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Parts Glossary |
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Glossary of Automotive Components/Terms
A toothed, rubber belt that turns the camshaft (a device that opens and closes the engine valves) and keeps it in time with the crankshaft. This belt is only used on engines with overhead camshafts. Some overhead camshaft engines may have a timing chain instead of a belt though. The advantage of a belt over a chain is a quieter engine and less expense in manufacturing. Timing belts are usually much cheaper to replace than a chain, although a chain will last much longer if the engine is maintained properly. Recommended replacement intervals for timing belts are usually 60,000 - 105,000 miles depending on the vehicle.
Timing belts are usually not visible without removing the front cover on the engine and an inspection of the timing belt will not usually reveal the remaining life of the belt. If the belt breaks the engine will not run and it's possible that the engine valves will be bent, causing expensive engine damage.
