Q&A for How to Tell if a Timing Belt Tensioner Is Bad

First, check that none of the teeth that the belt is riding on are worn. Worn teeth will dig into the belt and cause premature wear. Then, check each gear's bearing. The belt tensioner bearing is the most likely one to fail first, but it's usually the easiest to check and fix. With the belt off, spin the belt tensioner (which is usually the plain, smooth wheel on a spring loaded arm; the smooth side of the belt rides along it). A bad bearing will not spin as easily and/or will sound rough. Finally, check for rubbing. See if anything is rubbing against the belt, causing it to fail.

The timing chain tensioner is a part that requires a lot of work to change. That's caused by the necessary time to reach the tensioner and to synchronize the chain, which is in the engine, not as a belt that is external. Sometimes, to prevent maintenance, your mechanic can change the chain, as if the tensioner was bad, the chain may have some damage too, and a good mechanic would take a profit of the removal to change everything that may need some further costly maintenance or irreversible damage. As far as the mechanic being truthful about it leaking, you could take it to another mechanic for a second opinion and quote.

The kit is only necessary if you do not have the other parts or tools that it includes. If you have these items, you may replace the belt alone.

You could take it to a mechanic or replace the belt tensioner yourself and see if the noise stops.

The rattling noise can come from any number of things. Check the accessory belt for any bad tension, the exhaust manifold protection, the exhaust hangers, the engine mounts, and finally the engine itself for any problems.

It could be your fan belt that needs replacement. In my experience, the belt is the only cause of squealing. Check for wear and replace if necessary.

No. As long as your engine is currently running fine, then you just need to replace the timing belt.

Yes, it can. If the tensioner doesn't work properly, the belt can come loose and prevent the engine components from running. It can shut down the battery or cause the engine to overheat.

Check the pulley alignment inside the engine compartment. The tensioner or another belt, such as the alternator, may not be aligned properly with the belt. Replace the pulleys as needed so the belt runs smoothly. Also, make sure the belt is tight enough so it runs smoothly over the pulleys.

There could be a number of problems. Check the timing belt first for grinding, clicking, or other sounds. It could also be a fuel injector issue or something else entirely. Try to narrow down the source of the sound to identify the issue.

Check the tensioner, alternator, and other pulleys for damage. If the timing belt keeps breaking, one of those pulleys is probably responsible. Make sure they are well-aligned with the belt as well.

Bad timing could cause that amongst other things, possibly jumped a tooth. Don't drive and get it to a garage as it is not going to get better or go away on its own.