What a timing belt does
Your timing belt, or timing chain on some engines, keeps the crankshaft and camshafts turning in step so the valves open and close at exactly the right moment. When it is in good shape you never think about it.
When a belt breaks, the engine stops right away. On many engines, called interference engines, the pistons can then hit the open valves. That can bend valves and damage pistons, which turns a planned maintenance job into major engine repair. Replacing the belt on schedule costs a fraction of that.
When to replace your timing belt
Every manufacturer sets a replacement interval by miles and by age, and it varies a lot from engine to engine. Rubber ages even when the car sits, so a low-mileage car can still be due by years. Your owner’s manual lists your interval, or we can look it up for you. On many cars it falls around a major service, so it often lines up with your 30K, 60K or 90K scheduled maintenance.
A timing belt rarely gives much warning, but a few things are worth calling us about: a ticking or slapping noise from the front of the engine, oil leaking near the belt cover, or a car that cranks but will not start. If you bought a used car with no record of the belt being done, treat it as due.
What a proper timing belt job includes
Getting to the timing belt means taking a lot of the front of the engine apart. Most of the cost is that labor, so we replace the parts that wear alongside the belt while everything is open:
- The timing belt itself
- Tensioner and idler pulleys
- Camshaft and crankshaft seals, if they are seeping oil
- The water pump, when the belt drives it, even if it is not leaking yet
- Fresh coolant and a check of the drive belts and hoses
Doing it this way means you are not paying the same labor twice when an old pump or tensioner fails a year later.
Timing chains
Many newer engines use a timing chain instead of a belt. Chains are built to last much longer, but they are not always lifetime parts. A chain can stretch and its guides and tensioners can wear, especially when oil changes get stretched out. A rattle for a few seconds on a cold start or a check engine light for timing are the usual signs. Regular oil changes are the best way to protect a chain.
What affects the cost
The price of a timing belt job depends mostly on the engine. A four-cylinder with easy access takes far less time than a V6 or V8 tucked sideways under the hood. Whether the water pump is belt driven and which extra parts are worn also matter. We give you a clear estimate before we start and work with your timeline and budget, and we tell you honestly if your belt still has life left.
Book your timing belt replacement
Call us at 425-420-1630 or request an appointment below. We are at the back of Bear Creek Plaza near Hwy 522, open Monday to Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Saturdays by appointment. Use our early morning and late night key drop box if that is easier. Driving in from Bothell? See our timing belt page for Bothell drivers.