Fort Collins Auto Repair

The timing belt might not get much attention compared to brakes or tires, but it plays a vital role in how your engine functions. It keeps the crankshaft and camshaft in sync so that your engine’s valves open and close at the right time. When it wears out or snaps, serious engine damage can happen in seconds. Knowing when to replace your timing belt can save you from expensive repairs and prevent sudden breakdowns. Here's what you need to know. What Does the Timing Belt Do Your engine relies on precise timing to run smoothly. The timing belt connects the crankshaft to the camshaft and ensures that the engine’s valves and pistons move in perfect coordination. In many engines, especially interference engines, if the timing is off by even a little, the pistons can collide with the valves. That kind of contact can bend or break parts, and usually means a very costly repair. The timing belt is also often responsible for driving the water pump, which make ... read more