What causes a timing belt to wear out faster?

Timing belts are incredibly unpredictable, making it very difficult to know when they will break or tear. There are several things that cause them to wear out faster.

Temperature changes

Company timing belt made from rubber. Rubber stretches when it heats up and then contracts when it cools down again. Extremely high and low temperatures can cause small cracks to form on the outer surface of the belt. This can result in a faster timing belt replacement. Storing your car in a garage instead of outside can help reduce the degree of temperature change that the timing belt is exposed to.

Find out the cost of replacing the timing belt

Oil leaks

Oil can interfere with the timing belt. It can get caught between the teeth of the belt and cause the belt to slip and slip, or even break completely. If you notice an oil leak from engine then you should see it as soon as possible as it can cause further damage if the timing belt comes off.

water leaks

Water leaks will have the same effect as oil leaks on a timing belt. The effect may be worsened if the escaping water has been mixed with antifreeze. If you notice that your vehicle is leaking water from an unusual location, contact your local mechanic to have it checked. This will prevent water from affecting the life of the timing belt.

Find out the cost of replacing the timing belt

Dry climate

Vehicles typically driven in countries with warm, dry climates often need timing belt replacement more frequently than vehicles driven in countries with more temperate climates. Dry air causes the rubber to become more brittle, which can cause the belt to crack or break. If you ride regularly in dry climates, you should check the belt more often than every 60,000 miles, just to be on the safe side.

old belts

Belts that were installed on older cars have angular trapezoidal teeth. The new belts have curved teeth that are more forgiving and wear less quickly. If you have a choice of which belt you can install on your car, always choose curved belts as they will last a lot longer.

I rarely drive

The belt can become stiff if the vehicle is not used very often and this can make it more fragile. Cars that are driven infrequently often need a timing belt replacement after less miles than cars that are driven regularly.

How much does it cost to replace a timing belt?

The timing belt is a little tricky to change as it is hard to get to in the engine. Therefore, the hourly rate in the garage greatly affects the final price. For an accurate quote for your specific vehicle, get your quotes here at Autobutler. You can then compare garage locations, reviews from other car owners, garage job descriptions, and of course price.

Car owners who compare timing belt prices on Autobutler have the potential to save an average of 21 percent, which equates to £101.

Find out the cost of replacing the timing belt

All about timing belt and cam belt

• Replacing the timing belt and timing
• What causes a timing belt to wear out faster?
• What is a timing belt (or cam belt)
• How to replace the timing belt
• Is it time to change the timing belt?
• What is a fan belt