8 Signs your Timing Belt Needs Replacing

By Farzana Chaumoo

Signs of a worn out timing belt.

Timing belts can be a costly expense, which is why many owners are reluctant to replace it until something happens. However, many owners don’t realise that this neglect could result in more costly damages to the engine and components. Also, when the timing belt does fail, your vehicle will not be operational and you’ll be left stranded.

Preventative measures are always better than reactive so here are some things your mechanic will look for when you take your timing belt for inspection:

1. Material Loss

Much like tyre wear, belt wear loses traction as you lose grip, making the timing belt slip. It is more likely to occur during high load use such as pulling a trailer/caravan, or in wet weather.

2. Belt Abrasion

Belt Abrasion usually occurs when there is bearing failure, excessive heat or there is a tensioner or pulley misalignment. Mechanics would notice the problem when the belt’s edges have been worn down to the filaments inside.

3. Cracking

Cracking on the timing belt is self-explanatory. A mechanic can inspect the belt and advise accordingly. A lot of cracks indicates excessive wear, and if your engine is fitted with a neoprene timing belt, it should be attended to immediately.

4. Glazing

When the timing belt has a shiny or glossy appearance on the underside, the belt is likely to have gone stiff and won’t provide the flexibility needed. Mechanics check this by means of attempting to put an indent on the surface of the belt, if it doesn’t leave a mark then the belt requires replacement.

5. Pilling

One of the reasons for belt noise and excess vibration is due to an aging timing belt. The material the belt loses can build up loosely in the rib cross-sections and cause that to happen. Mechanics will also check the accessory brake pulleys for any additional material build up as they may also require replacement.

6. Hydroplaning

The belt will hydroplane on water between the belt and pulleys when water cannot be dispersed away from the warn belt and pulleys. This then results in a loss of power to engine accessories.

7. Elongation

Loss in material will change the effective length of the belt, which then moves the tensioner beyond its take-up limit. Overall tension is then reduced which ultimately affects the overall performance.

8. Misalignment

Misalignment is a type of wear that indicates the tensioners internal components may have failed. Signs that the tensioner has failed is a high level of noise, vibration and the production of excessive heat.

Find out here how to change a timing belt.