Most gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles manufactured today utilize a reinforced, toothed timing belt to deliver power from the crankshaft to the camshafts at the proper revolutions per minute (RPMs) necessary to create power to move the vehicle. When this delivery of power is precisely timed, the camshafts inside the engine are able to open and close the intake and exhaust valves in perfect alignment with the movement and positioning of the pistons. 

If the timing belt becomes worn, the synchronized movements of the camshafts can begin to falter and affect the performance of the engine. If not replaced, worn timing belts can break suddenly, leaving the vehicle's engine unable to start and run. 

Recognizing signs of timing belt wear

Most passenger vehicle manufacturers suggest replacing engine timing belts regularly as a proactive measure to help avoid more serious auto repair issues due to worn or broken timing belts. Vehicle owners who have not taken this advice or those that have purchased a used vehicle without the benefit of reliable service records can benefit from learning to recognize the signs of timing belt wear. 

If the car is equipped with a working check engine light, it can help drivers know when a timing belt is becoming worn and allow the engine to slip out of time. Other signs include sudden changes in how the engine starts and runs, including: 

• unusually hard starts or noticing that the engine misfires during the starting process
• rough idling and acceleration 
• loss of engine power and performance
• the development of noticeable ticking sounds when idling

While many of the signs of timing belt wear can also mimic other auto repair issues, they should never be ignored. Timing belts that are not replaced when worn are subject to break at any time and typically cause extensive internal engine damage. 

Becoming proactive about timing belt replacement 

Timing belt failures are a common problem, especially in higher mileage vehicles. Drivers who want to avoid experiencing a timing belt failure and the resulting expense of a major engine repair can choose to have their car's timing belt evaluated at regular intervals. Auto repair technicians can perform an inspection of your car's timing belt by removing the protective housing to expose a portion of the belt. During this inspection, the technician looks for visual signs of wear, including cracks or splits in the belt surface and missing teeth. If wear issues are found, replacing it immediately can help to avoid more serious repair issues. 

To learn more about your car's timing belt or schedule replacement, contact a reputable auto repair service in your area.