Timing Belts

The timing belt controls the water pump, which keeps your vehicle’s engine cool. Due to continuous exposure to heat, vibration, and harmful chemicals, the timing belt and water pump are among the most vulnerable parts in your vehicle. If a belt breaks and the water pump doesn’t function, this can lead to a breakdown and possibly destruction of the engine. To ensure the safety of your car or truck, it is important to have the timing belt and water pump replaced regularly. While your owner’s manual will provide the specific schedule for your vehicle, it is usually recommended that the timing belt and water pump be checked every 30,000 miles or three years.

Symptoms your timing belt may need service:

• Shaking
• Difficulty in starting
• Noticeable fluid loss from under car
• Excessive exhaust

Our expert technicians will check and replace as necessary:

• Timing belt
• Water pump
• Idler pulley
• Tensioner

If you suspect your vehicle may have a timing belt or water pump problem, or are due for preventative service, let our professionals perform our complete inspection. Contact us today to set an appointment.

Is it advisable to replace the water pump when replacing the timing belt?

Water pump and timing belt involve the same basic labor. It is often recommended that they be done together, even if they are both not in need of immediate replacement. Since the labor costs are usually more than the part, it is advantageous to take care of everything at once and incur only one labor charge.

The service life among water pumps is pretty consistent, so replacement is advised after a prescribed number of miles or length of time, per your owner’s manual. When a water pump fails it is often without warning and results in a severe overheating problem. If the vehicles temperature gauge reaches the red zone, it is vital to have the timing belt and water pump serviced immediately. If coolant is not pumped through the radiator your engine can quickly become seriously damaged.