Replacing the timing belt on your Volvo can alleviate many fears and concerns, especially if you’re gearing up for an adventure or trip. If you just purchased a Volvo and you’re unsure when the timing belt was replaced we recommend erring on the side of caution and replacing.
Timing belt kits normally consist of a timing belt, idler pulley, and tensioner. The timing belt races around these pulleys and gears keeping the valvetrain of your engine in check. The timing belt plays a critical role in your cooling system too. Timing belts often drive the water pump for your Volvo’s engine. If any of these components fail, the damage can be catastrophic to your cylinder head and internal engine components.
Timing belt intervals range from 70K-110K miles, depending on which model you have.
While it is possible to replace the timing belt on its own, we strongly recommend replacing the associated components that support the timing belt as well such as tensioner/idler pulleys and water pump. There’s nothing worse than paying a technician, or spending an afternoon replacing a timing belt only to have a bearing fail soon after.