(Timing Belt)
May 4, 2025
You may have heard about an important part of your vehicle's engine called a timing belt, and many know that if that belt breaks, it can cause some very serious engine problems.
Not all vehicles have them, and the ones that do generally have smaller engines. The timing belt keeps the engine synchronized so that every time a spark plug fires, the crankshaft, camshaft, pistons, and valves are all working together. Timing belts will eventually have to be replaced, and most vehicle manufacturers recommend when that should be. Typically, it's around every 60,000-100,000 miles, or 100,000-160,000 km. It's a good idea to stick to your vehicle's schedule or be alert for signs that the timing belt may be failing prematurely.
Some of those symptoms? Maybe your engine won't even turn over when you try firing it up. You might hear a ticking or banging sound under the hood. Perhaps you spot an oil leak or notice the engine misfiring. If any of those are happening to your vehicle, we strongly advise you to bring it in to us so we can have a technician see what's causing the issue.
Again, if your timing belt breaks, it can cause serious, expensive engine damage to valves and pistons. It is far better to have the timing belt replaced before it breaks.
Replacing it is fairly involved, and other associated parts, such as the water pump, thermostat, tensioner, and idler pulleys may be replaced at the same time. That way, your timing belt is more likely to last another 60,000-100,000 miles/100,000-160,000 km without any problems.
Timing belts are being used in fewer vehicles, with more and more using timing chains since they last longer. If you're wondering if your vehicle has one, contact our service adviser who can check. Maybe it's time to schedule a timing belt replacement to keep your vehicle's engine parts working in harmony as they should.
Sterling Tire & Auto
34701 Van Dyke Rd
Sterling Heights, Michigan 48312
586-264-7775
Need Service?
More articles from Sterling Tire & Auto

Mercury Rising (Hot Weather Vehicle Concerns)
June 29, 2025
The heat is on, and your vehicle takes a beating when it is. Several of your vehicle's systems are under extra stress in hot weather, so here are a few to make sure are getting the care and maintenance they need. It makes sense that the cooling system is one to make sure is in top shape. Vehicl... More

I Want a New Vehicle. Or Do I? (Vehicle Maintenance Payoffs)
June 22, 2025
Spring is a peak season for vehicle sales; companies aggressively market new models and offer all sorts of incentives. So you may be tempted to buy a shiny new beauty. But should you? If you've regularly maintained the vehicle you're driving now, you probably don't NEED a new one. Even if your... More

Prepare Your Windshield for Winter (Wiper Blades and Fluid for Freezing Temperatures)
June 15, 2025
Winter and freezing temperatures present challenges for different parts of your vehicles. For example, winter tires give you better traction on snow. But some parts of your vehicle that may need special attention for winter are your windshield wipers. You may have found yourself in the middle o... More