The timing belt is produced from polymer composites (chloroprene rubber and neoprene) and some reinforcing agents like glass fiber netting. It is almost silent when it works and creates less resistance and less mechanical losses compared to chains. Chains have non0uniform circumferential velocity and they used a lot in the past.
In modern times almost all vehicles use timing belts because they run completely smoothly, they have smoother power transfer and they relieve the dynamic loading of the cooling system. The main disadvantage of timing belts is their reliability.
Although these belts are really durable and they rarely start failing, when this situation happens you can expect a real disaster. Malfunction of timing belt leads to a collision of valves and clips, then the destruction of the bearing, connecting roads and sometimes camshaft can be damaged to. To put it in simple words – you can expect a serious breakdown.
This is why many people are replacing the timing belt after certain mileage (usually between 40.000 and 55.000 miles). However, it is good to know that there are some signs that can indicate that your timing belt is failing.
Indicator lights
Modern vehicles come with indicator lights that can warn owners about any problem. Many modern vehicles have indicator light that can signal that something is wrong with the timing belt. Remember that this is a very serious issue and you should not ignore this warning. If you notice that the indicator is on (or in some cases blinking) you should immediately go to your automotive repair shop. Timing belt replacement is not very complex operation and you should not pay much for this service. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you should try to do this on your own because only a professional repair shop can guarantee that the timing belt is replaced in the right way.
Squeaking noise under the hood on start up
It is very important to check the all the indicators before you start your car. But another important thing that you should do is to check whether some sounds occur when you start the vehicle. Squeaking sounds are a clear sign that something is not right. These sounds are usually produced by the belts including timing belts. In case this is a one-time occurrence you should not worry much but if the problem continues for several times in a row then you should definitely go to your automotive repair shop.
Visual damage
As previously mentioned, accessing the timing belt under the hood is not really difficult. Check the specification of your vehicle and find it. If your timing belt is failing you should notice that right away. For example, signs of oil dots and other liquids are clear signs that something is not right. Timing belt that is in a good shape should be clean and without any stains.
Of course, it is always a good idea to ask your mechanic at Signal Garage in St Paul MO to check the timing belt when you are in their repair shop also! Contact us today.