How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Timing Belt?

Average Cost Of A Timing Belt Replacement

The cost of a timing belt replacement generally is between $246 and $1248, depending on the vehicle's make and model and if the work is performed by a professional mechanic.

The average timing belt replacement cost across the 50 different models is $570.

Also, $100 to $200 can be added to the final cost if the water pump and the timing belt tensioner are replaced at the same time, which is generally recommended.

Timing belts can fail for a variety of reasons, often without warning. For this reason, a vehicle with a timing chain rather than a timing belt is sometimes preferred.

When a timing belt breaks, it can cause severe damage to the engine components. Hence, it is important to have it occasionally inspected by a mechanic.

Check your vehicle's owner's manual for the recommended replacement interval.

Factors Affecting Timing Belt Replacement Cost

Before we get to the data, it is important to remember that several factors affect the cost of a timing belt replacement. They include:

Make And Model

Make and model can play a significant role in the timing belt replacement cost, as seen in the tables below.

Although not always the case, typically, domestic makes are cheaper to repair than their foreign counterparts.

Quality Of Parts

Parts make up a small percentage of a timing belt replacement cost compared to labor.

A timing belt kit is often purchased, containing a new timing belt and other components such as a water pump, idler pulley, and belt tensioner.

Still, there is a significant difference between OEM (Authentic Manufacturer) and aftermarket parts which are often cheaper but usually at the cost of quality and reliability.

Manufacturers recommended using OEM parts for timing components as failure is usually costly.

Location

Depending on the state you are in, shop time can vary drastically.

Labor Cost To Replace A Timing Belt

If you are handy and resourceful, you can perform a timing belt change (timing belt job) yourself, saving yourself hundreds of dollars in labor costs.

But a word of warning, timing belt changes are time-consuming, require special tools, and are somewhat complicated.

Mistakes can lead to catastrophic engine failure leading to extremely costly engine repairs or even engine replacement.

Before embarking on a timing belt change, watching a few youtube tutorials on your particular make and model is recommended to make sure you are up to the task.

Timing Belt Replacement Cost By Make And Model

Below is a table detailing the timing belt repair costs of various models of popular vehicles in the United States. We pulled the data from RepairSmith.com.

Please Note: The costs include the parts and labor for a timing belt replacement only. In addition, please account for an extra $100 to $200 for a water pump and tensioner service (highly recommended).

Can I Replace A Timing Belt Myself?

Yes, it is possible to replace a timing belt yourself, but it is a very involving job.

Please do due diligence by reading appropriate literature and watching tutorials online to ensure you are up to the task.

It is advisable to get the timing belt replacement done by a professional mechanic in most cases.

Is It Worth Fixing A Timing Belt?

Yes, it is definitely worth fixing a timing belt.

A timing belt is a critical component of your vehicle's timing system. Timing belt failure will lead to the engine not running and oftentimes will lead to catastrophic engine damage.

What Are The Symptoms Of A Bad Timing Belt?

Often there are no warning signs before a timing belt fails, but you can look out for:

Most engines with a timing belt have a timing belt inspection hole you can look through to see if your timing belt is cracking or soaked in coolant or oil.

If your timing belt is worn out or stretched, it may skip a gear on one of the timing pulleys, which will cause the engine to run rough.

A timing belt tensioner will often make a ticking sound when it wears out. A worn-out tensioner may lead to your timing belt slipping and consequent engine damage.

When your timing belt reaches its recommended service interval, generally 60,000 to 105,000 miles depending on your vehicle's model (check the owner's manual or with a professional mechanic), it becomes more at risk of failing.

Will A Broken Timing Belt Destroy My Engine?

A broken timing belt may destroy your engine depending on whether your vehicle's engine is an interference engine.

Research the timing belt data of your vehicle to check whether your vehicle has a timing belt, recommended mileage to change your timing belt, and whether it is interference or not.

What Is The Difference between Timing Belt And Serpentine Belt?

The main difference between a timing belt and a serpentine belt is that a timing belt synchronizes the timing between pistons and valves. In contrast, the serpentine belt drives the engine accessories such as AC, alternator, power steering pump, cooling fan, etc.

For more detailed information, check our Timing Belt Vs. Serpentine Belt - Differences Explained blog post here.

Where Can I Get My Timing Belt Changed?

We recommend getting your timing belt changed at a reputable mechanic that guarantees their work.

Conclusion

How much it costs to replace a timing belt depends on various factors, including the make and model of your vehicle and which part of the country you live in, but generally, a timing belt job comes out to around 800 dollars.

If a timing belt breaks, it can lead to catastrophic engine damage, so it is vital to get it inspected regularly by a qualified mechanic and get it replaced before the recommended service interval as laid out in your vehicle's owner's manual.

Engines with timing belts require more maintenance than engines with timing chains, so it may be prudent to purchase a vehicle with a timing chain the next time you buy a vehicle.