There are some aspects of car maintenance that drivers may put off without any serious repercussions but replacing your timing belt is not among them. The crucial part ensures that valves and pistons operate together in the right way, and while they have become quieter and more efficient lately they also must be replaced a bit more frequently.

According to Rich Diegle, the Automotive Editor at ALLDATAdiy.com, a broken timing belt can lead to a number of issues. For instance, if you drive a car with a free-running engine, a broken belt will quickly cause your engine to stop running and you'll have to be towed to the nearest repair shop. Additionally, the broken belt could cause significant mechanical damage to your engine.

In interference engines, while the damage may not cause your car to immediately stop running, it will still result in some substantial harm in the form of pistons hitting open valves, which will cost a great deal to repair.

Of course, there is an easy way around the many pitfalls of a broken timing belt and that is to get them replaced on a regular interval. Most manufacturers will provide guidelines on just how often they should be replaced, and by following the recommendations you can prevent you belt from breaking and the host of problems that come with it.

Such regular upkeep is becoming increasingly important as drivers are getting more out of their cars than ever before. Rebecca Lindland, the director of strategic review at IHS Automotive recently told Bloomberg Radio that the average age of a car on the road is 10.7 years and if you'd like to reach that level, regular maintenance is must.

The New Jersey State Auto Auction has a Full Auto Service Center located in Jersey City. The company provides discounted auto repair and auto maintenance for their customers. Call Brian at 201-200-1100 for our current Service Specials and ask for our Current Coupons.