How to Tell if a Timing Belt Tensioner Is Bad: 6 Steps (2024)

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Reviewed byCharley Helvy

Last Updated: September 12, 2023Approved

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• Question

  I have had to change my timing belt twice within a year. What could be the cause?

  

  Community Answer

  First, check that none of the teeth that the belt is riding on are worn. Worn teeth will dig into the belt and cause premature wear. Then, check each gear's bearing. The belt tensioner bearing is the most likely one to fail first, but it's usually the easiest to check and fix. With the belt off, spin the belt tensioner (which is usually the plain, smooth wheel on a spring loaded arm; the smooth side of the belt rides along it). A bad bearing will not spin as easily and/or will sound rough. Finally, check for rubbing. See if anything is rubbing against the belt, causing it to fail.

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• Question

  How can I know whether the mechanic has been truthful about the timing chain tensioner leaking and it costing $1000?

  

  Fouad Martin Yousfi

  Community Answer

  The timing chain tensioner is a part that requires a lot of work to change. That's caused by the necessary time to reach the tensioner and to synchronize the chain, which is in the engine, not as a belt that is external. Sometimes, to prevent maintenance, your mechanic can change the chain, as if the tensioner was bad, the chain may have some damage too, and a good mechanic would take a profit of the removal to change everything that may need some further costly maintenance or irreversible damage.As far as the mechanic being truthful about it leaking, you could take it to another mechanic for a second opinion and quote.

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  See Also

  What’s That Rattling Noise? How to Prevent Timing Chain Failure - Strut Daddy's

• Question

  Do I always have to get the "kit" for replacing the timing belt, or can I just replace the belt?

  

  Community Answer

  The kit is only necessary if you do not have the other parts or tools that it includes. If you have these items, you may replace the belt alone.

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