What is a cambelt?

A cambelt is a crucial part of your vehicle. This rubber belt is located within the engine, where it plays a vital role in linking and regulating the timing of various other components.

 

​What is a timing chain?

A timing chain or timing belt is another term for the cambelt.

 

​How does a cambelt work?

The cambelt plays a crucial role within the engine by synchronising the crankshaft and camshaft, which regulates the timing and sequence of the valve openings and closings in the cylinders. This synchronisation is essential for a smoothly operating engine and helps achieve optimal efficiency.

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​How do I know if my cambelt needs replacing?

Cambelts, similar to tyres, will eventually degrade and require replacement. Unfortunately, they often don't show clear signs that it's time for a change. However, you should be mindful of certain issues like difficulty starting your car, engine misfires, a ticking sound, or oil leaks from the front of the engine. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact Harrietsham Garage & MOT and our team will be happy to diagnose the problem for you. Monitoring your cambelt is crucial, and it should be inspected regularly. Neglecting a timing belt can lead to its failure, which may cause engine components to collide, resulting in significant engine damage and costly repairs.

 

How often should I replace my cambelt?

Each vehicle has unique specifications, which is why Harrietsham Garage & MOT emphasises that proactive maintenance is key to caring for your cambelt. It's generally advised to replace your cambelt around 40,000 miles, though this can vary based on the make and model of your vehicle. For specific guidance, refer to your vehicle's handbook for the manufacturer's recommendations, or reach out to Harrietsham Garage & MOT with your vehicle registration for further assistance.

 

Will I need a water pump replacement too? 

A water pump usually lasts between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. Consequently, when it's time to replace your vehicle's cambelt or timing belt, it's wise to also replace the water pump, as it is likely to fail around the same time. Additionally, since the mechanic will need to access the cambelt to replace the water pump, doing both at once can save customers from incurring extra labor costs later on.

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How much will a cambelt replacement cost?

To replace a cambelt, prices depend on the vehicle's make and model.  If you provide your vehicle registration to one of our mechanics, we can provide you with an exact quote. At Harrietsham Garage & MOT, our mechanics ensure that every customer fully understands the necessary work and agrees on the final price before any work begins. 

Plus, all our work comes with a 12-month guarantee.

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