Is timing belt replacement really necessary?

Yes. Replacing the timing belt is necessary if your engine uses a synthetic rubber-and-fabric timing belt. The belt keeps the crankshaft and camshaft synchronized so that the pistons and valves open and close at the correct times. It wears from heat, age, mileage, oil leaks, and tension, even when the vehicle still seems to run normally. Unlike some maintenance items, a timing belt will give little or no warning before it fails. If the timing belt breaks, the engine will stall immediately on many interference engines, such as most German auto engines; internal parts can collide, causing serious engine damage, including bent valves, damaged pistons, or total engine destruction. The safest approach is to follow the factory service interval and replace related parts, such as tensioners, idler pulleys, seals, and the water pump, as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.

If you have timing belt problems in Ann Arbor or nearby, call Stadium Auto Service at (734) 369-6787, make an online appointment, or visit the shop. We have technicians who specialize in timing belt diagnosis and repair exclusively on Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Porsche, and Volkswagen.