Timing Belts

What is a Timing Belt?

Engine parts have to move at the right times, or else they'll collide with each other. Your BMW or MINI vehicle likely has a simple rubber belt (if not a chain) that helps make sure that doesn't happen. It's called a timing belt or cambelt.

Its job is to synchronize the crankshaft and camshaft. When both move accordingly, the engine's pistons pump properly and its intake and exhaust valves open and close correctly.

Signs of a Bad Timing Belt

Unfortunately, the belt can degrade and fail with use and age. Luckily, when that starts to happen, there are signs that'll let you know. They include:

• Ticking noises under the hood
• Oil leaks in front of the engine
• Engine performance problems, especially at lower rpm
• Excessive exhaust smoke and fumes
• Sudden engine misfires (usually indicating belt slippage or breakdown)
• The engine not starting at all

If your BMW or MINI timing belt fails, though, expect worse -- everything from misaligned timing and loss of engine power to total engine shutdown, and, worst of all, damage to the engine's valves and cylinder head. Otherwise, figuring out when to replace it is easy. You can check your owner's manual. It should have a mileage benchmark. For many newer BMW and MINI models, it's every 100,000 miles or so, and for older ones, it's approximately every 60,000 miles.

When it's time to buy a new one online, be sure you order genuine OEM. Your brand makes its timing belts guaranteed to fit its vehicles, after all.

Keep Your Ride Running Dependably - Install a Genuine BMW or MINI Timing Belt

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