As you drive your Audi, necessary servicing and maintenance should be performed. The longer you have your vehicle, the more often you may have to bring it into a trusted mechanic. One such part that may require extra maintenance is the timing belt. If the timing belt is continuously functioning in a problematic fashion, then other internal engine parts will be damaged. The best way to avoid this is by knowing the purpose of your timing belt and what signs to look for that indicate there is an issue with it.
The Purpose of the Timing Belt in your Audi
If you have an Audi that is older than 2005, you will have a timing belt in your engine. After 2005, Audi vehicles were designed with timing chains instead of timing belts. Regardless of if your Audi has a timing belt or chain, the purpose and function are still the same. The timing belt is made out of rubber and is located inside the engine. It serves to maintain the synchronization of the camshaft and the crankshaft.
The camshaft is responsible for ensuring the proper function of the valves so air and gas can be let in and out of the engine. The purpose of the crankshaft is to move the pistons up and down. Both parts have to always move in a synchronized fashion, and this is the job of the timing belt. All of these parts working together will ensure that your Audi remains running as your drive.
It is suggested that the timing belt is changed every 75,000 or every five years. Although the timing chain is meant to last the lifetime of your Audi, some Audis may experience occurrences when it does. Knowing the signs that point to necessary repair is important.
Signs of Timing Belt Issues
The first sign that there is an issue with the timing belt in your Audi is a ticking sound coming from the engine. When the timing belt begins to wear out, it will not be as tight as it was previously. The timing belt will then no longer fit onto its pulleys as intended. The older the timing belt is, the looser it becomes. The ticking noise comes from the timing belt hitting parts in the engine that it normally has no contact with. So a repeated ticking will be heard as your drive.
Another sign of timing belt issues is that the engine will not turn over. As previously stated, the timing belt is required to correctly function the necessary parts that allow the engine to turn on and run. Without the timing belt working properly, the parts it is connected to will not either. Thus, the engine will not turn over when you turn the key.
The third sign is oil leaking from the front of the engine. The timing belt needs lubrication in order to function correctly. The way this occurs is oil in the timing belt cover. If there is a leak that can be seen in the front of the engine, then the timing belt cover is not secured properly. When this happens, there is an issue with the timing belt. Lubricant is needed to ensure that the timing belt is able to properly and continuously synchronize the camshaft and crankshaft.
Dealing with the Timing Belt Issue in your Audi
Keeping an eye on the overall function of your 
Audi is one of your main responsibilities as a car owner. So if you notice any of the above signs of timing belt issues, it is time to bring your Audi in for serving.
The best place to go for repairs is Turning Wrenches in Louisville, KY because all of our technicians are trained and certified in Audi vehicles. We care about your car and want you to continue to drive safely after the repair, which is why we offer a 36-month/36,000-mile warranty on all our services. In addition to this, we use the latest tools and diagnostic equipment to address the timing belt issue and any problems in your Audi.
We always ensure that you are safely back on the road after a timing belt repair or any maintenance. Contact us today for an appointment.