what is cambelt and what does actually do?
A cambelt, also known as timing belt, is crucial in an internal combustion engine. It synchronizes the crankshaft and camshaft(s) rotation, ensuring the engine valves open and close precisely during intake and exhaust strokes. This timing is vital for efficient engine performance. If the cambelt fails, it can cause significant engine performance. If the cambelt fails, it can cause significant engine damage due to piston- value collisions, leading to costly repairs. Regular cambelt changes are essential for vehicle maintenance.
Based on the age and mileage of your vehicle, Cartopia GDK can quickly assess whether you need to have you cambelt replaced. If it's not needed yet, we can set up a reminder to make sure you'll know when to consider getting it done and we can provide you with precise cambelt replacement costs.
If you'd like to know more about what a cambelt is and why you should replace them, then please read on.
As always at the end of the blog there's a nice treat for anyone who get's to the end.
How often should you change your Cambelt?
There’s no ‘one size fits all’ rule when it comes to how frequently a cambelt should be changed, as a lot depends on the car.
Most manufacturers suggest either a time- or mileage-based change, depending on which comes first.
There’s a lot of variation between both manufacturers and engines when it comes to when a change is due. This could range from 60,000 miles up to 100,000 miles, and from four years up to ten years.
The vehicle handbook will specify the change frequency, but if reading that is about as much fun as reading a bottle of bleach, then phone Cartopia GDK on 02033842999 and we'll be able to let you know if and when a cambelt change is due.
Manufacturer’s intervals should be treated as the absolute maximum, as failure of the cambelt can cause serious mechanical damage.
How much does a cambelt change cost?
The bill for changing a cambelt can vary from around £350 to over £600 depending on the make of car, whether you want us to use genuine or aftermarket parts and it is also common for the water pump (the thing that pumps coolant around the engine) to run off the cambelt as well. In these cases it is always advisable to renew the water pump as well because if you have problems with the water pump in future you will have to do all the work again to get to it. The parts aren't hugely expensive, even genuine manufacturer parts, however it is just one of those jobs where it’s the labour that bumps up the bill.
Replacing the cambelt kit (that's what it's actually called) will take several hours of work, which involves taking apart the engine block and putting it back together.
Any early-warning signs?
Again in a nut-shell, Nope.
Often there’s no sign the cambelt’s reached the end of the road as it’s so deeply embedded in the engine.
Ruben Almeida, our senior technician at Cartopia GDK with over 20 years experience, says: “If a driver is very lucky, they may hear a rattling noise but in most cases even an expert may not be able to predict a cambelt failure, so prevention is always better than the cure”.
And unlike new brakes or other replacement parts, you may not notice any difference in the way your car drives.
How to avoid changing your Cambelt?
Cambelts are often referred to as Timing Belts, because of the way they control the timing of the engine, but to avoid the dreaded cambelt change you could buy a car that's chain driven. Cars with Timing Chains instead of Belts don't need their chains changed but before you run out and Part Exchange your belt driven car for a chain driven one, you should know that it doesn't mean they're necessarily better. Chains stretch and repairs on that can be very costly too.
Seriously don't get me started on the BMW Vanos system !!!!! In fact if you have a 1.6 petrol BMW from 2004 to 2008 then you do want to be part exchanging that. :)
FAQs :
Q: what is a cambelt?
A: A cambelt, or timing belt, synchronizes the rotation of the crankshaft and camshafts(s) in an engine, ensuring the valves open and close at the correct times.
Q: How often should I change my cambelt :
A: It varies by vehicle, but typically every 60,000 to 10,000 miles. Consult your vehicle's manual for specific recommendations.
Q: What are the sings of a worn cambelt ?
A: Sings include unusual noises, engine misfires, difficulty starting, and oil leaks near the front of the motor.
Q: What happens if the cambelt breaks ?
A: broken cambelt can cause severe engine damage, as the pistons and valves can collide, leading to costly repairs.
Tips
Regular Inspections : Check the cambelt regularly for sings of wear or damage.
Follow Manufacturer Guidelines : Always adhere to the cambelt replacement schedule recommended in your vehicle's manual.
Use Quality parts : Ensure replacements cambelts and related components are high-quality and compatible with your vehicle.
Professional Service : Have the cambelt replaced by a qualified mechanic to avoid installation errors.
Monitor Performance : Pay attention to changes in engine performance, as they can indicate cambelt issues.
