How long does it take to change a timing belt on a Fiesta?
Changing the timing belt on a Ford Fiesta typically takes between 2 to 4 hours for an experienced mechanic. The exact time can vary depending on the specific model year, engine size, and the mechanic's level of expertise.
What is a Timing Belt and Why Does It Need Replacement?
The timing belt is a critical component in the engine of a Ford Fiesta. It synchronizes the opening and closing of the engine's valves with the movement of the pistons, ensuring the engine runs smoothly and efficiently. Over time, the timing belt can become worn, cracked, or stretched, which can lead to engine failure if not replaced. Most manufacturers recommend replacing the timing belt every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on the vehicle.
Steps Involved in Changing a Timing Belt
- Disconnect the battery and remove any necessary components to access the timing belt, such as the engine cover, air intake, and other accessories.
- Rotate the engine to the proper position for timing belt removal, as specified in the vehicle's service manual.
- Loosen the timing belt tensioner and remove the old timing belt.
- Inspect the timing belt pulleys and tensioner for wear and replace if necessary.
- Install the new timing belt, ensuring it is properly aligned and tensioned according to the manufacturer's specifications.
- Reinstall any components that were removed and reconnect the battery.
- Start the engine and check for any leaks or unusual noises.
It's important to follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures and use the correct tools to ensure the timing belt is installed correctly and the engine is properly timed.
Factors Affecting Timing Belt Replacement Time
The time it takes to change a timing belt on a Ford Fiesta can vary depending on several factors:
- Engine accessibility: Some engines are more easily accessible than others, which can affect the time it takes to remove and replace the timing belt.
- Mechanic experience: An experienced mechanic will typically be able to complete the job faster than a less experienced one.
- Additional repairs: If other components, such as the water pump or pulleys, need to be replaced at the same time, the overall job time will be longer.
- Vehicle model and year: Newer Fiesta models may have different timing belt configurations or accessibility compared to older models, affecting the replacement time.
It's always best to consult your vehicle's service manual or a professional mechanic for the most accurate estimate of the time required to change the timing belt on your specific Ford Fiesta model.
How much is a timing belt for a 2017 Ford Fiesta?
The range of prices of Timing Belts for the 2017 Ford Fiesta goes from $66.99 up to $88.46 for the most premium parts.
How long does it take to change a timing belt on a Ford Fiesta?
between 3-6 hours
How Long Does a Timing Belt Change Take? A cambelt change takes between 3-6 hours. The belt is buried deep within the engine and so isn't very accessible for the mechanic.
How much to replace a timing belt on a Ford Fiesta?
The cost to replace a Ford Fiesta timing belt typically ranges from $400 to over $1,800, depending on the vehicle's model year, engine type, and where you have the work done. The final price is highly dependent on labor costs, but can be between $409 and $919 at an independent shop, with higher prices from dealerships.
Cost breakdown and factors
This video explains the symptoms of a bad timing belt or timing chain: 54sEasyAutoFixYouTube · Aug 24, 2022
- Labor: This is the most significant cost, as it can take several hours to access the belt, which is hidden behind other engine parts.
- Parts: The timing belt kit itself, which often includes the belt, idler pulleys, and tensioner, is typically the main component. The water pump is often replaced at the same time, as labor costs for this are minimal since the timing belt is already being removed.
- Location:
- Dealership: Costs can be higher at a dealership, often ranging from $800 to $2,000. One user reported a $1,565.70 bill for a 150k service that included the timing belt, water pump, and other parts.
- Independent Shops: Expect to pay between $409 and $919, but this can vary.
- Model Year and Engine: Some models can have significantly higher costs. For example, a 2014 Ford Fiesta with a 1.0L Turbo engine had an estimated replacement cost of over $2,600.
What to expect
- Total Cost: The price is highly variable. One user on a forum reported paying around $1,800 for a timing belt change on a Fiesta ST.
- Why it's expensive: Labor is the main reason for the high cost, as many parts must be disassembled to reach the timing belt.
- The "don't just replace the belt" rule: It is strongly recommended to replace the entire timing belt kit (including tensioner and pulleys) and often the water pump, as the cost is often cheaper than dealing with a failure of one of the other components later.
How many hours does it take to replace a timing belt?
around four to six hours
How long does it take to change a timing belt? The short answer to this is that for most cars, changing the cambelt takes around four to six hours. However, the time it takes can vary depending on the model and make of car you have, for the simple reason that different cars have different under-bonnet layouts.
