Our Services

What happens when the timing belt breaks?

Timing Belt Service

Timing belts are tough, but they don’t last forever. Anytime your engine is running, this belt is moving really fast and rubbing up against all kinds of things with a lot of force. Over time, it can wear down or become brittle, or the teeth on the inside of the belt can break.

How do I know if I need my timing belt serviced?

Hopefully, you won’t find out after a sudden loss of power while you’re zipping down the road. Besides being the most expensive way to discover the problem, it can also be extremely dangerous.

However, there are a few things you might notice that could give you an early indication of a problem with your timing belt:

  • You hear a ticking noise coming from the engine.
  • Your car tries to start, but won’t turn over.
  • Your engine stutters, jerks, and misfires.
  • You find oil leaking from the front of the engine.

Contact us as soon as possible if you encounter any of these issues.

How does the timing belt work?

Your car’s timing belt is winds its way throughout the engine and drives many of its key components. It is responsible for making sure that the cylinders all fire at the right time. Things like the camshaft(s), water pump, and oil pump depend on it. Simply put, without it your engine would not work.

The outside of this thick rubber belt is smooth like the belt you may be using to hold up your pants. The inside, however, has “teeth” which fit into and turn the pulleys and gears of the parts it is connected to.

Why should I get my timing belt checked?

Timing belts are tough, but they don’t last forever. Anytime your engine is running, this belt is moving really fast and rubbing up against all kinds of things with a lot of force. Over time, it can wear down or become brittle, or the teeth on the inside of the belt can break.

When your timing belt fails:

  • The engine stalls and will not restart
  • Damage to several engine parts could occur
  • You may have no warning and little chance to pull over safely
What do we do in a typical timing belt service?

Most auto manufacturers recommend replacing the timing belt somewhere around 60,000-100,000 miles. Each vehicle will be different, but we can easily check and let you know when yours should be serviced. The skill required to properly install it is why you should always have an experienced technician (like us here at [atc]) handle it for you. One DIY mistake could be very costly.

A typical timing belt service includes:

  • Accessing and replacing the timing belt (some vehicles have more than one belt behind the timing cover
  • Replacing the timing belt tensioner, idler pulley(s) and water pump (when applicable) (these are directly connected to the belt’s operation and wear out at the same rate)
  • Setting the engine’s mechanical timing
  • Replacing your vehicle’s coolant (when water pump replacement is performed)

Your vehicle is one of your largest investments. Protect it (and possibly yourself) by making sure to have the timing belt replaced on or before the mileage recommended by the manufacturer.

After all, timing is everything.

Click here to set up an appointment. Or call one of our locations today:

atc Auto Center, Augusta
(706) 738-7812

atc Auto Center, Grovetown
(706) 303-3333

Timing Belt Tips
  • Don’t dismiss it. This little strip of rubber is responsible for keeping your engine running. It is the common link between several very important parts. So it pays to pay attention to it. This happens to be the belt that you ‘can’t’ see when you open the hood But don’t take the “out of sight out of mind approach” “If timing belt ain’t happy…ain’t nobody happy!”
  • Know if you even have one. Most cars do, but some have a timing chain instead. Before the 1960s, when Pontiac introduced the first rubber timing belt, all cars were chain driven. But the belts were quieter, and pretty soon all the cool cars were wearing one. Check with us to determine whether your vehicle came equipped with a timing belt or chain and we will be able to lead you in the right direction on the service interval for your application
Timing Belt Service Near Me

[atc] Auto Center is here to help with your vehicle repair and preventative maintenance needs. We’re the timing belt service experts! Call or visit us today at one of our locations including Augusta, GA, and Grovetown, GA. You’ll discover why we’re the best auto shop in the CSRA!

We’re very thankful to have a car care center that we trust. The employees are friendly and knowledgeable and they provide a hospitable environment to relax in.

Amanda Riggs

Excellent auto place!! Great work done! I usually go to a dealership for all work, however I needed something more custom and they did everything very well!

Daniel Forrester | Augusta, GA

This is my 2nd time here and I have been treated awesome. They are quick to welcome you and make you feel comfortable.

Robert Smith | Grovetown, GA

Need better timing?

Schedule an appointment today!