Auto Repair & Services

Belts and Hoses

Belts and Hoses

Timing Belt

The timing belt, or cam shaft drive belt, is a notched rubber belt that allows the crankshaft of the engine to turn the camshaft. The camshaft opens and closes the intake and exhaust valves synchronously with the piston movement.

If your timing belt breaks, your engine will immediately stop running, leaving you stranded. Even worse, it may cause major engine damage. Generally, timing belts should be replaced every thirty to sixty thousand miles. Check with your professional Uptown Auto Service technician for the recommended replacement intervals of your specific engine.

 

Serpentine Belt

Serpentine belts, also known as drive belts, provide power to the air conditioning compressor, alternator, power steering pump, air injection pump, and more.

If your serpentine belt breaks, all these systems will stop working, leaving you stranded. It is important to have your serpentine belt inspected by your Uptown Auto Service technician.

He’ll look for cracks, wear, and fraying—all indications your serpentine belt may need replacing.

Warning signs of imminent failure may include a squealing noise coming from your engine, especially during start-ups or in a hard turn.

Studies have shown that serpentine belts most often fail between 36,000-50,000 miles. Uptown Auto Service recommends replacement at the first sign of wear.

 

Hoses

Coolant hoses include the upper and lower radiator hoses, heater hoses and, in some models, the water pump bypass hose.

Hoses provide a flexible connection for coolant flow between the engine and radiator and also to the interior heating system. Temperature, oxidation, and age will cause the hoses to deteriorate and potentially fail, leading to severe engine damage. A burst coolant hose will always leave you stranded.

Uptown Auto Service recommends having your vehicle hoses—and accompanying clamps—inspected twice a year.

 

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