Timing Belts

The function of the timing belt is to control the water pump, keeping your vehicle’s engine cool. Continuous exposure to heat, vibration, and harmful chemicals make the timing belt and water pump among the most vulnerable parts in your vehicle. If belt breakage keeps the water pump from functioning, the result can be a breakdown and possible destruction of the engine. To promote the safety of your car or truck, it is important to have the timing belt and water pump replaced regularly. Your owner’s manual will provide the specific schedule for your vehicle. Typically it is recommended that the timing belt and water pump be checked every three years or every 30,000 miles.

Symptoms your timing belt may need service:

• Difficulty in starting
• Shaking
• Noticeable fluid loss from under car
• Excessive exhaust

Our expert technicians will check and replace as necessary:

• Timing belt
• Water pump
• Idler pulley
• Tensioner

If you suspect your vehicle may have a timing belt or water pump problem, or are due for preventative service, let our professionals perform our complete inspection. Contact us today to set an appointment.

Is it advisable to replace the water pump when replacing the timing belt?

Water pump and timing belt involve the same basic labor. It is often recommended that they be done together, even if they are both not in need of immediate replacement. Since the labor costs are usually more than the part, it is advantageous to take care of everything at once and incur only one labor charge.

The service life among water pumps is pretty consistent, so replacement is advised after a prescribed number of miles or length of time, per your owner’s manual. When a water pump fails it is often without warning and results in a severe overheating problem. If the vehicles temperature gauge reaches the red zone, it is vital to have the timing belt and water pump serviced immediately. If coolant is not pumped through the radiator your engine can quickly become seriously damaged.