Indicators To Replace Your Volvo’s Timing Belt
Has your Volvo engine been giving off a peculiar ticking noise? If this is the case, chances are your timing belt is worn and needs to be replaced. If you’re suspecting a timing chain issue in your vehicle, read through this post to help you reach an understanding of its cause.
Timing Belt: How Significant Is It?
A car engine is comprised of metallic parts like pistons, valves, camshafts, crankshafts, connecting rods, rocker arms, etc. For this complex machine to operate as a unit, all of these components should act synchronously. The specific purpose of the timing belt is to make sure that these parts work closely with each other, generating enough energy to propel the vehicle forward. Since it’s rubber, it will succumb to wear and tear as time passes. If not replaced in a timely manner, additional engine problems are likely to happen. Look for the following signs to diagnose a damaged timing belt in your Volvo…
Signs Your Volvo Timing Belt Needs To Be Replaced
Sign #1- Odd ticking sounds
If you hear any odd ticking sounds emerging from your Volvo’s engine, it could point to one of many different things — ranging from a carbon fouled spark plug to reduced oil pressure. In addition, this noise could be the result of a cracked timing belt. When this piece gets damaged, you’ll notice this distinct signal.
Sign #2- Trouble starting the engine
Another obvious sign of timing belt failure is a vehicle no-start issue. So if your Volvo is cranking but having trouble starting the engine, check this essential part, along with your fuel injector, spark, starter motor, and fuel/air filter.
Sign #3- Performance issues
By syncing two major shafts, the timing belt makes sure the engine is performing what it’s supposed to. If it wears out or becomes loose, that synchronization will break — contributing to a series of different performance issues including stalling, sluggish acceleration, misfire, rough idling, so on and so forth. Don’t think of it as a trivial issue; it should be fixed immediately.
Sign #4- Malfunction Indicator On
As with any other engine issue, a damaged Volvo’s timing belt will set off the check engine light and other error messages. Before deciding on how to make repairs, find out exactly what triggered the engine warning light and proceed accordingly. You can use an OBD-II scanner to diagnose the issue effectively. If the timing belt is indeed the culprit, replace it and reset the light.
Sign #5- Oil leak
An oil leak is another common problem in vehicles with defective timing belts. To safeguard this important piece and protect it against dirt, debris, and other foreign elements, modern cars come equipped with specialized covers. Should this cover act up, oil will seep out of the system. If your Volvo is leaving oil stains, have its timing belt cover checked and replaced as needed.
Munich West: Your Trusted Volvo Service Center In Decatur
Established in 1976, Munich West has proudly 
served Volvo owners in and around Decatur and Atlanta, GA for decades. If you reside in one of these cities or their surrounding areas, feel free to visit our facility for all your timing belt issues. Our facilities’ certified professionals are able to deal with complicated engine complications like these and more! So if your Volvo engine is giving off a strange ticking noise and has its check engine light on, don’t take it for granted! Bring your Volvo into the our trusted service center today!
