How long does it take to replace the timing belt?

The timing belt is one of the most important parts of your vehicle. Indeed, it allows the synchronization of many parts of the engine and ensures the preservation of the latter by avoiding the shock between the pistons and the valves. In this article, we answer all the questions you may have about changing the timing belt on your car!

🚗 After how many km do you have to change a timing belt?

The timing belt is, like many parts, a wear part of your vehicle. However, she has a long lifespan and its change is quite expensive whatever the model of your car. On average, its replacement should be carried out every 100 to 000 kilometers.

This variation in frequency is explained in particular by the type of engine your vehicle is equipped with. For example, the timing belt is used more on a gasoline engine than on a diesel engine. Thus, lhe petrol engine runs faster and offers a maximum life of 100 kilometers to your timing belt.

To find out the precise longevity of your timing belt, do not hesitate to bring your service book and leaf through it. The latter brings together all the recommendations of the manufacturer of your car.

⚠️ What are the symptoms of a timing belt to change?

The timing belt can be damaged before reaching its change interval. If this is the case, it will manifest itself by 4 main symptoms which are:

• Unusual sound is coming from the engine : it can take the form of a squeak or a squeak. When you hear it, it means that the timing belt no longer slides correctly on the tensioner roller. So she can be HS or just relaxed;
• The belt is damaged : If you visually observe the condition of your timing belt, you will notice cracks, cracks or even tears on its surface. There is no doubt that it needs to be changed quickly;
• Vibrations present : if they appear during your travels, this is a very worrying sign because they indicate an imminent rupture of the timing belt;
• Metallic sounds occur : you will hear them when the belt is broken, it is the pistons and the valves which clash strongly. It will be necessary to bring the vehicle to a stop as quickly as possible to avoid engine failure.

⏱️ How long does it take to change a timing belt?

Changing the timing belt is a rather complex operation and which can take a long time to achieve. As a rule, it requires between 2h30 and 5h30 working on your vehicle. This working time will depend on two main criteria:

1. Easy access to the timing belt : on certain vehicle models, it may be difficult to access and it will require the dismantling of several components;
2. The operator's level of expertise in automotive mechanics : if you call in a professional, the intervention will be faster than if you try to perform this operation yourself. Indeed, it is necessary to have a good level in automobile mechanics to embark on this type of maneuver.

Changing a timing belt is a rather tedious intervention because it requires changing the entire contents of delivery which contains : one timing belt new, one strap for accessories, water pump, tensioners and a can of coolant to drain it.

💸 How much does it cost to change the timing belt?

Changing the timing belt is an expensive operation because it requires a lot of working time. As a rule, it is billed between 350 euros vs 1 euros depending on the type of garage chosen and the model of your vehicle.

If you want to find the best quote to make this change, call our online garage comparator. In just a few clicks, you will have access to quotes from many garages around your home and can choose the one that meets your budget. In addition, you will be able to consult the opinions of other motorists on each of the garages in order to choose the one with the best reputation. This allows you to save money and save time by making an appointment online depending on your availability!

Changing a timing belt requires several hours of work and requires a great deal of care to replace all of the components of the timing kit. When your vehicle is no longer functioning correctly in the distribution system, do not wait for the symptoms to worsen over use and quickly go to a professional near you!