Is the impact significant if the timing belt is off by half a tooth?

[VonBrielle]

Being off by half a tooth on the timing belt has a significant impact. It can cause incorrect ignition timing, difficulty in starting the vehicle, and in severe cases, may even affect the valves. It is recommended to remove the belt, realign the timing, and then reinstall it. Here is an introduction to the timing belt: The timing belt is a crucial component of the engine's valve system. It connects to the crankshaft and operates at a specific transmission ratio to ensure accurate intake and exhaust timing. The use of a belt instead of gears for transmission is due to its lower noise, minimal self-variation, and ease of compensation. Clearly, the lifespan of a belt is shorter than that of metal gears, so regular replacement of the belt is necessary.