Why is the timing belt on my Kia Sportage not working?
Loss of Fuel Mileage– Fuel mileage will suffer when the engine is no longer kept in time. Glazing and Dry-rot (Timing Belt Only)– If you are looking at the Sportage’s timing belt itself, check to see if the belt is glossy. It should grip your finger as you lightly brush across it.
Can a bad timing belt cause engine damage?
A bad timing beltor timing chain can be a serious issue. If it jumps a tooth, or breaks entirely it can lead to permanent engine damage. It’s important to know the symptoms of a bad timing belt or chain, so this doesn’t happen to your Kia Sportage.
How is the timing belt attached to the engine?
The timing belt is attached by way of a series of pulleys to the engine’s crank and cam shaft. The crankshaft powers the engine’s connecting rods which are attached to pistons inside the combustion chamber.
What does the tensioner do on a Kia Sportage?
The tensioners job is to keep the right amount of pressure on your Kia Sportage’s timing belt or chain. As the belt/chain stretches through normal operation, it would get loose and fall off or jump. The tensioner keeps this from happening by keeping a consistent amount of force on the belt.
However, if the issue is due to the timing belt being broken, it may also result in other internal engine compartment damage. In many cases, the timing belt will break while the engine is running.
Can a timing belt be replaced with a timing chain?
The timing belt is commonly found in cars and SUVs with smaller displacement engines. When an engine has a larger bore and stroke, most automotive manufacturers utilize a timing chain system that replaces the rubber belt with a metal chain. Generally, timing chains last longer than timing belts, with some rated to last the lifetime of the car.
Why does the timing belt make a ticking sound?
When the timing belt starts to wear out, it may create a ticking sound inside the motor. This warning sign may also be an indication of low oil pressure or the engine not having the proper amount of lubrication.