Timing is Everything (Timing Cover Replacement)
November 24, 2024
There’s an important part in your vehicle that shields your timing belt, timing chain or cam belt from the debris and gunk that can be kicked up from the road. It’s called the timing cover. It’s important because the timing belt or chain is what coordinates parts of your engine called the camshafts and crankshaft. When they’re in sync, all runs smoothly. When they’re not, it can cause some serious engine problems.
If your vehicle has a timing belt, without the protection of the timing cover, that belt can come loose from the timing gears or break. If your vehicle has a timing chain, the cover keeps engine oil circulating around it which lubricates it. When that starts to leak because of a bad gasket, the chain may not be getting adequate lubrication.
If your vehicle has a timing cover problem, you may notice engine oil leaking if a gasket is not sealing tightly. You may hear a strange metallic sound coming from the engine. Another sign that timing is off is that you notice you’re losing power when you’re going up a hill.
Usually, the timing cover will not wear out. But if you drive on roads where you’re getting a lot of debris and dirt kicked up into your engine compartment, the timing cover can get damaged and affect your vehicle’s operation. It eventually could lead to engine problems, so if you notice any of the symptoms mentioned, have one of our technicians inspect your timing cover and gasket.
Spartan Tire Brighton
4880 Old U.S. 23
Brighton, MI 48114
8102277377
Need Service?
More articles from Spartan Tire Brighton

The Car Fluid Most Drivers Forget—And Why It Matters
September 20, 2026
Heres an automotive part you might not be familiar withthe differential. Its a component that transfers power from the driveshaft to the wheels. Its called a differential because the left and right drive wheels travel at different speeds when you make a turn. During that turn, the wheel on the ... More

Smooth Moves
September 13, 2026
Stop for a moment and think of whats holding that heavy engine that sits under your vehicles hood to your vehicles frame. Your engine weighs hundreds of pounds, so its a big burden on those things that are holding it in place. Same is true for what holds your vehicles transmission in place. The... More

Keep It Smooth: Chassis Lubrication
September 6, 2026
If you have a truck, SUV or older car, chances are your vehicle has grease chassis fittings that need regular maintenance. Having them lubricated can give you a smoother, quieter ride and prevent more expensive repairs down the road. Its especially important on parts that have to move a lot, es... More
