Timing belt replacement

A smoothly working timing belt provides an even, flexible connection between the crankshaft and the camshaft. It handles valve opening in sync with the movement of the fitted pistons, and turns the camshaft at a speed matching the crankshaft's rotation period. A smoothly working camshaft lets the valves open in sync with the pistons' motion. Only then is the trouble-free operation of every mechanism in the vehicle guaranteed.

A reliable timing belt keeps the pistons and valves (where they share a block) from grinding against their seats, keeping the parts working smoothly and in complete harmony. As soon as the timing belt wears out or snaps, an expensive repair becomes unavoidable. Sure, you won't need any bodywork, but an engine overhaul will be a job for the service centre's staff.

Experienced drivers recommend changing the timing belt every 75,000 to 100,000 kilometres, to avoid unexpected breakdowns on the road. It's not always the case that inspecting the parts has to wait until the first signs of trouble show up. Checking the timing belt can be either scheduled or unplanned, since this mechanism can wear or loosen, causing the rubber to sit poorly and throwing off the valves and pistons, which shows up as significant expenses to fix the breakdown. Replacing a timing belt isn't like fixing a bumper — it can be done at home, given a certain amount of skill in car mechanics.

As statistics show, a timing belt replacement is accompanied by buying a new water pump in 90% of cases, even though there's no actual link between the two. Thanks to the convenient layout of all the car's parts, it's better to renew some worn mechanisms along the way, to keep the vehicle running trouble-free for years of use. Fixing the problem yourself requires a certain skill and comes down to installing every part correctly. Doing your own car repairs can save you a tidy sum, but it doesn't guarantee the mechanisms will keep running long-term in every unforeseeable situation.