Cambelts

Overview

The cambelt (also called a timing belt) keeps the engine's valves and pistons working in time with each other. If it slips or breaks while the engine is running, the pistons hit the valves and the engine is generally cooked. Replacing the belt at the right interval — usually every 100,000 to 150,000 km, depending on the make — is one of the most worthwhile maintenance jobs you can do.

When we replace a cambelt, we always include the tensioner, idler pulleys, and the water pump if it's driven off the belt. That's because all of those parts are at the same age as the belt — and the labour to replace the belt later is exactly the same. Doing them together is the smart, cheap-in-the-long-run option.

What we cover

• Cambelt (timing belt) replacement to manufacturer spec
• Tensioner and idler pulleys replaced as a kit
• Water pump replaced when driven by the timing belt
• Crankshaft and camshaft seals checked and replaced if leaking
• Auxiliary (drive) belt also replaced as a matter of course
• Coolant refilled and bled where the water pump was changed
• Engine timing checked and verified after refit

Get your cambelt looked at if…

• You're approaching the manufacturer's interval (check your service book)
• You've bought a used car and don't know when it was last done
• Whining, ticking or rattling from the front of the engine
• Coolant leak from the timing cover area
• Engine running roughly or losing power
• Visible cracking or fraying on the belt

Our approach

We'll confirm your interval from the manufacturer data, give you a fixed quote including all the parts that should go with the job, and complete the work usually within a day. The car comes back with engine timing verified and a clean cooling system.

Why us, here in Kapiti

We always quote the full belt-kit-and-water-pump combo up-front. No surprises mid-job, no "oh by the way you should also…" — you know the whole bill before we start.