Cambelt vs Timing Belt vs Timing Chain: 10 Things You Need to Know

Keeping important components of the motor working in sync, your car’s cambelt regulates your engine’s timing.

Most cars use either a cambelt (also known as a timing belt) or a timing chain, and some use a wet belt that runs inside the engine.

As this part is located deep within the engine, chances are you don’t know much about it – even though this part could end up being costly to replace if not treated with care.

Read on and learn what makes a timing belt different from a timing chain, what these parts do, and when you should have them replaced.

What is a Cambelt?

Made of rubber or polyurethane, a cambelt – or a timing belt - is a belt with teeth.

For extra strength, the timing belt in a car is made with nylon-reinforced cords.

When a cambelt is replaced, most garages fit a full kit (the belt, tensioner and idler pulleys) rather than the belt alone. On many engines, the cambelt also drives the water pump.

The cambelt will stretch over time and become less efficient.

If not properly taken care of, the material the belt is made from can dry out and snap violently, which can cause serious damage to the engine.

What Does a Cambelt Do?

Located in the front of your engine bay, the cambelt controls the timing of the engine’s internal combustion components.

With teeth designed to keep the camshaft and crankshaft in time, the timing belt can control the opening and closing sequence of the valves and cylinders.

A cambelt. 

Without a functioning cambelt, the engine can’t run, so it is worth taking care of this crucial component.

If your car’s cambelt fails, then you may need to replace the valves, pistons or any number of other expensive engine parts.

What is a Timing Chain?

Unlike cambelts, a timing chain will usually be made from metal links.

Timing chains are found in the engine and are lubricated by engine oil.

A timing chain. 

What Does a Timing Chain Do?

Resembling a linked bicycle chain, the teeth on the timing chain will grab onto the different wheels and gears which power your engine.

A timing chain synchronises the rotation of the camshaft and crankshaft. 

A four-stroke engine works on a cycle with four strokes within each one:

1. Intake stroke

2. Compression stroke

3. Power stroke

4. Exhaust stroke

The timing chain performs the accurate operation of the cycle at the right time of its strokes. 

If you have an issue with the timing chain, the pistons and valves won't work properly, resulting in a costly repair. 

Is There a Difference Between Timing Chains and Timing Belts?

The biggest difference between timing chains and timing belts is the material which they are made from.

Timing chains are generally more durable than belts as they are made from a stronger material, and can last the life of the car.

However, a timing chain can still stretch over time, and worn guides or damaged gears can also cause problems. Regular oil changes with good-quality oil help keep it in good condition.

Does My Car Have a Cambelt or a Timing Chain?

You can refer to your vehicle’s handbook to find out whether or not your engine has a timing belt or a timing chain.

Whether your car has a cambelt or a timing chain depends on its engine, not just the make and model, so the same model can have either.

If you're not sure, your garage can tell you which your car has.

When Should You Change a Timing Chain?

Unlike a cambelt, a timing chain doesn't need replacing at a set interval. It only needs replacing if there's a problem, and it can last the life of your car.

Be sure to invest in regular oil changes to keep it well-lubricated.

Is My Timing Chain Bad?

Your timing chain could be faulty if you notice any of the following warning signs:

• A rattling sound

• Misfiring engine

• Metal shavings in your engine oil

• An illuminated check engine light

• Engine won't start

Is My Timing Belt Bad?

Your timing belt may be bad if you notice any of the following warning signs:

• A misfiring engine

• Rough idling

• Car won't start

• A squealing noise

How Much Does a Timing Belt Replacement Cost (UK)?

In the UK, a cambelt change typically costs between £300 and £700, although your price will depend heavily on your car.

The cambelt replacement cost will vary depending on labour rates and the type of vehicle you drive.

Expensive labour costs can significantly increase the price, as could the make and model.

Have your cambelt checked regularly to measure its condition and keep on top of any signs of failure.

A cambelt replacement should only be attempted by an experienced mechanic.

A botched repair could ruin your car and end up costing you more in the long-run, so it is always best to leave these jobs to the experts.

How Much Does a Timing Chain Replacement Cost (UK)?

In the UK, a timing chain replacement typically costs between £750 and £1,000, though some makes cost more.

The price can vary depending on your vehicle's make and model.

How Much Does a Water Pump Replacement Cost?

Located in the engine bay, the water pump is designed to pump water and coolant around the cooling system to prevent the engine from overheating.

A water pump replacement typically costs between £150 and £450.

Booking a water pump replacement and cambelt change together can actually save you time and money.

On many engines, the cambelt also drives the water pump and both sit behind the same covers, so replacing them together saves paying for the same labour twice.

The old water pump is in the mechanic's hand and the new water pump resting on the engine.

If you would like to compare prices on a cambelt and water pump replacement near you, simply enter your reg number and postcode into BookMyGarage.

Book with the garage that suits you and find a great deal on a cambelt replacement today.