How many kilometers should the Corolla's belt be replaced?
2 Answers
Generally, the lower range is replacement at 60,000 to 70,000 kilometers; the higher range is replacement of the timing belt at 80,000 to 100,000 kilometers. Precautions for replacing the car belt are as follows: 1. The timing belt cannot be judged by the rubber surface. If it breaks, it's because the internal reinforcement cords continuously stretch during use, and once they exceed the stretching limit, they break. The timing belt should be replaced upon reaching its service cycle, even if it hasn't broken yet, because a stretched belt leads to inaccurate timing, affecting engine performance. 2. If there is a fault with the timing belt, there are usually warning signs, such as abnormal engine noises. Especially when approaching (or reaching) the specified replacement mileage, extra attention should be paid to whether the engine produces abnormal noises. It is recommended to replace the belt in advance as it approaches the specified replacement time to avoid accidents or engine damage caused by belt breakage during use.
I remember my Corolla had reached 150,000 kilometers and was still running on the original belt. When I took it for inspection, the mechanic said it had cracked and urged me to replace it immediately, recommending a change at 100,000 kilometers. Belt aging can easily lead to breakage, and if it snaps, the engine would require a major overhaul, costing tens of thousands—definitely not worth it. I usually have the mechanic check it every 80,000 kilometers for cracks and tension. If you frequently drive long distances or on rough roads, you might need to inspect it more often, perhaps every 70,000 to 80,000 kilometers. Additionally, when replacing the belt, it’s a good idea to check the cooling system and the drive belt to ensure safety and peace of mind. Don’t underestimate this—regular maintenance keeps your car running smoothly and avoids costly disruptions.
