What Is a Timing Belt and When Is It Time for a Replacement? When it comes to car maintenance, some tasks—like oil changes—get all the attention. But other important maintenance items, like replacing your timing belt, often fly under the radar. Many car owners aren’t even sure what a timing belt is or when it needs replacing. Don’t worry! We’re here to break it down for you. What Is a Timing Belt? Simply put, a timing belt is essential to your engine’s functionality. It synchronizes the rotation of the engine’s camshaft and crankshaft, ensuring that each cylinder fires at the right time. To make it easier: imagine the timing belt like the chain on a bicycle. If the chain breaks or becomes loose, the bike won’t move. The same is true for your car—the timing belt keeps all the internal parts of your engine working in sync. Needless to say, it’s crucial to keep your timing belt in good shape. When to Replace Your Timing Belt? Every car is different, but as a general rule, most manufacturers recommend replacing your timing belt every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, or 6 – 8 years regardless of mileage. However, there are some warning signs that could indicate your timing belt is failing: 1. Engine Won’t Start There are several reasons why your engine might not start, but a broken or worn timing belt could be one of them. Timing belts are made of rubber with teeth, and if the belt breaks or the teeth wear down, they can no longer grip the gears, stopping your engine from turning over. If your engine won’t start, bring it to Team Ryan Automotive , and we’ll diagnose the issue. 2. Squealing Sounds Squealing sounds are never normal, and if they occur while accelerating, braking, or idling, they could indicate a failing timing belt. If this happens, the sooner you replace the timing belt, the better it will be for both your car and your wallet. 3. Engine Misfiring A failing timing belt can cause your engine to misfire because the belt controls the timing of the engine. If the timing is off, the engine may misfire, which can cause serious engine damage. If you notice misfiring, visit our auto maintenance services to prevent further damage. 4. Ticking or Clicking Sounds If you hear ticking or clicking sounds coming from your engine, it could be a sign that the timing belt is failing. It might also indicate low oil pressure, which can affect your timing belt’s performance. Don’t wait—get your car checked by our experts at Team Ryan Automotive . Schedule Your Timing Belt Inspection Today! If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs, don’t hesitate to give us a call or schedule an appointment . We’re here to help with all your car repair and maintenance needs, including timing belt replacements and inspections. At Team Ryan Automotive , we’ll ensure your car stays in top shape!

Squeaky Brakes: What Do They Mean? Have you noticed a squeak when you hit the brakes? Don’t panic—squeaky brakes don’t always mean your brake pads need to be replaced. Let's explore what could be causing that sound and when it’s time to take action. Should Brake Pads Make Noise? If your brake pads are a little squeaky, it’s not necessarily a cause for concern. Your brakes will still function properly. However, it’s important to stay aware of what’s causing the noise to ensure it doesn’t indicate a larger problem. One common reason for squeaky brakes is moisture. Have you ever noticed your brakes squeaking after a rainy or dewy morning? That’s perfectly normal. Moisture causes a thin layer of rust to form on the rotors, which may lead to some noise until the rust wears off after a few stops. Another cause of squeaky brakes is the material of the brake pads. Modern brake pads are often made from ceramic, which can cause a bit of noise when interacting with cast iron rotors. While this sound can be normal, semi-metallic brake pads tend to be quieter, which is a great alternative if the noise bothers you. The Difference Between Abnormal and Normal Brake Noises When it comes to brakes, it’s important to be cautious. There’s a big difference between normal and abnormal brake noises. For example, the noise caused by moisture, which goes away after a few stops, is completely normal. However, if the noise persists, it’s time to investigate further. Signs of Abnormal Brake Noises: Grinding: If you hear a grinding noise (metal-on-metal), it’s a clear sign that your brake pads may be completely worn down. If you experience this, visit Team Ryan Automotive for our brake repair service immediately. Vibrations: If squeaking is accompanied by vibrations in the brake pedal or steering wheel when applying the brakes, or if you notice a burning smell near your tires, it could indicate serious brake or tire issues. It’s important to get both your brakes and tires inspected. Brake Warning Light : If your brake warning light flashes, it’s crucial to schedule a brake repair inspection right away. If you experience any of these abnormal brake noises or signs, visit Team Ryan Automotive for a thorough inspection. Free Brake Inspection with Every Oil Change Here’s a helpful tip: Did you know we include a free brake inspection with every oil change ? This added service ensures that your brakes are always in optimal condition. If you’ve noticed squeaky brakes or any signs of trouble, contact us online or schedule an appointment with Team Ryan Automotive. We also recommend considering wheel alignment or auto maintenance services to keep your vehicle in top shape.