Belt and Hose Replacement in Timonium, MD
Professional Belt and Hose Replacement
Belts and hoses are responsible for the cooling and charging of your engine and the functioning of your air-conditioning system. Belts are responsible for starting your alternator, while hoses carry brake fluid, gas, air, and anti-freeze. They are an essential part of your vehicle operating smoothly. We are here to ensure your vehicle has all the components necessary to run effortlessly. Our team will take care of your automobile in a timely and trustworthy manner. We offer various services to get your vehicle back in top shape, including car hose and belt replacement. While you stop in for a check-up, feel free to examine our vast selection of tires and wheels.
The Different Types of Belts
in a Car
There are various types of belts that run through your vehicle. Each carries a significant portion of your car’s operational duties and needs to be in top shape to work properly. There are typically one to three belts that run through your vehicle.
- Timing belt: The timing belt controls the engine valves in time with the pistons. Without this belt, the car cannot run properly and may stop altogether.
- Serpentine belt: This belt runs throughout your car and assists all engine parts. This belt is responsible for your alternator, steering pump, conditioning compressor, and water pump.
- V-belts: Before serpentine belts became popular, older cars used V-belts for similar purposes. These days, they are primarily found in older engines.
How Often Do I Need to Replace the Belts in My Car?
Each belt has a different life expectancy. While V-belts should be changed every 30,000 miles, serpentine belts can last up to 100,000, and timing chains should be checked at least every 100,000 miles. An estimated time limit should be to replace your belts every four years. Taking your car in for regular maintenance can give you a better idea of your vehicle’s overall health. We offer regular maintenance and tune-ups to ensure your vehicle is up to date.
The Different Types of Hoses in a Car
Hoses are the veins of a car. Everything flows throughout the body to make a comfortable driving experience. While some contribute to comforts such as heat in your car, others are responsible for essential driving components such as gasoline distribution. There are four main types of hoses you may find in your vehicle.
- Fuel Hose: This distributes gasoline from the tank to the engine.
- Power Steering: Connects the steering pump to the necessary equipment to ensure proper steering capabilities.
- Heater Hose: This brings coolant to and from the heater core, making sure you stay warm in your car on those cold winter days.
- Radiator Hose: There are two radiator hoses in your car: upper and lower. They carry coolant between the engine and radiator and the water pump.
Signs of Worn Car Belts and Hoses
There are many easy ways to scan your belts and hoses for damage. While some of these include visible damage, other signs can be in the form of sounds. While belts deteriorate from the outside, hoses begin from the inside. Hoses can be challenging to diagnose since you cannot see any physical damage on the hoses themselves. The best option is to feel your hoses instead of visually examining them. Your car will let you know when there is an issue, so listen and look! We will run various diagnostic tests to answer those questions if you’re unsure what is wrong with your vehicle. If your car exhibits any of the following, it may be time to bring it to our shop.
- Chirping or squealing noises
- Cracks or bulges in the belt
- Fraying on the belt
- Unusual tension on the belt
- A soft-feeling hose (This should always feel firm)
Contact Hillen Tire and Auto Service Tire Pros
Hillen Tire and Auto Service Tire Pros have provided exceptional customer service in Timonium, MD, since 1917. We are a family owned company and we want to give you the best options available, including pricing. We offer coupons and roadside assistance for customers who purchase our services. Other services are also available, including differential repairs, oil changes, brake repairs, and tune-ups. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.