The engine in your car has many moving components that allow it to function, and one of the most significant is the timing belt. This auto part rotates your engine’s camshaft and crankshaft, allowing the cylinders to fire at the correct time. However, the rubber material can break due to the considerable wear and tear it faces every day. Below are a few indications that this is happening so that you can fix it promptly.

When Should You Replace the Timing Belt?

1. Difficulty Starting

For the engine to ignite correctly, your timing belt must engage the camshaft and crankshaft to allow fuel to flow into the reservoir. However, if the belt is faulty, your engine cannot turn on, preventing you from moving at all. This also often alludes to other engine damage aside from a snapped belt, so have a mechanic inspect the vehicle thoroughly if you experience this problem.

2. Screeching or Ticking Sounds

If you hear a high-pitched screeching sound from when you’re accelerating, braking, or idling, there is likely an issue with the timing belt. This happens when the belt is loose or wearing out, as it can no longer rotate easily. This forces the rubber to scrape against the metal, creating the noise.

Alternatively, if you hear a ticking noise from the engine, this means the timing belt does not have the proper alignment. Thus, the cylinders in the engine cannot react correctly.

3. Engine Misfires

A worn timing belt may also affect the overall power that your engine has. When it’s not functioning properly, the valve openings may open or close too quickly, throwing off the combustion reaction. For the engine to function properly, it must have the exact mixture of fuel and oxygen to drive the cylinders. Without this, you may notice that the vehicle stutters as you try to accelerate.

4. Low Oil Pressure

If the cover for your timing belt cracks or breaks, motor oil can leak out and pool under the engine bay. This usually happens when the bolts that hold the cover closed loosen over time, or when the gasket between the cover and engine block is not sitting properly in its brackets. If you see your oil pressure drop, replace the timing belt immediately before the engine fails.

If you need a new timing belt, contact Lindale Auto Parts in New Richmond, OH. With an inventory spanning over 16 acres, the salvage yard has high-quality used auto parts for domestic and foreign vehicles. Their ASE-certified technicians are also on hand to answer any questions that you may have. They even provide a 90-day guarantee with every auto part purchase. For more information about their services, visit the website. Call (513) 797-6707 to speak to a team member.