Best Auto Repair News & Updates

A timing belt tensioner should last the lifetime of your vehicle. However, just like any mechanical part, these can fail. When that happens, it is imperative that you have this problem fixed immediately because it can lead to some severe problems with your car’s engine. In this article, we’ll discuss some symptoms that might indicate a problem with the timing belt tensioner.

 

What is a Timing Belt Tensioner?

 

In order to understand what a timing belt tensioner is, we need to first take a look at what a timing belt is, because these are essential components of your car that operate together.

 

• Timing Belt: The timing belt is also known as the cambelt. It keeps the rotation of the  crankshaft and camshaft synchronized, hence the name “timing”. Basically, the timing belt keeps your engine's numerous moving parts in sync, which is necessary so that all the valves and pistons can operate in harmony.

• Timing Chain: Often you’ll hear the term timing chain. Its purpose is the same as the timing belt, but they are made out of different materials. The timing belt is constructed out of rubber, and the timing chain is made of metal.

• Timing Belt Tensioner: The timing belt tensioner is a small device that is responsible for both controlling and maintaining the tension or pressure of the timing belt or chain. They come in varied shapes and designs. By using pressure the timing belt tensioner keeps everything tightly in place. These tensioners need to be occasionally adjusted so that there is no slack between the belt and the moving parts.

 

5 Signs That You Need to Replace Your Timing Belt Tensioner

 

When the timing belt tensioner is not working correctly, it is unable to regulate the tension (pressure) on the timing belt. Therefore, the timing belt begins to malfunction (slippage), causing issues in the engine. So, when your timing belt tensioner fails, your timing belt fails. The symptoms will look like the timing belt isn’t working.

 

• Engine Misfires: A worn-out timing belt will throw off the timing of your car’s engine. This will cause it to misfire, and your car will struggle to start. The same thing will also happen if the timing belt is loose. That’s when you check the condition of the timing belt tensioner.

• Weird Noises: If you hear odd sounds like squealing, rattling, or ticking, especially when you are at high RPMs, it could mean a faulty tensioner.

• Not Enough Power: If you notice your car is sluggish when you accelerate, the timing belt or tensioner could be the cause. A lack of power to your engine may have many different reasons, which is why it is good to have it checked.

• Check Engine Light (CEL): When the check engine light comes on, there could be many reasons, but one thing is for sure—your car is telling you there is a problem with the engine. It is imperative that you don’t ignore this and have your vehicle inspected promptly. If it is a timing belt tensioner issue, and you address it in its early stages, it is easy enough to fix.

• Engine Won’t Start: In the worst-case scenario, your engine won’t turn over. You may notice your car requires prolonged cranking to start, or it simply won’t start. A slipping timing belt can cause this. It is a grave situation and you definitely need your engine closely examined to discover the problem.

 

Be Aware

 

Keep in mind there are many other problems in a vehicle that can imitate the symptoms of a malfunctioning timing belt tensioner. The only way to confirm the problem is to have a professional diagnostic done on your car. Remember, a malfunctioning tensioner is not too difficult to fix, but a catastrophic engine failure due to a slipped timing belt is a completely different matter. You may end up having to replace the engine.

 

 

Huron Automotive at Your Service

 

Regular maintenance is key to your vehicle’s health. Make it a habit to follow the recommended maintenance schedule of your car, SUV, or truck. At Huron Automotive, we can perform all the tasks your car needs. Our trained professionals will answer your questions. Call us or stop by our Green Bay location in Wisconsin.