil pump and water pump replacement.
Hence, replacing the belt as soon as you notice any issues is crucial.
To get the proper fix and expert service, call AutoNation Mobile Service.
We’re a mobile auto repair and maintenance service available seven days a week. Our mobile mechanics can fix your bad timing belt right from your driveway!
Get a free quote online and book an appointment for timing belt replacement, battery replacement, brake repair, or any other auto services.