Tips for Replacing the Timing Belt in a Dodge Neon

The timing belt for any car, specifically a Dodge Neon, plays a vital role in the car’s ability to function. The timing belt is responsible for keeping the engine running smoothly and the car moving swiftly. If the timing belt ever loses its grip and breaks, it can seriously affect the engine. Worse, once the engine stops functioning, the car is no longer useful for someone who needs to drive. However, there is hope for bringing your Dodge Neon back to life. It will require time, patience, and money to replace a timing belt. Read on for tips on replacing your Dodge Neon timing belt.

Determine Why Your Timing Belt Popped

As you are looking under the hood of your Dodge Neon, you are likely to notice that the timing belt came off. However, before you start panicking, you should consider the reasons for this occurrence. One possibility is that you have not had maintenance done on the car in a while; therefore, the problem could have been prevented. Another possibility is that you recently had the timing belt repaired, but it was done incorrectly. By sorting out the possibilities in your mind, it will help you prevent the problem from happening again in the future.

Consider the Engine Size

As most cars, a Dodge Neon will have different engine sizes, which will depend on the year and body style of the vehicle. For example, an older model of a Dodge Neon from 1996 will have an engine size of 2.0. However, the engine size of a Dodge Neon made in 2002 is 3.2. It is important to know the engine size of your vehicle because it will help to determine if the timing belt fell off because it did not fit around the valves of the engine.

Think About Different Brands

There are two types of products that are available for purchase, name brand and off-brand. Timing belts are no exception. Before replacing the timing belt, you should decide what brand you would want to buy. For some drivers, this is a difficult decision because name-brand items are more expensive than off-brand ones. On the other hand, off-brand timing belts are less expensive, but they are also known for not fitting correctly on the engine and breaking down within a few weeks of use.

Check for Engine Damage

When a timing belt pops inside an engine, the belt will damage other parts of the engine as well, such as the valves. Due to the timing belt losing its grip, it will either bend or tear off valves. If this is the case with your Dodge Neon, you will need to be sure to replace the valves first before installing a new timing belt in your vehicle.

Understand the Timing Belt Installation Process

Car repair technicians and mechanics are able to quickly repair or install auto parts because they are trained in this area of expertise. Furthermore, if you only have a general knowledge of cars and you are attempting to replace the timing belt, you will need to be sure that you understand the directions provided for you in the owner’s manual of your vehicle. Thus, you should set aside a reasonable amount of time to repair your Dodge Neon so that you do not make any mistakes.

When your Dodge Neon suddenly becomes unmovable, it can cause panic in your mind. Once you calm down, though, you will realize that the problem can be fixed; however, it will require money, time, and patience. If you are attempting to install a timing belt on your own, you should consider the engine size and brand of timing belt you will need to purchase. Although it is true that off-brand items are cheaper, the longevity of the timing belt may only last a few weeks to a few months if you purchase off-brand items. Even if you decide to take the easy road and let a professional car mechanic install the belt, it is still helpful to know why the timing belt is a vital part of the car’s engine.