Q: Should I replace the timing belt on my car?

asked by on May 18, 2016

My car has over 100,000 miles on it, and I have never had the timing chain replaced. Is that something that I should have replaced? What are the odds of the chain breaking? If it were to break, is the 1.8 L engine an interference or noninterference engine? Any input is helpful.

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

How do I secure the floor mats in place?
Certain floor mats are designed to be used on specific models. They should be secured in place so they don’t move around. Attach the floor mat by putting the retaining hooks into the eyelets on the floor mats. To secure...
Coolant leak in a 2004 Volkswagen Passat
Can you see where the coolant is leaking? How often are you having to add antifreeze, always remember when you're having to add coolant to a system, if you don't add at least a mixture of coolant you will dilute...
Put key in ignition, but nothing happens
The battery would of been drained after sitting for a year. The battery may have been drained to the point it may not be able to be charged and would need a replacement. Also the fuel in the car may...
Car makes sputtering noise
If your car is making grinding noise, and will not turn on then that is a sign that serious engine damage may have occurred. I would recommend having a professional technician, such as one from YourMechanic, listen to the noise...
Intermittently, car has high-pitched screeching in area of wheels
Hello. Your problem is likely due to abnormal wear on the pads (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/brake-pads-replacement) or rotors (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/brake-rotor-disc-replacement). If there are grooves or pits in the pads or rotors a noise may develop but the noise may not always be present. There's...
Check Engine Light is on - code P0405
This code could be caused by the EGR valve (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/exhaust-gas-recirculation-egr-valve-replacement), the EGR valve position sensor, a wiring or connector issue, or even a problem with the PCM. P0405 is set when the PCM sees a voltage reading below .35 volts....
Engine runs rough sometimes and then it cuts out.
Hi there. With the conditions that your vehicle is having is that the mass air flow sensor (MAF (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/mass-airflow-sensor-replacement)) is probably dirty and not functioning correctly. I recommend cleaning the mass air flow sensor with electrical cleaner and then putting...
Crankshaft pulley is wobbling after timing belt change, how can I correct this?
Hi there. The wobble in the crankshaft pulley/harmonic balancer may have been there prior to removal and wasn't noticed. There is no keyway, so missing the keyway is ruled out as a possibility. The harmonic balancer may have been bent...
Corrosion and battery acid on negative terminal connector.
Hi there. Poor electrical grounds can create unusual electrical problems. The corrosion at the negative battery terminal (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/service-battery-cables) is most likely, the result of a leaking battery (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/battery-replacement) and should be replaced. Not all code readers are German car friendly....

Related articles

2012 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2012 Ford Focus: Which One Should I Buy?
The Hyundai Elantra and the Ford Focus are both offerings in the inexpensive compact sedan category, and both represent some of the best offerings in that class. Compact cars are slightly larger than a subcompact, but smaller than a mid-size;...
2011 Dodge Ram vs. 2011 Ford F-150: Which One Should I Buy?
Large trucks can be fun to drive, and even more fun to get dirty. Unfortunately, they may also cause you to get phone calls from friends who need to move into a new apartment. Fortunately, just having a truck may...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You Live in a City
Living Living and driving in the city means you’re faced with parking constraints, narrow streets, and the constant stop and go of traffic. With all of that said when you’re ready to purchase a used vehicle these are all things...