Cambelt also known as timing belt is an important part of an automobile engine. Its function is to connect crankshaft with the camshaft. If the connection breaks the engine stops working and may damage other parts of the engine. It controls the timing and sequence of opening and closing of the valves to the cylinder.
Signs and symptoms of broken Cambelt
Often there are no signs of worn out cambelt as it is fixed within the engine. Even though, few signs can be observed for a faulty cambelt;
- Oil leakage
- Engine misfires and does not turn
- Engine ticking or rough idling
- Smoky engine
Your workshop or maintenance mechanic should tell you in a routine service that you need to replace the timing belt. If you find such symptoms, it is the time to get your engine checked. Probably, you will need a replacement for your timing belt. Ideally, the Cambelt should be replaced from 40,000 to 100,000miles. The tricky part is that the cambelt is not similar in all cars. These belts are different for different models and makes of automobile.
Cost of Cambelt
The cost varies with models and makes of cars, but generally it can range from £200 to £1000 or as per the manufacture’s recommendation. The cost of cambelt is not very expencive but the labour is. As timing belt replacement is a hectic procedure, most of the workshops charge even higher than the cambelt cost.
Replacement of timing belt
Following parts may be changed along with the cambelt;
- Seals of both crank and camshafts
- Water pump
- Tensioner
- Cambelt idler
What to do in case your car breaks down in winters
Timing belt replacement is not a “do it yourself” job. It is better to call a mobile mechanic instead of taking your automobile to a workshop. It can save your time, effort, and money. Let the professionals handle your situation. For a professional mobile mechanic you can look through our website and get a quote.
