Last Updated: Feb 05, 2021

Automotive Tips from Sparks Tire & Auto: A Broken or Damaged Timing Belt

The timing belt rotates the cam shafts which open and close the valves that allow air, fuel, and exhaust to flow through the engine as it powers your car when you drive around St. Charles.

An old timing belt can lose a “tooth” in the belt allowing it to slip. The engine could stop or misfire. Timing belt slips – or a broken timing belt – can be disastrous on some engines. In “interference” engines, open valves can get in the way of the piston when the timing belt breaks or slips. When that happens one or more valves can be bent requiring expensive engine repairs.

It is important for St. Charles drivers to replace their timing belts as recommended in their owner’s manual to avoid unnecessary breakdowns. Ask the team of professionals at Sparks Tire & Auto in St. Charles if it’s time for your timing belt to be replaced.

Sparks Tire & Auto
1665 Scherer Parkway
St. Charles, Missouri 63303
636-946-5900