Belts & Hoses
The timing belt is a notched rubber belt that allows the crankshaft to turn the camshaft. The camshaft opens and closes the valves in synchronicity with the movement of the pistons. A timing belt may also be called a Gilmer belt or a camshaft drive belt. If your timing belt breaks, your engine will stop working, stranding you wherever you may be. Even worse, it could cause major engine damage.
That’s why it’s important to have your timing belt regularly inspected by your mechanic. Your mechanic will look for two things: wear and slippage. Cracks or stripping indicate it’s time for belt replacement. If the belt is loose or it’s slipped, the valves could open at the wrong time and be struck by the pistons, causing major damage. Generally, timing belts should be replaced every 50,000 to 60,000 miles.
Serpentine belts (also known as drive belts) provide power to the air conditioning compressor, power steering pump, cooling fan, air injection pump, and more. If your serpentine belt breaks, all of the engine parts it is powering will stop working. Your engine could overheat and be damaged. It’s very important to have your serpentine belt inspected by your mechanic. Your mechanic will look for cracks, wear, and stripping. These are all signs your serpentine belt is in danger of failing. It’s recommended to have your serpentine belt inspected every time you have your oil changed. Warning sounds include a screeching noise coming from your engine, especially during start-ups on cold mornings or on sharp turns. Studies have shown that serpentine belts most often fail between 36,000-50,000 miles.
Hoses – Coolant hoses include the upper radiator hose, the lower radiator hose, heater hoses and in some cars the bypass hose. Hoses provide a flexible connection for coolant flow between the engine and the radiator, and the engine and the heating block. Your manufacturer recommends you have your vehicle hoses and accompanying clamps inspected twice a year. Tiny cracks can form from the inside that can eventually lead to a burst hose and overheated engine.
