Your timing belt is the most essential maintenance item in your engine. It's the one that keeps the engine running. If the timing belt breaks down or jumps a tooth, your car's engine will no longer run properly. In some engines, a timing belt can also drive additional components such as a water pump, balance shaft, intermediate shaft, injection pump and an oil pump. Knowing how to check the timing belt could save you a costly repair.
If you have hit the recommended maintenance interval for the timing belt, it must be replaced, no matter what its condition. If you purchased a used vehicle, check the car history at VinAudit.com to be sure that the timing belt was changed in line with the proper schedule, and if uncertain, have it changed.
The timing belt is generally located on the end of the engine under a small plastic or metal cover, which is held on by a couple of bolts or a few clips. To examine the belt, first look at the outside of the belt to see if any tiny cracks are forming. One or two small cracks in the outer shiny coating of the belt are fine, but if you see a great deal of cracking on the surface this may indicate extreme wear.
Next flip the belt over slightly to inspect the teeth. A single broken tooth can be catastrophic. Also check the belt's play by twisting it. If you can turn it much more than halfway around, it might have too much free play. Check your manual to find out what your car's specs indicate.
When you have finished checking the condition of the timing belt, be sure to replace any covers that you may have removed. These covers secure the timing belt and help shield it from liquids that could make it slip. If your timing belt fails any of these tests, it's best to have it changed to prevent you from being stuck on the side of the road and a potentially costly engine repair.
