What Causes Bad Timing Belt Symptoms? Bad timing belts create symptoms like engine noise, rough running, and timing problems because worn belts can't maintain precise valve and piston timing required for proper engine operation—and complete belt failure destroys engines instantly.. Worn belts can snap, leading to catastrophic engine failure costing thousands in repairs. Learn to recognize common symptoms of a bad timing belt and proactively replace it before major damage occurs. While timing belt replacement is anything but cheap, it can get a whole lot more expensive if you simply keep putting it off.
The Bottom Line Considering the cost and health hazard a bad timing belt can lead to; you must get the new one installed as soon as you see any visible signs mentioned in this article. It's best to look for a low-cost timing belt as the best replacement for your existing timing belt.. Your timing belt is one of the most critical — and most overlooked — components in your engine, and when it begins to fail, it rarely announces itself clearly. There are 7 key warning signs that your timing belt is failing: a ticking noise from the engine, misfires, an illuminated Check Engine light, oil leaks near the timing cover, excessive exhaust smoke, visible wear on the belt itself.