Things to know when changing the timing belt

In this video, we are told some important things to know about replacing the timing belt: first of all, we need to know what this component is for: it is used to open the valves of the cylinder head at the right time. The replacement interval is both mileage and time-based and varies depending on the brand of our car; in any case, the rule of "whichever condition occurs first" applies.

Of course, there may be malfunctions that lead us to change the belt before the parameters indicated by the manufacturer, such as strange noises or oil on the belt; if you believe you are able to replace the belt yourself, you need to get, in addition to the belt, the pulleys, the tensioner, the water pump with its gasket (which must be coated with coolant upon installation) and the bolts; this last component is always changed together with the belt.

You will also need a torque wrench and locking tools to maintain the timing, which will also ensure the perfect tension of the belt; check carefully for leaks and that all casings are in good condition; to perform the operation, the engine must be off for at least four hours and the negative pole of the battery must be disconnected.