Timing beltWallonia
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213. Timing belt
A timing belt is a toothed belt in an internal-combustion engine that synchronises the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft so that the engine's valves open and close at the correct time relative to piston movement.
The timing belt is a wear component and must be replaced according to the vehicle manufacturer's maintenance schedule. If it becomes excessively worn or breaks, the engine can stop suddenly and, in many engine designs, serious internal engine damage can occur.
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Is the timing belt routinely checked during technical inspection in Belgium?
No specific routine timing-belt check forms part of the standard roadworthiness inspection. The technical inspection should therefore not be relied upon to determine whether a timing belt is due for replacement.
When should a timing belt be replaced in Belgium?
Follow the replacement interval specified by the vehicle manufacturer. The required interval depends on the make, model and engine and can be based on both mileage and age.
Should you wait for symptoms before replacing a timing belt?
No. A timing belt can fail without a reliable warning, so preventive replacement according to the manufacturer's maintenance schedule is important. A broken belt can cause the engine to stop and may result in severe internal engine damage.

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