Birmingham

Birmingham, located in the heart of England, is a bustling city known for its vibrant culture and diverse population. With a population of over 1 million, it is the second most populous city in the United Kingdom.

The most popular cars in Birmingham

When it comes to car ownership in Birmingham, the data collected reveals some interesting insights. Topping the list as the most popular car in the city is the Ford Focus, a favorite among Birmingham residents. Following closely behind are the Volkswagen Golf, Vauxhall Corsa, BMW 3 Series, and the Audi A3.

In addition to the aforementioned information, it is worth noting that Birmingham residents have a preference for compact and fuel-efficient cars, reflecting the city's focus on sustainability and environmental consciousness. This aligns with the city's efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote greener transportation options.

Vehicle numbers in Birmingham

Birmingham boasts a significant number of licensed vehicles, with approximately 500,000 cars registered in the city. This high number reflects the city's reliance on private transportation and the need for efficient and reliable car maintenance services.

Postcodes and suburbs in Birmingham

Birmingham is divided into several postcodes and suburbs, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the notable areas include B1 (Birmingham City Centre), B13 (Moseley, Billesley, and Kings Heath), B29 (Selly Oak, Weoley Castle, and California), and B42 (Perry Barr, Great Barr, and Hamstead). These diverse neighborhoods contribute to the rich automotive landscape of Birmingham.

As a car maintenance platform catering to the needs of Birmingham residents, we understand the importance of providing top-notch services to keep their beloved vehicles in optimal condition. Whether it's routine maintenance, MOT testing, or repairs, our platform connects car owners with trusted professionals who are well-versed in the specific requirements of Birmingham's automotive landscape.

What does a timing belt do?

The timing belt, or cambelt, is a vital engine component with a key role to play in keeping your motor running smoothly. It ensures the top and bottom halves of your engine rotate precisely in time with each other.

Essentially, this ribbed rubber belt with teeth synchronises the crankshaft and camshaft’s rotation. It controls the sequencing and timing of the opening and closing of the valves on the cylinders in your engine to provide the right combustion.

Camshafts, made up of the main journals, the lobes (or bulges) and the ends, control the valves in the cylinder head. A rocker head takes the spinning motion of an overhead camshaft and turns it into the movement that opens and closes the valves.

Timing chains essentially perform the same function as cambelts but may be slightly noisier. The chains generally last as long as the vehicle (and generally require less frequent replacing), although the plastic guides they run over may not.

How often should a timing belt need replacing?

There’s no ‘one size fits all’ approach for how often to replace yours—a lot depends on your motor’s age and condition.

There’s also huge variation between manufacturers and different engines. So you might need a new belt every 3 to 5 years, or after 40,000 or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. Consult your car’s manual—most manufacturers’ recommendations are based on time passed or miles driven, depending on which elapses first.

However, we’d always suggest treating these recommendations as a maximum, and erring on the side of caution.

The law, vehicle regulations, and your MOT

The timing belt will not be examined at your car’s MOT, but the associated issues of running a car with a faulty timing belt can lead to severe engine damage, which can.

What happens when we replace your timing belt?

• Our efficient and fully qualified mechanics will disassemble the parts of the engine to access the timing belt and proceed to examine the timing belt, the belt’s pulleys and tensioner.

• Wherever required your timing belt will be replaced and you’ll be advised of any other connected or associated problems arising from its malfunction.

• You will also be advised of any other parts that may need to be replaced for the best operation and health of your vehicle.

• Once the timing belt has been replaced, our mechanics will test your car thoroughly to ensure the correct running of the new part and make any adjustments required for its premium operation.

What causes a timing belt to stop working correctly?

Like most car parts, your timing belt will wear out eventually due to cracking, snapping or tearing. Timing belts are also unpredictable, with few warning signs of damage. (Although starting issues and noise may offer clues.) Driving your car infrequently, oil leaks and temperature changes, among other factors, can all play their part.

Symptoms of a malfunctioning timing belt

You hear unusual noises coming from the engine

If a grinding or squeaking noise is being emitted from your engine, it could be a malfunctioning timing belt.

The car won’t start

If your timing belt has broken, this can cause problems with your engine that lead to the vehicle not starting.