That’s why over the course of assisting 40,000 people get this repair done, we’ve found that the average timing belt replacement costs $948–$956. Bundling the water pump, tensioner and idlers is recommended and lands the total around $700–$1,500.
Real customers Jerry has helped
Costs for getting your timing belt replaced depend on your exact vehicle, where you live and the quality of oil used. With Jerry, you can quickly see what drivers are paying right now. Below are real examples of customers we’ve helped secure top prices for when they need their timing belt replaced.
Estimates are modeled based on real vehicle and location data; names have been changed. Actual prices will vary by shop, parts, and vehicle condition.
Cost breakdown: Why the price varies
A few core factors swing the price—understanding them helps Jerry customers plan:
Vehicle and engine layout:
Inline-4s are simpler; tight transverse V6s add hours. Layout alone can shift totals by hundreds.
Access and labor time:
Engines that require removing mounts or multiple accessories add 2–3 hours.
What’s included:
Belt-only might save $100–$250 today, but risks repeat labor. Full kits add $100–$300 in parts and prevent failures.
Water pump add-on:
If belt-driven, add $100–$300 for the pump at minimal labor. Skipping can get expensive later.
Interference vs. non-interference:
A proactive $800 belt can prevent a $3,000+ cylinder head repair.
Parts quality:
OE/OE-supplier kits (Aisin, INA, Gates, NTN, KOYO) cost ~$50–$150 more but are trusted for longevity.
Region and shop type:
Dealer labor can be 20% – 40% more; some independents offer equal or better 24/24 warranties. You can compare the different price points while getting local, phone-free quotes in the Jerry app.
Preventive vs. failure repair:
Planned service minimizes surprises; a tow-in failure adds diagnostics, extra parts and potential engine damage.
Taxes and fees:
Expect a line for coolant, shop supplies and disposal—commonly 5% – 12% on top of the estimate.
What is a timing belt?
The timing belt is a reinforced rubber belt that synchronizes the crankshaft and camshaft(s) so valves open/close at the right time. On interference engines, correct timing prevents valve-to-piston contact. Belts are toothed, run behind covers and have set replacement intervals—commonly 60,000 – 105,000 miles or 7 – 10 years due to rubber degrading with heat, oil and age.
Many modern engines use a timing chain. Chains run in oil and generally last longer, but guide/tensioner service can be costly. Verify your engine by VIN before budgeting.
Note: Timing chains are longer-lived but pricier when serviced, so timing belt vs. timing chain cost can differ significantly.
Signs you need a timing belt replaced
There aren’t always early warnings, so follow the interval. However, common signs of a bad timing belt can include:
- Age or mileage at/over interval: Overdue belts are a risk on interference engines.
- Ticking or slapping at the timing cover: Tensioner/belt wear can alter tracking.
- Rough running, misfires or poor acceleration: A slipped notch alters valve timing; you may see cam/crank correlation codes like P0016/P0017/P0341.
- Oil leaks near the timing cover: Leaky cam/crank seals contaminate the belt.
- Coolant leak at the front of the engine: Belt-driven pump seepage or wobble.
- No-start after a sudden stall: A broken belt often sounds like a free-spinning starter and can cause internal damage on interference engines.
If these symptoms appear, avoid hard driving and run a diagnostic in the Jerry app to see if you need to get your car inspected. When in doubt, tow it.
Your action plan: How to save money
A little planning goes a long way toward lowering your timing belt repair cost:
Time it with maintenance:
If your interval aligns with coolant, thermostat or accessory belt wear, bundle them to avoid duplicate labor.
Ask for the full timing kit:
Tensioners and idlers are wear items—replace them now to prevent a second teardown.
Replace the water pump if it’s belt-driven:
It’s cheap insurance while the system is open.
Compare reputable parts:
Prioritize OE/OE-equivalent brands (Aisin/INA/Gates/NTN/KOYO). Small savings on off-brand kits can cost more later.
Get multiple quotes for a timing belt estimate:
Rates vary by shop. Compare quoted labor hours to factory flat-rate and ask about warranty terms (aim for 24 months/24,000 miles if possible).
Don’t miss the interval:
Rubber ages. If your manual says seven years or 105,000 miles (whichever comes first), treat time like miles.
Confirm the scope:
Estimates should list belt, tensioner, idlers, seals, pump (if applicable), thermostat, coolant, accessory belts and taxes/fees. Clear scope = fewer surprises.
Related repairs
Maintenance reminders in the Jerry app help remind customers that timing belt repairs are often paired with:
- Timing components: Belt, tensioner, idlers and cam/crank seals.
- Water pump and thermostat: If the pump is belt-driven, bundle it; thermostat resets the cooling system baseline.
- Accessory/serpentine belt(s): They’re already off—parts-only add.
- Coolant and fresh gasket/sealant: Required after a pump job.
- Valve cover gasket(s): If leaking near the timing area.
Note: Some engines add items like a balance shaft belt. If a belt fails on an interference engine, a cylinder head rebuild may be required.
DIY vs. Pro: Can I do this myself?
DIY is possible for experienced wrenches, but there’s little margin for error—especially on interference engines. Jerry’s expert mechanics recommend getting this repair done at a shop unless you have extensive DIY experience.
It was a reminder that while preventive maintenance done on things like timing belts and even tire rotations doesn’t always feel urgent, neglect can turn a small bill into a large one.
Ready to compare quotes, confirm scope and lock in a fair price? Download the Jerry app and plan your timing belt service with confidence.
What our customers are asking
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How long does a timing belt replacement take?
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Do I have a belt or a chain?
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Should I always replace the water pump with the belt?
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What happens if the belt breaks?
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What’s the typical interval?
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Can I drive if I hear a ticking near the timing cover?
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Will aftermarket parts void my warranty?
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My quote seems high—why?
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Do chains need replacement?
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What should be on a good estimate?
Jerel Lawrence is an experienced and certified automotive technician with a strong foundation in diagnostics, repair and technical mentorship. A graduate of NASCAR Technical Institute in 2010, Jerel began his career at national automotive repair chain locations, where he earned eight certifications from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
From 2017 to 2022, he worked as a General Motors-certified technician at a Cadillac dealership, refining his skills in manufacturer-specific diagnostics and service procedures. Today, Jerel leads as the senior technician and mentor at a family-owned repair facility, where he helps guide the next generation of technicians while ensuring top-quality service.
In addition to hands-on work, Jerel contributes to the automotive community through writing detailed articles and answering technical questions to help vehicle owners better understand and care for their cars.
Everett Cook is an award-winning journalist and editor with more than 10 years of experience across a variety of industries. In editing for Jerry, Everett’s mission is to help readers have a better understanding of the costs of owning or leasing a car and to better understand their vehicle in terms of insurance and repairs. Prior to joining Jerry, Everett was an editor for Axios. His previous work has been featured in The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The San Francisco Chronicle, The Atlantic, Atlantic Re:think, The Boston Globe, USA Today, and others. He’s also been a freelance writer and editor with experience in SEO, audience building, and long-term content roadmaps. Everett is a proud graduate of the University of Michigan.
