Timing Belt Replacement
Also called timing belt change
The timing belt keeps the crankshaft and camshaft turning together so the valves open at the right moment. On most engines sold here, a snapped belt lets pistons strike valves, turning a planned job into cylinder head work. The belt has a replacement interval in both kilometres and years, and rubber ages even on a car that is driven little. We replace the belt with its tensioner, idlers and usually the water pump, since access is already open.
Signs you need this
- The service interval in kilometres or years has been reached
- The belt is cracked, glazed or has missing teeth on inspection
- A rattling or whining noise from the timing cover area
- Oil contamination on the belt from a leaking seal
- You have no record of the belt ever being changed
Not all of these have to be present, and one of them on its own can mean something else entirely. That is what the diagnosis is for.
What the job includes
- Timing marks checked and recorded before the old belt is removed
- New timing belt, tensioner and idler pulleys as a set
- Water pump inspected and usually replaced while access is open
- Cam and crank seals checked for leaks and replaced if weeping
- Tension set to specification and the engine turned by hand to verify timing
- Road test and a note of the next due interval
How we do it
Confirm belt or chain
We check the engine code first, because the same model can be sold with a belt in one version and a chain in another.
Set and mark timing
The engine is brought to the timing position and all marks are checked and recorded before anything is loosened.
Replace as a set
Belt, tensioner and idlers are replaced together, with the water pump changed while access is already open.
Verify by hand
The engine is turned through by hand at least twice and marks rechecked before the starter is ever used.
Run, test and record
The engine is started, listened to, road tested, and the new interval is written down for your records.
How we work
The same on every job, which is why we can write it down.
Diagnosis before quote
We find the fault first. A price given over the phone for a noise nobody has heard is a guess.
The price is agreed first
You approve the work and the cost before a spanner is picked up. Extra work means another call.
Parts you can check
We tell you whether a part is genuine, OEM, aftermarket or used, and what each one costs.
Old parts returned
Ask and we will hand back whatever we replaced. It is the simplest proof that the job was done.
Book timing belt replacement
Fill this in and a person will call you back to confirm the time and the price. Only your name and one way to reach you are required.
You send this
Takes a minute. No payment, no obligation.
We call you
To confirm the car, the time and the location.
Tell us the car and the symptom
We will arrange a mechanic at your location, or a slot at the nearest workshop. No payment until the price is agreed.