Why You Need to do Preventative Auto Maintenance in San Diego

Check Your Timing Belt During Auto Maintenance San Diego

The repair bill associated with a broken timing belt can be staggering, and that is why you need to take your car in for routine auto maintenance in San Diego

How Does a Timing Belt Work? 

The cylinder head, located above the engine cylinders, contains multiple valves, and one allows clean air into the cylinder. The air is then combined with fuel and burned to generate power. Another valve will open, letting the exhaust escape the engine. The timing belt will use the engine power to open and close these valves, ensuring that the system functions and that all the components stay in sync.  

The timing or serpentine belt is a serrated, rubber belt, but some other vehicles utilize timing chains or gears instead. These are able to last much longer, but manufacturers tend to use timing belts because they make less noise and are more cost-effective. For those in San Diego with a small or midsize car, you likely have a timing belt. 

Timing Belt repair in San Diego

Check Your Timing Belt During Auto Maintenance San DiegoTiming belts are known to fail — often without any signs or warnings. This can quickly leave you stranded. An auto repair shop in San Diego can check out your timing for any cracks or other issues. Depending on the type of car, it can be hard to access the timing belt, and that is why it is often suggested that the timing belt is replaced regularly. The typical range is anywhere from 60,000 to 90,000 miles for most vehicles. 

Cars with non-interference engines will shut down entirely in the event of a timing belt failure. Depending on how fast you are traveling when it occurs, it can risk damaging the engine. While it can cost to change the serpentine belt, it is a lot less than having to cough up the cash for a steep engine repair bill. 

Check your owner’s manual if you have over 60,000 miles on your car. In some cases, you may need a timing belt changed immediately. The timing belt in certain vehicles is powered by the water pump, so it is suggested that you replace them both at the time, because both these repairs involve similar steps. This means that you can save time and money when you perform both at the same time. 

Auto Repair San Diego 

For years, Automobile Repair Company San Diego has been a family-owned and run repair shop that has supplied high-quality car maintenance in the San Diego area. We provide you with hassle-free estimates and repairs in San Diego, beginning with a precise evaluation of the present problems with your car. For no additional charge, we will tow your vehicle to our facility, arrange for a rental car, and work directly with your insurance carrier to expedite the repair process. We will even cover your deductible up to a maximum of $500. Contact Automobile Repair Shop San Diego at (619) 330-0862 to find out how we can assist you with all of your repair needs.