Worthing | Sompting | West Sussex
Cambelt & Timing Belt Replacements
Your cambelt (also called a timing belt) keeps your engine running in sync. At Cedar Garage in Worthing and Sompting, we replace it to your manufacturer's schedule using quality parts, replacing the water pump too where it's driven by the belt. We also check and replace worn timing chains.
Understanding Your Cambelt
What Is a Cambelt and Why Does It Need Changing?
Your cambelt, or timing belt, keeps the camshaft and crankshaft moving together, so the engine's valves open and close at exactly the right moment as the pistons rise and fall. If the belt snaps or slips, the valves and pistons can collide, which often causes serious and costly engine damage. Because the belt sits hidden behind covers, it's very difficult to spot signs of wear before it fails, which is why we recommend replacing it strictly in line with the manufacturer's guidelines, typically every 4 to 10 years or roughly 40,000 to 100,000 miles, whichever comes first, depending on the make, model and engine.
Timing Chains
Timing Chain Replacement
Many modern engines use a metal timing chain instead of a rubber timing belt. Timing chains are built to last much longer and aren't replaced on a set schedule, but they can stretch over time, and the guides and tensioners that hold them in place can wear. A rattle on start-up, rough running or an engine warning light can all be signs your timing chain needs attention. If you notice any of these, book in early and our fault finding team can check it. We replace the timing chain, guides and tensioners in house, before a small problem turns into serious engine damage.
Why Your Cambelt Change Can't Wait
The risks of leaving it too late.
No warning signs
Sudden failure
Severe engine damage
Roadside breakdown
Expensive repair bills
Why Choose Cedar Garage?
See the difference in how we handle timing belt replacements
Tailored to Your Vehicle
Manufacturer's Schedule
We replace your timing belt exactly when it's due, based on your vehicle's specific service interval, not a generic one.
No Corners Cut
The Complete Kit
Every job includes the timing belt, tensioner and guide pulley, so nothing gets missed and nothing needs doing twice.
Full Transparency
No Hidden Extras
Where the water pump is timing belt driven, we replace it as standard, unlike some garages who leave it out of the quote.
Honest Pricing
The Price You're Quoted
What we quote is what you pay. No surprises once the work is underway.
Ready to book your cambelt change?
Whether it's due now or you're not sure when yours is due, our friendly Service Advisors are here to help.
Collection & Delivery
We can collect your vehicle and deliver it back to you.
Hire Cars Available
Stay on the road with our hire cars.
Smooth, Hassle-Free Service
We make the process easy from start to finish.
Case Studies
Our Latest Timing Belt Replacements
Frequently Asked Questions
Cambelt & Timing Chain FAQs
How often should my cambelt be changed?
Most manufacturers recommend changing it every 4 to 10 years or roughly 40,000 to 100,000 miles, whichever comes first, but it varies by make, model and engine. Give us a call with your registration number and we'll tell you exactly when yours is due. If your car is due a service, ask us to check at the same time.
What happens if my cambelt snaps?
In most engines, a snapped belt lets the pistons and valves collide, causing serious internal damage. The repair bill is usually far higher than a routine replacement would have been, and in some cases the engine can't be saved.
Can you tell if my timing belt is about to fail?
Not usually. The belt sits behind covers and rarely shows signs of wear before it fails, unless it's visibly cracked or damaged. That's why it's replaced on a schedule rather than when it looks worn.
Does my car have a cambelt or a timing chain?
It depends on the engine, and some versions of the same model use different systems. Give us your registration number and we'll check for you.
Do timing chains need replacing?
Timing chains aren't a service item, so they aren't replaced on a schedule. They can stretch over time though, and the guides and tensioners can wear. Unlike a cambelt, a timing chain usually gives some warning before it fails, such as a rattle on start-up, rough running or an engine warning light. If you notice any of these, book in for a check as soon as possible.
Should the water pump be replaced with the cambelt?
If your water pump is driven by the belt, we replace it as standard. A worn pump can leak or fail and damage the new belt, and because it sits in the same place, replacing both together saves you paying for the same labour twice.
I've bought a used car. How do I know if the cambelt has been changed?
Check the service history for a receipt or stamp showing the belt was replaced. If there's no record, it's safest to treat it as due. Our team can look at your car's details and advise you.
How long does a cambelt change take?
It depends on the engine, as some are far more involved than others. Give us your registration number and we'll let you know how long yours is likely to take. We also offer collection and delivery and hire cars, so you can stay on the road.
Do you offer a warranty on timing belt replacements?
Yes. Every cambelt and timing chain replacement we carry out is covered by our 12-month national warranty, so you're protected wherever you are in the UK. Our team can talk you through the full details when you book.
