Q: New timing belt needed

asked by on May 25, 2016

Yesterday, my dealership told me that my car needs a new timing belt due to the fact that the rubber belt dries/rots over time. He also told me that the engine could be seriously damaged if the belt were to break. This seems like very odd information to me. I've searched the owner's manual and visited Acura online and I just don't find anything like what he told me. Any advice you can give on this subject would be greatly appreciated!

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

What should I know about loading cargo and luggage on the roof luggage carrier?
If your car is equipped with a roof luggage carrier, you’ll find that it offers a significant amount of additional cargo space than what’s available in the cargo compartment alone. Of course, there are several things that you need to...
What does the passenger air bag off light mean in a 2012 Toyota Corolla?
The Passenger Air Bag Off light is located on the center console, with the rest of the front passenger indicators. This light will illuminate when the seat sensor detects that a child or child restraint system is in the front...
Overheating
Hello, thanks for writing in. It sounds like the heater core and radiator core may be partly clogged. Have the flow through the radiator checked using a laser pointing temperature probe. If you find the radiator flow through the cores...
Overheating
This can be caused by a number of things such as low coolant levels or a failing coolant fan switch. As you may know the coolant fan switch (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/cooling-fan-relay-replacement) helps to maintain the proper coolant temperature by turning on and...
My car did not start after recently replacing the battery
Hi there. Although we don't currently have mobile mechanics in BC and can't recommend a service we can offer, there are a few things you might want to have a local mechanic inspect. First, on your Nissan Altima, there is...
Whining noise coming from the engine compartment when I accelerate. It's not very loud but consistent whenever I give it gas. 2009 Audi A5 Quattro
Hello - you have isolated the noise to something that varies with engine speed, good job! Most likely, this noise is coming from the alternator (bearing) or the power steering pump (low fluid or worn out). Check the power steering...
Firestone said I need to replace the left-outer tie rod ends. But, I'm not noticing any of the signs mentioned for this problem.
Hello, thank you for writing in. With the issues you are having, the only way to confirm the issues is with another inspection. When it comes to the shifting issue, you want to check the transmission fluid level. If it...
Rattling noise in the back driver wheel area.
Hello, thank you for writing in. The bottom line is that you need to find out where exactly that noise is coming from. If you suspect the noise is related to the wheel or the suspension start there. Press down...
Ac condensation leaks a lot of water from drainage tube outside under yukon 2005, even if I haven't driven it in a day, is this ok
You will see varying amounts of condensation draining from the a/c drain depending how much humidity is in the truck. This is normal. The larger amount you see if just an indication of how much humid air is being removed...

Related articles

Common Signs Your Drive Belt Is Misaligned
Drive Drive belt problems usually manifest as noise. If you have a noisy drive belt, it’s important to know what’s causing it so that it can be fixed. That means you have to listen. If the drive belt or serpentine...
How Does a Timing Belt Work?
The The timing belt is a belt made of rubber that keeps your camshaft and your crankshaft synchronized so that your valve timing is always right. Some vehicles have a timing chain instead of a belt, but it serves the...
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Acura TL
The The 2012 Acura TL has softened features, great fuel economy, and an overall fresh feel compared to past model years. The interior has an elegant and sporty feel to it making it comfortable to ride in. Furthermore, it costs...