Top Myths About Timing Belts – Busted!
Top Myths About Timing Belts – Busted!
What drivers in Lincoln need to know, from Andrews Car Centre
The timing belt is one of the most critical components in your engine — but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. At Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln, we regularly speak to drivers who have been misinformed about when to replace their timing belt, what it does, or whether their car even has one.
So, in this article, we’re setting the record straight. Let’s bust some of the most common myths about timing belts — and help you avoid costly mistakes.
🔧 Myth 1: "If My Car’s Still Running Fine, the Timing Belt Must Be OK"
Busted: Timing belts often give no warning at all before failure. Unlike other components that squeak or rattle, a worn timing belt can snap suddenly — and when it does, it can cause catastrophic damage to your engine.
📌 Prevention is key. Follow your manufacturer’s recommended interval or ask our technicians at Andrews Car Centre for guidance based on your mileage, age, and engine type.
🔧 Myth 2: "Timing Belts Last Forever"
Busted: Most timing belts need changing between 60,000 and 100,000 miles, or every 5 to 10 years, depending on the make and model. Even if the car is low mileage, rubber belts degrade with time, not just use.
🛠️ At Andrews Car Centre, we check belt condition during servicing and help you plan ahead to avoid surprise failures.
🔧 Myth 3: "Timing Belts and Timing Chains Are the Same Thing"
Busted: While they do the same job — synchronising your engine's crankshaft and camshaft — they’re very different in design and lifespan.
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Belts are rubber and usually need scheduled replacement.
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Chains are metal and typically last longer, but can still fail due to tensioner or lubrication issues.
📌 Not sure which one your vehicle has? Drop by Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln and we’ll let you know.
🔧 Myth 4: "You Only Need to Replace the Belt Itself"
Busted: A proper timing belt replacement usually includes a kit:
✔️ Belt
✔️ Tensioners
✔️ Idler pulleys
✔️ Often the water pump too (especially if driven by the same belt)
Replacing just the belt without the associated components increases the risk of failure — and you’ll be paying twice for labour.
🛠️ We always use quality kits at Andrews Car Centre and include everything your engine needs to stay reliable.
🔧 Myth 5: "Replacing a Timing Belt Is a Simple, Quick Job"
Busted: On many vehicles, accessing the timing belt requires stripping down part of the engine. It’s a precision job — if the timing is even slightly off, your engine could suffer performance issues or serious internal damage.
📌 Our experienced technicians are trained to handle timing belt changes properly and safely, with manufacturer-level care.
🔧 Myth 6: "It’s OK to Delay the Replacement by a Few Thousand Miles"
Busted: We’ve seen many engines in our Lincoln workshop ruined by belts that snapped just a few thousand miles after the recommended interval. Belts don't fail on a schedule — and if yours goes, it could lead to valve and piston damage costing thousands.
🛠️ If in doubt, replace early. It’s far cheaper than rebuilding an engine.
🔧 Myth 7: "I’ll Know When the Timing Belt Is Worn"
Busted: Sadly, most drivers won’t — timing belts don’t typically make noise, and wear isn’t visible unless you remove engine covers. By the time symptoms show, it’s often too late.
📌 That’s why we recommend scheduling your belt change ahead of time — and we’ll send reminders when it’s due.
✅ Trust Andrews Car Centre for Timing Belt Replacements in Lincoln
At Andrews Car Centre, we offer:
✔️ Expert timing belt replacements using trusted parts
✔️ Honest advice based on your car’s engine type and service history
✔️ Upfront quotes with no hidden extras
✔️ Water pump replacement included where needed
✔️ Quick turnaround and quality workmanship
📅 Is Your Timing Belt Due? Don’t Wait.
A snapped belt can cost you a fortune — but a timely replacement could save your engine.
📍 Visit Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln or give us a call to book your timing belt inspection or replacement.
🚗🔧 Andrews Car Centre – Keeping Lincoln’s Engines in Sync.