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Hi,

I own Mitsubishi Carisma 1997, cam belt driven. Its service is due next month. In last service mechanic at the repair shop asked me to change the cam belt, I asked if it could be changed in next service? He said yes it could be changed in next service. But the problem is sometimes it really make noises which are irritating, as soon as the vehicle slows down the sound starts.

I want to know what would be the total cost of the servicing as well as the cam belt replacement?

Regards,
Sid

I'd be surprised if the noise is the cambelt, it's more likely to be just a drive belt. However, in the event of a cambelt causing noise, it would be highly unadvisable to continue driving the car.
Either way, if the cambelt is due for replacement, it must be done as if it breaks, it will destroy your engine.
Depending on what service is due, I'd guess you are looking at around $1,000 for the service and cambelt, but your mechanic will be able to give you a quote prior to commencing the work..

Hi there,

Thanks for the reply.

Firstly, whats the difference between cam belt and drive belt?

Secondly can i get the quote from AA for the same, before taking the car for the service.

Regards,

Sid

The cambelt is a toothed belt that drives the camshaft. It is an important part of the engine, performing the same function of a timing chain that many vehicles have. If it breaks, the camshaft stops turning so any valves that are in the open position will remain open. As the engine is still turning, when the piston reaches the top of its stroke, it will hit the valve and cause major mechanical damage.
A drive belt (commonly called a fanbelt, although they rarely drive a fan these days) may drive ancilliary items such as the alternator, power steering pump or air conditioning compressor. These belts may stop one of the ancilliaries from operating if they break, but will not generally cause any damage.
You could contact an AA Auto Service & Repair or AA Licensed Repair outlet for a quote, depending on where you live, there's likely to be one not too far away.