Protect Your Engine With Professional Timing Belt and Chain Service

Most modern vehicles use an overhead camshaft that accurately times intake and exhaust valve opening and closing events to keep a vehicle’s engine cylinders filling efficiently and completely for good power, fuel efficiency, and low emissions.

The camshaft is driven by a chain or fiber belt. While a steel chain, running in oil, can easily last the life of the vehicle, the belt needs replacement at recommended intervals. Most vehicle manufacturers recommend belt replacement somewhere between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. A belt has a core of aramid fiber covered with rubber and other materials. While the belt is as strong as steel, it is perpetually bending around the crankshaft and the camshaft sprockets. Like an inexpensive steel coat hanger, when bent back and forth many times, it will eventually become brittle and break.

Camshaft timing belts are engineered to last well beyond the mileage at which vehicle manufacturers recommend replacement. However, for every belt, there is a finite life. The actual life can vary with many factors, such as average engine speed, ambient temperature, and others.

When the belt comes to the end of its life, it will break. When it does, the camshaft stops turning. A vehicle designed with a non-interference engine can survive this. In an interference engine, the pistons will collide with valves that remain open, severely damaging the engine. An engine that has been damaged in this way is still reparable. So, if you are told by a shop that the valves are damaged and you need a new engine, let ASR diagnose your vehicle. We may save you time and money.

To avoid this type of failure, plan to change the timing belt at the mileage interval recommended by the manufacturer. ASR can provide belt replacement at a reasonable price, compared to the dealership. We can also schedule a fast turnaround to get your vehicle back on the road quickly with additional confidence that your timing belt replacement is done correctly and will last until the next timing belt replacement interval.

Reach out to us to schedule your timing belt inspection or replacement.

Valve Timing

The camshaft controls the opening and closing of the engine’s valves. It is synchronized with the engine by a long chain or fiber belt that is driven by and timed to the engine’s crankshaft. Both methods of camshaft drive must be properly guided and tensioned so that timing is stable and that the chain or belt is unable to jump sprockets, causing faulty camshaft timing.

Both camshaft drive methods use guides that employ mechanical or hydraulic tensioners. These camshaft drive mechanisms are normally reliable and often provide hundreds of thousands of miles of dependable use. The belt or chain is stabilized and tensioned by guides that are often made of plastic. Occasionally, through many engine heat cycles, the plastic embrittles or the tensioner fails, allowing the chain or belt to develop slack, which drastically changes cam timing, leading to poor running. The chain or belt may jump drive sprockets, causing noise and sometimes damage to valves.

Many shops don’t bother to diagnose such problems but simply recommend engine replacement. Automotive Service and Repair (ASR) can quickly diagnose camshaft drive and valve timing problems. In many cases, we can rectify the failed parts inside the timing case, thereby adding hundreds of thousands of useful miles to the life of the vehicle. So, if you have experienced such an engine problem and have been told you need a new engine, ASR may be able to save money and time with a reliable, guaranteed repair without an engine replacement.

Most modern vehicles use variable valve timing: an electronic and hydraulic system controlled by the engine control module (ECM). Depending on engine speed, load, throttle position, and other factors, the ECM uses mathematical algorithms to advance or retard the opening and closing of valves to fill the cylinders as completely as possible under any operating condition. This process improves power and fuel mileage and reduces emissions.

The ECM controls solenoid valves that regulate engine oil pressure used to advance or retard camshaft timing. The most common issue in this system is the solenoid valves that, like all electrical coils, sometimes fail. When this happens, the camshaft timing will be set to a default value that will allow the vehicle to be driven, though at reduced efficiency. The check engine light will be illuminated. ASR can diagnose this kind of problem using an on-board diagnostic scan tool to locate the problem solenoid valve. The part is relatively easy to access and replace.

Signs You May Need Timing Belt or Chain Service

Timing belt failure can result in severe engine damage, particularly in interference engines where pistons collide with open valves. Recognizing warning signs early protects your investment and prevents costly repairs.

• Vehicle has reached the manufacturer's recommended replacement interval
• Unusual ticking or rattling sounds from the engine
• Visible cracks or fraying on the timing belt
• Engine misfires or runs roughly
• Oil leaks near the timing cover
• Vehicle fails to start
• Decreased fuel efficiency and power output

Addressing these symptoms promptly can save you from extensive engine damage. Preventive replacement is always more affordable than emergency repairs.

Why You Need Timing Belt and Chain Service

Timing belts contain aramid fiber cores covered with rubber that endure constant bending around crankshaft and camshaft sprockets. Like metal bent repeatedly, belts eventually become brittle and break. Factors such as engine speed, ambient temperature, and operating conditions affect belt longevity, making scheduled replacement essential for engine protection.

• Prevent catastrophic engine failure from broken belts
• Avoid costly valve and piston damage in interference engines
• Maintain optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency
• Ensure reliable vehicle operation
• Protect your investment with preventive maintenance
• Comply with manufacturer maintenance schedules

Regular timing belt replacement according to manufacturer specifications prevents unexpected breakdowns. Proactive maintenance is significantly less expensive than engine reconstruction after belt failure.

Why Choose ASR Automotive Service & Repair

ASR Automotive Service & Repair delivers accurate diagnosis and correct repairs for timing belt and chain service. Our capable, well-trained technicians provide efficient service with straightforward pricing and fast turnaround times.

• Accurate diagnosis of timing system issues
• Capable, well-trained techs working on your car
• Straightforward pricing compared to dealership rates
• Stand behind our work
• Fast turnaround to minimize downtime
• Staff trained in repairs common to Mercedes-Benz vehicles
• Staff trained in repairs common to Chrysler vehicles
• Free second opinion on timing belt damage
• On-site estimates
• Resolving the problem that brought you to the shop

We can save you time and money by accurately diagnosing valve damage instead of recommending unnecessary engine replacement. Schedule your timing belt service today.

Contact Us

Timing belt failure can cause expensive engine damage. Our team provides reliable timing belt and chain services to protect your vehicle.

Contact us today to schedule your timing belt inspection or replacement.