WHAT'S THE BIG DEAL ABOUT TIMING BELT REPLACEMENT?

A timing belt failure is disastrous for an Audi engine. These "interference engines" do not have enough clearance to prevent the pistons from smashing into the valves if the cam stops turning. The resulting damage will be extensive - possibly requiring engine replacement.

It is very difficult to predict when a timing belt will fail but the risk goes up significantly in engines with more than 90,000 miles. Because failure is hard to predict and very costly, German Car Specialists, Inc. recommends timing belt replacement for interference engines with 60,000 - 90,000 miles. When replacing the timing belt it is highly recommended that you replace the belt tensioner, roller and water pump.

Don't let a timing belt failure cause damage to your engine. The certified professional technicians at German Car Specialists, Inc. are trained to efficiently replace your Audi's belt.

German Car Specialists, Inc. has exclusively serviced German automobiles since 1979.

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More about timing belts.

A Tensioner Roller C Idler Roller E Timing Belt G Snub Mount B Tensioner D Water Pump F Fan Switch

As you can see above the timing belt is involved with the operation of many engine functions.

In Audi engines, a timing belt failure causes an internal collision that usually results in bent or broken valves, and sometimes even a shattered piston. What would have been a couple hundred dollar job to replace the timing belt now becomes a major repair expense. At the very least, the cylinder head will have to be removed so the damaged valves can be replaced. If the head has additional damage (like damaged seats, guides or combustion chambers), further head repairs or replacement will be necessary. And if an open valve took out a piston? An overhaul or engine replacement may be required.

Valve/Piston Interference		No Valve/Piston Interference

Timing belts are made of synthetic rubber reinforced with tough fiber cords. As a belt ages, heat and friction cause the rubber to become hard and brittle. The cords inside can also fatigue and weaken. Given enough miles, the belt will eventually break - that you can count on. The risk of failure goes up sharply after about 90,000 miles. 

Determining the true condition of a timing belt isn’t easy for two reasons. One is that most timing belts are hidden beneath covers that must first be removed to inspect the belt. The second is that a simple visual inspection won’t necessarily tell you if a belt is good or bad. Some belts that look like new on the outside are dangerously weak on the inside and may fail without warning.

If you own an Audi with an interference type engine, German Car Specialists, Inc. recommends replacing your timing belt between 60,000 - 90,000 miles. We follow manufacturer recommendations.