Belts
Belts are critical components to proper engine and accessory operation. Timing belts ensure proper alignment of vital engine components. Accessory belts, depending on the make of your vehicle, operate vital system components. Because of the hostile environment caused by stress and heat, belts should be inspected regularly for wear.
- Have accessory belts inspected by a certified professional at every oil change.
- Squealing noises should be checked immediately.
- Timing belt should be replaced according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Most common recommended timing belt replacement intervals are 60,000 and 90,000 miles.
Accessory Belts
- Three typical types of accessory belt: V-type, serpentine, and toothed
- Must withstand high heat, stress, and shearing forces
- Require periodic adjustment (adjustable type)
- Automatic tensioner maintains adjustment (some vehicles)
Benefits of Properly Maintained Accessory Belts
- Proper operation of accessories
- Passenger comfort
- Safety
Symptoms of a malfunctioning accessory belt/tensioner include squealing, poor electrical system operation at low speeds, overheating, loss of power steering, clicking or popping noise (tensioner failure)
Timing Belt
- Toothed or ribbed construction
- Synchronizes engine valves and piston movement
- May also operate water pump (some vehicles)
- Periodic adjustment should be made (some vehicles)
Benefits of Properly Maintained Timing Belts
- Performance
- Prevents premature engine failure
Symptoms of a broken or slipped timing belt include engine dies or will not restart, low power/sluggish operation, and bent valves or damaged pistons (interfering engines).
Hoses
Your care has both Radiator/Heater Hoses and Radiator Hoses.
Radiator/Heater Hoses provide convenient transfer and routing of coolant to the heater core. They are constructed of reinforced rubber compounds.
Radiator Hoses (Upper/Lower) provide convenient transfer and routing of coolant from the internal combustion engine to the radiator. They are constructed of reinforced rubber compounds.
Benefits of Properly Maintained Hoses
- Longer cooling system component life
- Prevent loss of coolant
Filters
Filters ensure delivery of uncontaminated fluids and air to all your engine’s internal systems and passenger compartment. Filters need to be inspected (where possible) for dirt, restrictions, damage at every oil change. They should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s specifications. There are many different filters in your vehicle.
Air Filter
- Regulates and filters air flowing into the engine
- Air allows an internal combustion engine to develop power
- Constructed of treated paper
- Blowing air filter with compressed air will damage the filter element
Symptoms of a restricted or contaminated air filter include reduced performance and hesitation.
Fuel Filter
- Filters fuel of solid particles or contaminates
- Does not filter liquid contaminates (like water)
- Life expectancy based on driving habits and fuel quality
Symptoms of a malfunctioning fuel filter include low power/poor performance, fuel pump noise (most noticeable when key is first cycled), and leaking.
Oil Filter
- Filters oil of solid particles or contaminates
- Contains a relief valve in case filter becomes clogged
- Does not filter fluid contaminates (like water)
- Should be changed with every oil change
Symptoms of a malfunctioning oil filter include leaking and engine noise when first starting.
Cabin Filter
- Filters air entering the passenger compartment
- Similar construction to air filter
Symptoms of a malfunctioning cabin filter include low airflow from vents (severe restriction) and reduced airflow from vents.
Transmission Filter
- Traps particles and oxidized fluid
- Protects transmission from solid contaminates
Symptoms of a malfunctioning transmission filter include poor transmission operation and/or a noisy transmission.
Benefits of Properly Maintained Filters:
- Longer engine life
- Power/performance
- Fuel economy (in stop & go driving)
- Cleaner oil
- Lower emissions
- Quick starting
- Increased component life expectancy
- Prevent wear
- Increased heating & A/C efficiency
- Reduces musty odors & airborne bacteria
Not all PTAC centers provide this service. To see what services each center provides and to find the nearest center close to you, please click here.