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The timing belt is one of the most crucial auto parts for a vehicle. When it is malfunctioning, the engine’s valves won’t be able to open and close at the proper times, leading to issues with the cylinder’s intake and exhaust strokes. However, this piece can also wear down over time. If you notice any of the following issues with your vehicle, the belt may need to be replaced before bigger problems develop.

How to Know If Your Timing Belt Is Failing

1. Illuminated Check Engine Light

Modern vehicles are designed to self-diagnose potential auto part issues and provide an advanced warning before they become catastrophic. When the timing belt starts to fail, the check engine light on your dashboard will come on.

A failing belt hurts the engine’s performance and increases emissions. If it’s not replaced, the engine starts to overheat and can break down.

2. Loss of Power

The timing belt has teeth that grip the gears as it rotates the engine’s moving parts. When the belt is failing, the teeth can’t grip the gears correctly. This causes the engine to slip gears and stall.

The belt can also jump a tooth, which causes the vehicle to experience temporary loss of power. This is usually accompanied by rough idling when the car isn’t in motion.

3. Ticking Sound

If you hear a ticking or clicking noise emanating from the engine, you should have the timing belt examined. The belt is attached to the engine’s cam and crankshaft through a series of pulleys, and it rotates around a track when the engine is in operation. When it starts to fail, the tension that holds it in place is loosened, and it will hit nearby parts as it rotates, creating these noises.

4. Engine Smoke

Auto PartsThe engine’s cylinders have holes on the top of them to allow exhaust to escape and air to get inside for the combustion process. When the belt is functioning properly, it times the opening and closing of these holes perfectly. If it’s failing, the timing is thrown off, and excessive amounts of exhaust will escape the system at once.

5. Failure to Turn Over

Once the belt has become completely broken, the engine won’t be able to start. When you turn the key, the starter motor will engage, but the crank and shaft won’t be operational. This is because the engine won’t be getting the oxygen it needs to ignite and start the combustion process that powers the vehicle.

 

If you’re experiencing issues with your vehicle’s timing belt, turn to the experts at You Save Auto Repair. As one of the premier auto parts providers in Covington, KY, they offer top-of-the-line service at a fraction of the cost of local competitors. They’ll diagnose engine problems and handle all of the repairs so you can get back on the road quickly and safely. Visit their website to learn more, or call (859) 360-3465 to schedule an appointment.
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