How often should the timing belt be replaced on an old Excelle GT?
2 Answers
The timing belt on an old Excelle GT should be replaced every 60,000 kilometers. Below is relevant information about timing belts: Replacement based on schedule: Since a broken timing belt can cause damage to the engine's internal valves, which is quite serious, manufacturers generally specify a replacement interval for timing belts. Connecting the engine and crankshaft: The timing belt serves as a link between the upper and lower parts: the upper part connects to the timing pulley on the engine cylinder head, while the lower part connects to the crankshaft timing pulley. The timing pulley is connected to the camshaft, which has cams. These cams make contact with small rocker arms, and the rocker arms use the power transmitted by the timing belt to generate pressure, which lifts the valves.
As a seasoned driver who has owned the Buick Excelle GT for many years, I believe the timing belt replacement interval is crucial. The car manual typically recommends changing it every 70,000 kilometers or 6 years. However, in actual driving, I make it a habit to proactively replace it every 6 years because the belt is made of rubber and can age and crack over time. Once, my car suddenly made strange noises on the highway, and upon inspection, I found the belt was close to breaking—fortunately, I got it fixed in time. A broken belt is no joke; it can cause the pistons to hit the valves, leading to a major engine overhaul costing at least tens of thousands of yuan. During routine maintenance, I always ask the technician to check if the belt is loose or has cracks and choose a reliable repair shop to replace it with high-quality parts. Don’t cut corners when it comes to safety, especially for cars that frequently go on long trips—replacing it early saves worry and hassle.
