Cam belt replacement in Loughborough
Cam belts changed on time, before a snapped belt wrecks the engine.
The cam belt, also called the timing belt, keeps the top and bottom halves of your engine turning in step. It's a rubber belt with a limited life, and every manufacturer sets a point at which it should be changed: a mileage or an age, whichever comes first.
If a cam belt snaps while the engine is running, the valves and pistons can collide. On many engines that means a very expensive repair or a replacement engine, so changing the belt on time is far cheaper than waiting.
When to get your cam belt looked at
- The car has reached the mileage or age in its service schedule
- You've bought a used car and there's no record of the belt being changed
- The belt looks cracked, frayed or glazed, or has oil on it
- A ticking, slapping or squealing noise from the belt end of the engine
- Coolant leaking from the water pump, which on many engines is driven by the cam belt
What’s included
- Checking the manufacturer's change interval for your engine
- Removing the covers and locking the engine timing
- Fitting the new belt, with the tensioner and pulleys where they're part of the job
- Replacing the water pump at the same time on engines where the belt drives it, if you want it done
- Checking the timing and running the engine before the car goes back to you
Common questions
When should a cam belt be changed?
It varies a lot from one engine to another, so there's no single figure. The interval is in your car's handbook or service book and is given as a mileage and an age: change the belt at whichever comes first. If you're not sure, send us your registration and we'll look it up.
What happens if the cam belt snaps?
The engine stops straight away. On many engines the pistons then hit the open valves, bending them and sometimes damaging the pistons and cylinder head. That repair costs far more than a belt change, which is why it isn't worth putting off.
Does my car have a cam belt or a timing chain?
Some engines use a chain instead of a belt. Chains are designed to last longer, but they can stretch and rattle with age. Tell us your registration and we'll tell you which one your engine has.
Related services
Engine replacement
When an engine is past saving, we take it out and fit a replacement.
Diagnostics
Warning light on, or something not right. We find the cause before anything gets replaced.
Clutch replacement
Slipping, juddering or a heavy pedal. We replace worn clutches and sort out clutch faults.
See all services. We look after cars from Loughborough, the villages around it and the rest of Leicestershire.
Book a slot that fits around work
Open Monday to Friday 5pm to 10pm, Saturday 10am to 3pm.