Wondering What causes your car’s timing belt to fail prematurely?
Yes, timing belts can fail prematurely. Why do timing belts fail early?
Wondering about timing belt failure? There are a few different things that can cause your car’s timing belt to fail early. In some cases, the hardware like timing belt tensioners or idlers can cause your timing belt to fail prematurely. Likewise a faulty or leaking water pump can do the same.
Also understand that improper tension or your timing belt or and when the timing belt is soaked in engine oil, the belt can fail prematurely.
How can I tell if my timing belt needs replacement? Can a timing belt condition be inspected?
The short answer is YES. However, understand that it’s normal that a timing belt be covered by plastic or metal covers.
Visual inspection is the only way to really tell if your car’s timing belt needs replacement.
Your mechanic can remove one of the covers and visually assess the condition of the timing belt. The engine will still run fine, but close inspection may show that the timing belt is in poor condition. You can see the many cracks in the one pictured here. The car owner rightfully decided to have the timing belt replaced – as opposed to risk major engine damage and huge repair bills!