Timing belt replacement is a critical preventive maintenance item
which MUST be performed ON TIME and ONLY by EXPERTS! That
statement is not a sales pitch, let us explain why. First of all,
when a timing belt fails, the engine dies, stranding you. Even worse,
on most Volvo models since 1993, when the belt breaks the valves hit
the piston, often causing $$$thousands of dollars of engine damage.
Next problem is that there are several different model Volvos, all
of which have different belt replacement intervals. Most older Volvos
(prior to '93) are replaced every 50,000 miles, some '92 & '93's should
be replaced every 30,000, newer cars every 70,000. As you can see,
it might be easy for a well meaning shop to make an incorrect
recommendation, which could create disaster for you! Also, it is no
longer as simple as replacing the belt at the correct time that is
important. There are other issues that must be addressed during belt
replacement:
1. Tensioners and Idler Rollers should be replaced in most cases
each time, especially on vehicles with longer 70,000 mile intervals.
We have seen several timing belts fail prematurely due to a faulty
tensioner bearing that was not replaced at the previous belt interval.
It is not that the repairing facility did a poor job, they were simply
not informed as to the specific details of what is recommended.

2. The condition of the timing belt protective shrouds is also critical,
as they are made of plastic, which becomes brittle with age and small
pieces will chipoff and fall into the belt, causing belt failure.

3. Finally, when replacing a timing belt, now is the time to look
closely at the oil seals on the camshafts which are driven by the belt.
If they are seeping it will be cost effective to replace them now as
opposed to coming back into the timing cover a short time later to
address an oil leak, and basically start all over. Why pay to do the
same job twice?

Please call us for the detailed recommendation on your Volvo.