Q: Is it Necessary to Replace the Tensioner With the Timing Belt?

asked by on November 30, 2015

Is it necessary to replace the tensioner with the timing belt?

Timing Belt Replacement $318.59 - $1516.66 Get a Quote
Drive Belt Tensioner Replacement $149.81 - $643.33 Get a Quote

Automatic belt tensioners usually have a visible tension range indicator on the tensioner. When you install a new belt, check the tension indicator to verify that the arrow on the tensioner arm is pointing to the range on the tensioner base. If the tension indicator shows proper tension on the belt, no further service is necessary. However, if the tension indicator shows a belt that is below proper tension, a new tensioner must be installed.

If you’re not sure how to check your belt tensioner, or are unable to see the tensioner, the technicians at YourMechanic can check the components and replace the belt tensioner for you if necessary.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Driving with the hand brake pulled up
Hello. Usually when the E-brake is engaged and the vehicle is driven for a short amount of time, no damage will occur. But it is a possibility that you may have incurred heat damage to the shoes (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/brake-shoes-rear-replacement), pads (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/brake-pads-replacement),...
Turns over won't start. 2000 Chevy Metro
Hello. Sometimes there are torque specs that are required for tightening the rod bearings. If they are too tight or too loose, it could prevent the car from starting. I would check a Chilton Manual for the proper specs for...
Should I buy this 1997 BMW 528I
Hello. BMW makes a fantastic vehicle that, as you know is well known for its performance and luxury. With that comes a little more of a price tag in terms of maintenance and upkeep as with any performance or luxury...
I have a bad knock sensor. Is it worth replacing?
Hello. Yes, you are correct - the P0325 (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/p0325-obd-ii-trouble-code-knock-sensor-malfunction-sensor-1-bank-1-by-spencer-clayton) is indicative of a failed knock sensor (or the knock sensor wiring). I think it is a rare circumstance where you would not want to make this repair. It is straightforward...
Where does ignition usually draw its power? 89 wrangler with 94 chevy 350 and wiring. I'm not getting power to the key. 1989 Jeep Wrangler
Hello - usually power to the ignition switch (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-ignition-switch), engine swap or not, comes through the fuse block. So, first thing to check is the appropriate fuse for the ignition from the Jeep Owners Manual. With the engine swap, unless...
Coolant is dripping on the floor between the engine and wheel shaft.
Hello, there are several possible sources of coolant which can leak (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-often-do-i-need-to-top-off-my-coolant) to this position - coolant hose, freeze plug, cooling passage gasket, etc. I would recommend having a cooling system inspection (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/oil-fluid-leak-inspection) by a mobile, professional mechanic, such as...
MERCEDES C200 CGI BLUE EFFICIENCY AVANTGRADE
Hello there. We don't see a lot of Mercedes C200 CDI's here in the United States, so it's hard for us to give you an accurate review of this vehicle. Across the board, MB's are typically very reliable vehicles, however...
Trucks starts up but have to give gas to keep running then dies starts up a second time then it will stay running.
It sounds like you may have a dirty or failing idle air control valve. The idle air control valve (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/idle-control-valve-replacement) monitors the air intake as it is mixed with fuel prior to being injected into the engine at low speeds...
My 2006 Toyota Sienna is leaking oil between the engine and transmission. How much does it cost to fix it?
Hi there. It really depends on where the leak is coming from, and whether or not it's engine or transmission fluid that is leaking. The best way to determine the source and receive an estimate for repair is to have...

Related articles

How Do Drive and Serpentine Belts Work?
The The drive belt on your vehicle delivers power to the car’s engine, alternator, water pump, power steering pump, and air conditioner compressor. Usually, a car has one or two drive belts, and if there is only one, it is...
How Does a Timing Chain Work?
Your Your timing chain is absolutely essential to the operation of your vehicle. If it breaks, your car isn’t going to go anywhere, and you could end up with engine damage. So, how does the timing chain work, and what...
How Long Does an Alternator Belt Last?
Your Your car’s alternator is what delivers energy to your vehicle’s battery. It works by means of converting mechanical energy to electrical energy, taking power from the engine’s crankshaft and delivering it to the battery where it is stored. The...