Most drivers seem not to realise about timing belt issues. Whereas, when it goes wrong, a failed timing belt can take your entire engine with it. That’s why this job is often considered one of the most expensive pieces of routine maintenance.
If you own a used car in Sydney, replacing the timing belt is one of those expenses you shouldn’t put off. The job usually costs between $600 and $1,500, depending on your car’s make, model, and engine. Some European and performance cars can cost even more.
The belt itself isn’t particularly expensive. Most of the cost comes from labour, as mechanics need time to access and replace it. Then the question arises: Is it even worth fixing, or should you just sell the car and move on?
What Does a Timing Belt Do?
The timing belt has a pivotal role to make sure pistons and valves sync to work together in your engine. In some engines, the piston and valves have a close position, so the right timing belt matters.
If the timing belt breaks, those parts can cause serious engine damage because they can hit each other. In the meantime, the repair cost can drain your wallet and may cause the entire engine to be replaced.
Timing Belt vs Engine/Drive Belt
Many people mix up between timing belt and engine/drive belt. The timing belt is located inside the engine to sync the pistons and valves moving on the right time. But, the engine/drive belt is located outside the engine and power parts. Regarding the replacement cost, a drive belt is easier to replace then the cost is lower than a timing belt. So, if you want to replace the timing belt, make sure you know the right part you need.
How Much Does Timing Belt Replacement Cost in Sydney?
The cost isn’t fixed because it depends on your car’s make, model, and engine. For your insight, here’s a rough price guide:
- Japanese and Korean cars: $600–1,000
- Subaru: $700–1,200
- European cars: $900–1,800+
- Porsche and performance cars: $1,200–2,500+
Sometimes, there are also some suggestions to replace particular parts, like tensioners (plus labour cost). Then, it is automatically added to the bill. Don’t just guess it, ask about the details of your car.
When Should You Replace a Timing Belt?
The exact number when you should replace a timing belt varies depending on each vehicle, check to the manual. But, most timing belts need replacing between 60,000 to 100,000 km.
Then, if you buy a used car, ask the seller about the last time the timing belt was replaced. Also, it’s worth looking up the service records as well. If you’re unsure about it, ask the mechanic to check before saying yes to buy.
What Happens If a Timing Belt Breaks?
If a timing belt breaks, it can affect the engine which can stop running and lead to serious damage. In many modern engines, the pistons can hit the valves when the timing belt breaks.This can leave you with bent valves, damaged pistons, or even a ruined engine. The repair must be expensive, moreover for an old car that must have surpassed the vehicle’s value.
Is It Worth Replacing the Timing Belt on an Old Car?
If the replacement cost is higher than the old car is worth, then you’re putting money into a car that may not give you much return. Then, selling it for cash to a reliable cash for cars Sydney companies like Metro Car Removal can actually be the easier path. No need to spend money on repairs, just stay still at your location. We remove for free and give you payment on the spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to replace a timing belt?
It depends on each vehicle, but prepare between between $600 and $1,500 for timing belt replacement cost in Sydney.
What is the best timing to replace the timing belt?
For the best time, check the car’s manual because the interval varies for each vehicle. But, mostly timing belts need to be replaced between 60,000 to 100,000 km.
If I still drive with a broken timing belt, is it okay?
A worn belt can break while you’re driving and cause serious engine damage. If your belt is overdue, have it checked by a mechanic.
Is it worth repairing a car with a damaged timing belt?
You need to reconsider if the repair cost is much higher than the value of the car. So, selling the car as-is to trusted cash for cars company has become a sensible option.
Final Notes
Although timing belt replacement cost isn’t cheap, it doesn’t mean you skip to replace, unless the whole engine can be broken as well. For older cars with other mechanical problems, take a closer look at the repair costs before spending more money. If the repair cost still makes sense, then replacing it would be a wise option. The other way around, sell it as-is if the replacement cost is higher than the value of the car.
