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At HiQ Plymouth we are proud to be a Trading Standards and RAC approved garage. Here at HiQ Plymouth, we offer MOT'S, vehicle repairs and servicing for individuals, companies and businesses across Devon. We stock leading tyre brands such as Goodyear, Dunlop and Sava along with other leading tyre bra...
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UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT (01-04-2020) Stuart has been operating Motorcare in Southbourne for the last 15 years and has now expanded, buying out Super Service, in the middle of a global pandemic and moving in on April fools day! (seriously, this is not a joke) We aim to carry out the same great service ...
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Our highly trained technicians at Fast Fit Poole offer thorough and comprehensive car servicing for most makes and models of vehicles. We carry out all of our work in accordance to the manufacturer's specifications and use genuine / approved parts to avoid invalidating your warranty. In addition to...
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Bill Lomas Motor Services is a one-stop-shop in Blachford Road. Here, you can be confident you’ll receive exceptional service on every visit. We ensure that we cater to all of our customers and their vehicle’s needs. With over 30 years experience in the motoring industry, we are able to conduct serv...
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The Bosch Car Service network is a national network of independent garages. Each garage is well established in its own right and aims to keep its premises neat and tidy with clear Bosch Car Service signage, uniforms and equipment. They are an independently owned businesses with friendly staff, train...
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Marshall Motors SW LTD is an independently run business that prides itself on offering unrivaled sales, services, MOTs and mechanical repairs to its customers in the local area and further afield. We offer a comprehensive range of services so whether you need to book an MOT, have your car inspect...
A cambelt, also known as a timing belt, regulates the combustion process by synchronising your crankshaft and camshaft which, in turn, open and close the cylinder valves. A cambelt problem can be disastrous for your engine. Your car can’t work properly without this toothed belt - your engine parts will smash together more than 100 times a minute, causing irreversible damage.
That’s why you need to look after it properly and book a timing belt replacement when your car needs it.
You probably need a cambelt replacement if you notice any of the following warning signs:
However, your cambelt may not give any warning signs before failing. If it snaps, you will not be able to drive your car and you should not attempt to do so. Driving without a cambelt can cause serious engine problems, leading to a more expensive repair or irreversible damage.
The average UK cambelt change cost is £350. However, the make and model of vehicle you own does affect this price. For example, a Mercedes or Jaguar cambelt change costs more than Ford, VW or Vauxhall. In fact, it can cost as much as £1,200.
There are several reasons why a cambelt can fail but the main cause is old age. Every timing belt has a distinct lifespan and it is likely to snap when it reaches this mileage.
However, a cambelt can also fail due to:
While these problems can be caused naturally, an ineffective cambelt change can also lead to extra problems and expense. That’s why you should always choose a reputable garage near you for your replacement.
A cambelt change can be expensive, but only if you choose the wrong garage. When you need a timing belt replacement, compare and save with BookMyGarage. Just enter your reg number and postcode to see prices from garages near you and choose the best deal. Then, select a time and date to suit you to confirm the booking.
You can filter by reviews, distance, availability or price to keep you in control of your booking. What’s more, you always deal with the garage directly, there is no sign-up, unnecessary repairs or hidden extras and you never pay a penny until after your timing belt change is complete. Compare cambelt change costs on BookMyGarage and save up to 70%.
A timing belt usually lasts between 40,000 and 100,000 miles or 4-6 years. Each manufacturer recommends a different interval for a replacement, so you should check your vehicle handbook or manufacturer forums to find out yours.
During a car service, a mechanic will also advise you on your timing belt replacement intervals. If it is coming to the end of its lifespan, they will suggest a cambelt change as soon as possible.
A cambelt change takes between 3-6 hours. It is buried deep within the engine and so isn’t very accessible for the mechanic. This means that much of your timing belt cost is made up of labour costs.
Some vehicles use a timing chain to regulate the combustion process rather than a cambelt. This looks like a metal bicycle chain and requires lubricant to work. It is much more durable than a timing belt, lasting more than 200,000 miles if looked after well. However, you should book regular oil and filter changes and a timing chain service after 125,000 miles to keep it in good condition.
If your oil pressure falls too low, you may need to book a timing chain replacement. Common warning signs of this are:
Consult your vehicle handbook to find out whether your vehicle uses a timing chain or timing belt. Failing that, you can check your engine bay for a plastic cover on the right- or left-hand side of your engine. If you see this plastic cover, your car uses a timing belt. If not, it uses a timing chain.
To book a timing chain replacement near you, enter your reg number and postcode into our booking tool and compare garages in your area.
Driving in the South West
The South West contains some truly iconic destinations, including Stonehenge, the New Forest, the Eden Project and of course the fantastic beaches of the longest regional coastline in Britain. The region’s biggest city is Bristol, and other major conurbations include Plymouth, Bath, Swindon and Bournemouth.