Timing Belt or Chain Service in Edmonton, AB

Keep your vehicle’s engine running smoothly and efficiently by having its timing checked and components maintained or replaced when necessary. Your vehicle’s engine is a major component that requires varying levels of maintenance to serve you reliably, so make sure to book a timing belt or chain service appointment for total peace of mind. Continue reading to learn more about what an engine timing service is and what is the difference between a timing belt and a chain.

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What an Engine Timing Service is & Why It’s Important

An engine timing service involves checking and adjusting the timing of key components in your vehicle's engine, particularly the camshaft and crankshaft. These parts must be precisely synchronized for optimal performance. The timing ensures that the engine's intake and exhaust valves open and close at the correct intervals relative to the position of the pistons. Proper timing helps the engine run smoothly, maintain power, and reduce emissions. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, it will have either a timing belt or chain, requiring different maintenance for optimal engine timing reliability.

Maintenance Requirements of a Timing Belt vs. Timing Chain

When it comes to maintenance of your engine’s timing system, it can differ greatly depending on whether it has a timing belt or chain. Both are fairly common ways for modern engines to keep timing, but timing chains are becoming increasingly prevalent. Here is what maintenance looks like for each of these timing components:

Timing Belt

A timing belt functions very similarly to a serpentine belt, it is attached to sprockets and rides against pulleys to spin various internal components as the engine spins. Its main purpose is to drive critical systems and maintain proper timing between engine camshafts and the crankshaft. The belt is made of rubber and can wear out over time, especially if an active oil leak reaches it, which can prematurely degrade the rubber. Since it’s accessible externally, an engine timing belt is a service item that can be replaced. However, it must be done carefully to ensure timing isn’t adjusted during the service, which can cause internal component damage.

Timing Chain

On the other hand, a timing chain is a metal chain that is internally housed inside the engine, and it serves the same function as a timing belt. However, since it’s metal and inside the engine, it rides on timing chain guides made of plastic and utilizes oil for lubrication. A timing chain can serve the entire life of the engine with proper oil changes but sometimes a failing tensioner or poor oil lubrication can lead to the need for replacement of the chain and its guides.

Schedule a Timing Belt or Chain Service at North Edmonton Kia

Keep your engine in perfect timing by regularly checking and maintaining your vehicle’s timing belt or chain. It’s always a good idea to know which of these timing components your vehicle’s engine has and never neglect your oil changes, especially if your engine has a timing chain. Book a timing belt or chain service appointment with us at North Edmonton Kia, and our experts will ensure that it’s ready for many more reliable driving seasons.