Can the timing belt of the new Santana last for 200,000 kilometers?
3 Answers
No. The original timing belt is generally recommended to be replaced when the vehicle has traveled between 80,000 to 100,000 kilometers. When the timing belt exceeds 100,000 kilometers, it should be inspected regularly to avoid unnecessary issues. If the car's timing belt reaches 200,000 kilometers, it should be replaced; otherwise, the risk of belt breakage may increase. Additional information: 1. Function of the timing belt: The timing belt ensures that during engine operation, the piston's stroke (up and down movement), the opening and closing of the valves (timing), and the ignition sequence (timing) remain synchronized under the connection of the timing system. The timing belt is a crucial component of the engine's valve train system, connecting with the crankshaft and maintaining a specific gear ratio to ensure accurate intake and exhaust timing. 2. Regular inspection: The timing belt is a rubber component. As the engine's operating hours increase, the timing belt and its related components, such as the timing belt tensioner pulley, timing belt tensioner, and water pump, will experience wear or aging. Therefore, manufacturers strictly require that for any engine equipped with a timing belt, the timing belt and its accessories must be replaced at specified intervals.
I run an auto repair shop and have seen many cases involving the new Santana. The manufacturer's manual recommends replacing the timing belt between 100,000 to 180,000 kilometers, but in reality, pushing it to 200,000 is risky. Rubber components degrade and crack over time, especially on vehicles that frequently drive at high speeds. Last week, a Santana's belt snapped at 170,000 kilometers, bending the valves directly, and the engine repair cost over 5,000 yuan. I suggest inspecting the belt teeth for cracks and ensuring the idler pulley rotates smoothly at 150,000 kilometers, and take the opportunity to replace the water pump as well—labor costs several hundred yuan each time you dismantle it, so don't skimp on the parts cost. By the way, vehicles converted to run on natural gas experience faster belt degradation and should have their belts replaced even earlier.
I've driven a Santana for eight years as a ride-hailing driver, so I'm very familiar with this issue. The original Gates belt is indeed durable, but don't take the 200,000 km claim at face value. In northern winters at -20°C, the rubber becomes brittle, while summer engine bay temperatures of 80-90°C accelerate aging. My belt showed cracks on the inner side at 160,000 km, and the tensioner started making rattling noises. I recommend having a mechanic inspect the belt condition with an endoscope every 50,000 km. If the cord layer becomes visible, replace it immediately. Cars with modified headlights need extra attention—voltage fluctuations can affect the crankshaft position sensor, indirectly causing belt tooth skipping.
