How often should the timing belt of the 2013 Lavida be replaced?
2 Answers
The timing belt of the 2013 Lavida should be replaced every 4 years or 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers. The timing belt is a crucial component of the engine's valve system, made of rubber. It connects the upper part (the timing pulley on the engine cylinder head) to the lower part (the crankshaft timing pulley). The camshaft connected to the timing pulley has cams that interact with small rocker arms, which generate pressure through the power transmitted by the timing belt, enabling the lifting action. Here are some precautions for replacing the timing belt: Loosen the bolts of the crankshaft pulley, but first ensure the flywheel is locked using a specialized tool. When installing a new timing belt, make sure that when cylinder No. 1 is at ignition, the mark on the camshaft timing gear aligns with the indicator on the edge of the oil pump housing. Also, the mark on the crankshaft timing belt tooth must align with the mark on the timing belt rear cover. If the belt starts showing cracks, becomes stiff due to aging, or loses teeth due to lack of maintenance, the engine may experience skipped teeth or, in severe cases, the belt may break completely.
I've been running an auto repair shop for over ten years, and timing belts are something to take seriously. For the 2013 Lavida, the manufacturer recommends replacing the timing belt every 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers or every 5 years—don't delay. The belt is made of rubber and will degrade and crack over time. If it snaps while driving, the valves and pistons can collide, causing complete engine failure. The repair cost can skyrocket to around 10,000 yuan, far exceeding the cost of regular belt replacement. I've repaired many Lavidas where owners exceeded the mileage without replacing the belt, leading to dangerous roadside breakdowns. Pay attention to the belt during daily driving—if you hear squeaking from the engine bay or unusual noises during cold starts, get it checked immediately. The replacement cost typically ranges from 1,200 to 1,800 yuan, including labor, and I recommend using genuine parts for durability. Have a technician inspect the belt during routine maintenance to save a lot of hassle.
