Timing Belt Replacement in Castro Valley, CA at Mallard Auto Care

Mallard Auto Care offers complete Castro Valley auto maintenance and repair, including timing belt replacement. A timing belt (or timing chain in most recent auto designs) is crucial to the proper operation of an internal combustion engine. Its job is to synchronize the rotation of the crankshaft and the camshaft(s). Thanks to the timing belt valves open and close at the right time as each cylinder goes through its intake and exhaust cycle. If the vehicle has an interference engine, the timing belt’s function is also crucial in keeping the piston from striking the valves. In those engines especially, broken timing belt can result in severe engine damage, and subsequently, in very expensive engine repairs.

While the “rule of thumb” says that the timing belt should be replaced every 90,000-100,000 miles, we recommend that you check your owner’s manual as different manufacturers vary in their recommendations. Timing chains last considerably longer, though they may occasionally break, and they do stretch out a bit, so some vehicles will need to have their timing chains replaced. But in general, timing chains are supposed to last for the lifetime of the automobile.

Because of the severity of damage that can be sustained if the timing belt brakes, at Mallard Auto Care in Castro Valley we will inspect the timing belt whenever you bring your vehicle for service or repairs. It is a part of our complimentary digital vehicle inspection.

So if your vehicle is nearing the 100,000 mile mark, it’s time to plan for a timing belt replacement. Along with the timing belt, we recommend replacing the water pump – large part of the water pump replacement cost is in the labor – while we are working on the timing belt, the water pump is right there, so by changing the water pump at this point in time, you save considerable labor cost.

When you bring your vehicle to our Castro Valley auto repair shop, you will be greeted by our friendly service advisors, and can expect not only superior customer service, but also technical excellence, and a pleasant car repair experience. With services and repairs we offer:

  • Nationwide 3 years / 36,000 mile warranty
  • Free Digital Vehicle Inspection with an electronic copy for your records
  • Written quotes
  • ASE (nationally) certified mechanics working on your car
  • Free local Uber/Lyft service
  • Original Equipment or better quality parts

At Mallard Auto Care we offer comprehensive automotive repair services, so if your vehicle needs a new timing belt, or simply needs routine service, call us to make an appointment. You can also make an appointment on our website.

Prevent costly engine damage with a timely replacement.

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