Back to all

Got it Covered! (Timing Cover Maintenance)

August 22, 2021

You may have heard at one time or another about something called a timing belt or timing chain in your engine.  And you may know that if they fail… well, let's just say that there can be some major engine damage.  So obviously, we want our timing belts and chains to be in tip-top shape.

One part that helps keep them running the way they should is the timing cover.  As you can probably guess, it's something that covers the belt or chain.  The timing cover protects both belts and chains from dirt and road debris.  Timing belts also need to be lubricated so their covers allow them to be lubricated as well.  They have a gasket that insures a good seal for the engine.  If that gasket breaks or develops a leak, then engine oil can escape, and loss of lubrication is never good for an engine component.

Other symptoms of a failed timing cover are leaking coolant, a metallic sound coming from the front of your engine or your Check Engine light coming on.  You might also notice a drop in power when you're going uphill.

It's important that your timing cover be in good condition and functioning properly.  Your repair facility will check out that part of your engine to make sure gaskets are in good shape and the cover is doing the job it's meant to do.  Catch that leaking or broken timing cover in time and your engine will thank you for avoiding some serious damage and an expensive repair.

Spartan Tire Brighton
4880 Old U.S. 23
Brighton, MI 48114
8102277377

Need Service?

Request a Quote

More articles from Spartan Tire Brighton

Today’s Headlights: Brighter, Smarter… and Harder to Replace

June 21, 2026

Maybe youre old enough to remember when headlights were essentially all the same on every vehicle. They were so cheap and easy to replace, most people could do it themselves. Those days are gone. Now, headlights put out more and better light and are more efficient. Those all contribute to bet... More

Tread Carefully: What Normal Tire Wear Looks Like

June 14, 2026

Every day we get in our vehicle and drive, we are putting wear and tear on our tires. Some wear is, of course, normal, but its important to know whats NOT normal. Not only can that alert you to potential safety issues, I can also save you money and fuel. Your tires tread (the part that contacts t... More

The Untold Truth About Blinker Fluid: Why Your Car Desperately Needs It

May 10, 2026

If youve been ignoring your dashboard, your mechanic, and that one guy at the gas station who muttered bro your blinkers sound dry, then buckle up because today we dive into the critical world of blinker fluid maintenance. What Is Blinker Fluid? Blinker fluid is a high-viscosity, luminescent com... More