Nissan Timing Belts

Timing Belts 101: Everything You Need to Know

For engine parts not to collide with each other, they have to move at the right times. Your Nissan vehicle likely has a simple rubber belt (if not a chain) that helps prevent that happening. It's called a timing belt or cambelt (or timing chain).

What One Does

It has one job: to synchronize the movements of the crankshaft and camshaft. When both harmonize, your ride's engine's pistons pump and its intake and exhaust valves open and close correctly.

Unfortunately, the belt or chain can degrade and fail, usually owing to use and age. Luckily, there are signs that'll let you know that's happening -- well before the worst occurs, too, most of the time.

The Symptoms of One Going Bad

Look for:

• Ticking sounds coming under the hood
• Oil leaks at the front of the engine
• Engine performance problems at lower rpm
• Excessive exhaust smoke and fumes
• Sudden engine misfires (usually indicative of belt slippage or breakdown)
• The engine not starting at all

If your timing belt fails, though, expect worse than this -- namely, misaligned timing, loss of engine power, engine failure, and worst of all, engine valves and cylinder head damage.

When to Change One

It's pretty easy to figure out. Just check your owner's manual. It should have a mileage benchmark. For many newer Nissan models, it's every 100,000 miles or so. For older ones, it's about every 60,000 miles. When it's time to buy a new one, though, be sure you order the genuine article.

Why Buy Genuine OEM Timing Belts

Nissan makes them guaranteed to fit its vehicles -- cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans alike. That's a fitment promise that not all aftermarket brands can make.

Where to Order a Replacement Nissan Timing Belt

Online, at our auto parts store. We're your one-stop shop for them, with a complete catalog you can browse. Sort it by model and model year to find the right fit. Buy now, and we'll ship to you ASAP; you'll have repairs done in no time.