When Should I Change My Cambelt?

Miles or years, whichever comes first

Every car with a cambelt (timing belt) has a set change interval, given in both miles and years. Depending on the engine, it can be anywhere from around 40,000 to 100,000 miles, or somewhere between 4 and 10 years.

The age limit matters just as much as the miles. A low-mileage car can still need a belt because the rubber ages. Your handbook or service schedule gives the exact interval for your engine.

Why a snapped cambelt is so expensive

The cambelt keeps the top and bottom of the engine turning in step. On most modern engines, if the belt snaps, the pistons hit the valves. That usually means bent valves and a cylinder head rebuild, or even a replacement engine.

There is often no warning before it goes, which is why the change interval is so important.

Do not know if it has been done?

If you have bought a used car and there is no record of the cambelt being changed, assume it has not and have it done. Look for an invoice in the service history or a sticker under the bonnet.

We can check whether your engine has a belt or a chain and tell you the interval for your car.

Wet belts and timing chains

Some engines, including certain Ford 1.0 EcoBoost and Peugeot, Citroen and Vauxhall 1.2 PureTech engines, use a belt that runs in oil. These need the correct oil and servicing, and the belt condition should be checked regularly.

Timing chains usually last much longer than belts, but they can stretch. A rattle on start-up is a warning sign to get checked quickly.

What a proper cambelt job includes

A cambelt change should include the tensioner and idler pulleys, and the water pump too if it is driven by the belt, as it is on many cars. ER Automotive in Smethwick fits full kits to the right interval for your engine. Call 0121 461 6097 or book online.