Is your owner's manual recommending it is time to have your timing belt replaced? Whether you spend every day in stop and go traffic or enjoy a quick commute, your timing belt will wear out over time. The Service Center at Ridgehill Ford is ready to take care of this simple, yet important, maintenance task on your next visit.
The timing belt is located on the front of the engine and its teeth fit into a set of gears at the top and the bottom. It ensures that your valves and pistons open and close at the perfect moment to maximize combustion and horsepower. Newer engines use the same belt to also power your water pump, which keeps your engine from overheating.
A Failed Belt will Stop You in Your Tracks
If the teeth wear out, which they will do after thousands of miles of use, they can slip out of the gear, which allows the timing of the engine to slip. Your valves can end up moving out of sync, damaging the cylinder head. If the timing belt completely falls apart or slips off the pulley, your engine will stop. You are then left on the side of the road waiting for a tow truck to come to your rescue.
Add a Belt Inspection with Every Oil Change to Avoid Catastrophe
Most timing belts are designed to last an average of 60,000 to 100,000 miles, but that doesn't mean that yours won't give up the ghost a few thousand miles early. Check your Ford owners manual to verify its recommended service interval.
A quick inspection of the belt, pulleys, and gears can detect unusual wear that could result in an early failure. You can then schedule an engine timing belt replacement when it fits into your day, instead of paying for an emergency tow and struggling to find a ride to work.
At Ridgehill Ford, we stock genuine Ford parts ensuring that your new timing belt pairs perfectly with your vehicle. Use our easy online scheduling form or give us a call to pick a date and time that is convenient for you.
