How Often Should a Car Engine Timing Belt Be Replaced?
2 Answers
Car engine timing belts should be replaced every 3 to 5 years. The timing belt is a crucial component of the engine's valve system. The replacement method is as follows: 1. Lift the vehicle and remove the right front wheel fender liner; 2. Remove the generator belt and the generator belt tensioner; 3. Loosen the crankshaft pulley screws; 4. Open the engine hood and remove the water tank; 5. Remove the engine mounting bracket and the protective cover on the timing belt; 6. Unscrew the generator mounting screws and remove the generator; 7. Remove the cylinder block mounting bracket and take off the crankshaft pulley; 8. Rotate the crankshaft to the top dead center position of the cylinder and mark it; 9. Remove the timing belt and the timing tensioner to complete the replacement.
Speaking of timing belt replacement, I've seen plenty of lessons learned firsthand. Most family cars recommend inspection around 80,000 km, and you should never push it beyond 100,000 km. My friend's old Accord delayed replacement until 110,000 km, and when the belt suddenly snapped, the engine was completely destroyed - the repair cost could've bought a used car. Turbocharged models especially need earlier attention, as rubber materials degrade particularly fast in high-temperature environments. Some newer cars now use chains for peace of mind, but most Japanese cars still use belts. The exact timing depends on your driving habits - if you're often stuck in traffic, you might need replacement in five or six years, while highway-heavy drivers can stretch it a couple more years.
