MAINTENANCE WILL KEEP YOU MOVING DOWN THE ROAD Check your belts!
Sitting on the side of the road with an engine problem is never fun, especially in the Florida summer heat. The end of summer and winter are great times to check your belts since extreme temperature ranges affect the longevity of most items. Talk to your mechanic about what type of belts your vehicle has.
Serpentine Belt
The serpentine belt is the most commonly used belt in vehicles newer than 1990. These belts run everything from your alternator to your power steering and air conditioning. If it breaks, you will be stranded on the side of the road or in a parking lot. You’ll know they need to be replaced if they are severely cracked or if the grooves are no longer deep. A good rule of thumb is to check them around 60,000 miles and replace them by 90,000 miles. Serpentine belts are easy to replace for the mechanically inclined individual.
Timing Belts
Timing belts are another type of belt to look for. The timing belt connects the crankshaft and camshaft, keeping them in sync. These should also be replaced every 60,000 to 90,000 miles. You will likely not see your timing belt because it is hidden under the timing cover. If you are unfamiliar with car repair be sure to check with a trustworthy mechanic on the condition of your timing belt. Some cars now have timing chains so be sure to check your manual to see what your vehicle has. Timing chains are meant to last a life and likely will not need to be replaced.
Key Scales Ford is your home for new and pre-owned Fords in Lake County, Florida and close to The Villages. We also have a reputable service department with a commitment to excellence and affordability. We have served all of Central Florida for 45 years. Our customers travel from The Villages, Eustis, Mt. Dora, Tavares, Fruitland Park, Ocala and right in our backyard here in Leesburg. We would be happy to help you in any way we can, no matter where you are at in the shopping process. Experience the difference here at Key Scales Ford in Leesburg where customer satisfaction and service are our #1 goals! Please let us know how we can help you find the right vehicle to meet your needs.
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