Timing Belts & Timing Chains – University Place, Tacoma WA

Deep under the hood of your car you have either a timing belt or a timing chain. A timing belt or chain is a critical part of your vehicle, but most are difficult to get access to without having to remove some components of the engine.

If the timing belt breaks or becomes loose while driving, your vehicle will immediately quit running and you will have to be towed in. There’s usually no warning signs when a timing belt is about to break, but once it breaks you’re broken down and its possible there could be some serious engine damage.

Timing belts are usually made up of rubber which becomes brittle with use or becomes weak over time.

Timing belts should be replaced at the manufactures recommended distance or time periods (anywhere from 60,000 miles to 105,000 miles ) to keep from resulting in belt failure which could end up in catastrophic engine failure, especially in interference engines. Be sure to check your owners manual for recommended replacement, not sure where your owners manual is? No problem, just give us a call and we will find out for you!

Timing chains however are made up of metal and are a lot stronger and typically last a lot longer than timing belts.

A timing belt replacement however is not cheap, but you’ll pay less in the long run if you plan on keeping your car, truck or SUV for years to come, making sure your timing belt in good shape then becomes an investment. 

Here at McCabe’s it is our mission to keep you informed on what’s going on under the hood of your car. We are always on your side and understand car repair is not cheap ,and can always help you prioritize future repairs based on your budget and what’s necessary. Stop by and visit us at our auto repair shop located within the Greater Tacoma Area! 

 * The image is of a 2013 Ford Flex with a timing chain driven water pump.

Give us a call today to schedule your appointment with one of our specialists!

Call us: (253) 565-5173