Back to all

Automotive Tips from Tuffy Grand Rapids: A Broken or Damaged Timing Belt

August 13, 2023

The timing belt rotates the cam shafts which open and close the valves that allow air, fuel, and exhaust to flow through the engine as it powers your car when you drive around Grand Rapids.

An old timing belt can lose a “tooth” in the belt allowing it to slip. The engine could stop or misfire. Timing belt slips – or a broken timing belt – can be disastrous on some engines. In “interference” engines, open valves can get in the way of the piston when the timing belt breaks or slips. When that happens one or more valves can be bent requiring expensive engine repairs.

It is important for Grand Rapids drivers to replace their timing belts as recommended in their owner’s manual to avoid unnecessary breakdowns. Ask the team of professionals at Tuffy Grand Rapids in Grand Rapids if it’s time for your timing belt to be replaced.

Tuffy Grand Rapids
610 28th St. SE
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49548
616.452.4425

More articles from Tuffy Grand Rapids (28th St.)

Mileage Headed Downhill? (What Causes Bad Fuel Economy?)

November 23, 2025

Name someone you know who enjoys spending a lot of money on gasoline. Yeah, me neither. Thats because it costs quite a bit to keep fueling your vehicle. One way to save money on gas is to get good fuel economy, and most of todays vehicles are designed to maximize your mileage. But you might f... More

If the Shoe Fits (Brake Shoe Replacement [Rear])

November 16, 2025

When it comes to brakes on your vehicle, we all know how important it is to keep them working well because they are vital safety equipment. After all, if you cant slow down and stop, you cant drive safely. While many vehicles use what are called disc brakes, theres another type of brakes that ... More

Don?t Blow Your Cool (Water Pump Replacement)

November 9, 2025

Its always a good idea to keep your cool, and thats especially true when it comes to some components of your vehicle. One is the engine. Its hot under that hood thanks to the mini explosions that are occurring in the internal combustion engine when its running. Your vehicle has a cooling syste... More