What is a Timing Belt?

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If the parts of your engine block are a band, the timing belt is the drummer. It keeps all the moving parts in sync. Let’s take a look at how timing belts work. Timing belts are also called cambelts and play a vital role in the function of your engine. They synchronize your crankshaft rotation and camshaft. This allows your valves to intake air and fuel, and exhaust it at a proper speed. This mixture of air and fuel vents from the valve and pushes the pistons down, which then ignite the mixture and cause your engine to combust at regular and controlled intervals. Needless to say, it’s one of the most important parts in your Honda, and needs to be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles.

Learn about the signs that it’s time to replace yours, as well as how much a timing belt is. Then, if you think you’re due for timing belt replacement near Chicago, explore our service specials and schedule an appointment at Valley Honda in Aurora!

How Much is a Timing Belt?

Now that you know what a timing belt is, let’s take a look at timing belt costs. If you wait too long to change your timing belt, it will break, the valves won’t open and close at the right time, and your pistons will be damaged. If this happens, you’ll need to spend at least $2,000 replacing your damaged valves, water pump and pistons. If you replace your timing belt before it breaks, you’ll only have to pay between $500 and $1,000. We recommend that Oswego drivers also replace their water pump when they replace their timing belt, even if their timing belt hasn’t broken. This is because water pumps generally have the same lifespan as a timing belt, and just like with the timing belt, you want to replace your water pump before it breaks down in order to avoid even more costly major repairs.

When to Replace Your Timing Belt

It’s helpful for Naperville drivers to know how often they should replace their timing belt. That said, it’s important to know the signs that your timing belt is wearing out, as it could happen earlier than anticipated. These are the major red flags that your timing belt is due for replacement:

• You hear a ticking sound coming from your engine
• Your acceleration sputters between 2000 – 4000 RPM
• Your engine has been misfiring
• Oil is leaking at the front of the motor
• Your hood is smoking or fuming

The Difference Between Timing Belts vs. Timing Chains

Timing chains have the same function as timing belts. Timing chains, however, are constructed with metal, and timing belts are made of reinforced rubber, which is softer and quieter. Timing belts are located outside of the engine, whereas timing chains are located inside the engine and transport oil around the interior of the engine in order to lubricate its moving parts.

Have More Questions About How Much a Timing Belt Is?

Now that you know what a timing belt is, how a timing belt works, and when to replace a timing belt, if you think you’re due for a timing belt replacement and want to discuss costs, give our Honda service garage in Aurora a call at (630) 851-5700. Valley Honda walk you through your options and ensure you get a competitively priced rate. In the meantime, take a look at our service tips for other helpful reads, including on tire rotation frequency and more!