A cambelt is also known as a timing belt, and it’s one of the most crucial elements of your car’s engine.
It is designed to keep the bottom half of the engine (pistons and crankcase) in sync with the top half (valves and cylinder head).
The cambelt will stretch over time, which can eventually lead to the part failing or snapping. If this happens, the internal components will no longer be working in sync, and instead will be causing serious damage.
This is why it is important to have your cambelt checked and replaced at regular intervals.
Is a timing chain the same as a cambelt?
A timing chain looks a little bit like a bicycle chain and performs the same role. Check your owner’s manual or speak to our team to check whether your car has a cambelt or a timing chain.
A timing chain is unlikely to stretch and snap, but can become slack if oil pressure falls low and tensioners fail. This will cause similar damage to a cambelt snapping.
How often does a cambelt need replacing?
The answer to this depends on your car. Most manufacturers recommend age or mileage intervals.
On average this tends to be every 4/5 years or every 40,000-60,000 miles depending on the vehicle. You will usually be able to find this information in your handbook, or you can speak to our team to find out the exact interval for your make and model.
Is cambelt covered under warranty?
A cambelt is not covered under most warranty policies as it is classed as a wear and tear item.
The only time the cambelt may be covered under your warranty is if it is found to have a manufacturer’s defect.
Is a cambelt part of an MOT?
A cambelt is not checked as part of a regular MOT. We recommend ensuring you book a separate check to ensure everything is in working order.
That being said, there is no way to determine when a cambelt was last changed by looking at it. If you do not have the relevant paperwork to tell you when the timing belt was last changed on your vehicle then the safest bet would always be to replace it.
How much does it cost to replace cambelt?
A timing belt replacement can cost anywhere up to £1,200 depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
This is not a simple job that can be completed at home, as any small error could result in irreversible engine damage. Please ensure a qualified mechanic completes your cambelt replacement.
Where can I get my cambelt replaced in Wiltshire?
We offer cambelt replacements at both our Bumpers Farm and MRG dealerships in Chippenham, Wiltshire. To book a cambelt replacement, click the button below to send us your details.