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What does a cambelt do?
A cambelt is a type of timing belt, a critical part of your engine that connects the crankshaft to the camshaft, ensuring they remain in perfect synchronisation. This causes the engine valves to open and close at the correct moments during each cylinder’s intake and exhaust cycle. If this timing is even slightly off, it can cause poor performance or in the worst-case scenario, severe engine damage and costly repairs.
What is a cambelt?
Cambelts are typically made of reinforced rubber and run outside the engine lubrication system. Over time, exposure to heat and stress causes the belt to wear out.
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Cambelts are common in many petrol and diesel engines and usually require scheduled replacement every five to seven years, depending on the vehicle.​​​
Timing Chains
A timing chain performs the same function but in the form of a metal chain.
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Timing chains typically last the lifetime of the engine, although they can become stretched over time and require replacing.
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Some luxury European, Japanese and American manufacturers use a timing chain instead of a belt.
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A timing chain is a safer option for interference† engines, since failure of the timing system could cause catastrophic damage with pistons and valves colliding at high speeds.
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† Interference engines are configured so that the valves and pistons occupy the same space at different times. A failure of the timing system could naturally result in terrible internal damage to the engine.
Wet belts
We should also mention wet belts. These are a relatively new type of timing belt, so-called "wet" because the belt is partially submerged in engine oil, which is definitely not something you'd want to do with a regular cambelt.
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We have technicians with a great deal of expertise in dealing with wet belts as well as cambelts.
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Take a look at our wet belt page for more information.
Symptoms of a worn timing belt/chain
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Rattling or ticking noises from the engine
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Engine misfiring or running rough
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Warning lights appearing on the dashboard
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History of missed oil changes (especially relevant for wet belts)
If you think you might need a new cambelt or timing chain, or you simply want to keep on top of your vehicle maintenance to prevent premature issues with your timing system, click the button below to book your vehicle in with us.
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