Thinking about replacing your timing belt (or cambelt) but worried about the cost? It’s one of those jobs you can’t ignore, but you don’t want to overpay either. 

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the cost of a timing belt replacement, what affects it, and how to avoid bigger (and more expensive) problems down the road.

Jump to: 

• How much should I pay for a timing belt replacement?
• What factors affect the timing belt replacement cost?
• Is a timing belt expensive to replace?
• How do I know if my timing belt needs replacing?
• How to save money on timing belt replacement

How much should I pay for a timing belt replacement?

In the UK, the average timing belt replacement will set you back somewhere between £300 and £700. That covers the belt plus the cost of labour to strip down the engine and fit the new parts.

If you drive a luxury model or a car with a more complicated internal combustion engine, you can expect the price to climb past £1,000. Not cheap, but trust us, it's worth it to avoid the kind of extensive engine damage that a broken timing belt can cause.

Most garages will quote for:

• A new timing belt kit (belt, tensioners, pulleys, etc.)
• Sometimes, a water pump replacement (strongly recommended)

Labour costs, which vary depending on the garage, car, and materials needed.

What factors affect the timing belt replacement cost?

Several things impact what you’ll pay for your timing belt replacement:

• Car make and model: A simple hatchback costs less than a performance car with more premium materials that cost the garage more to source.
• Engine design: Some engines are tightly packed, driving up the cost of labour when it comes to stripping them down for maintenance. 
• Garage location: Labour rates are higher in cities, especially somewhere like London.

Is a timing belt expensive to replace?

Yes, timing belt replacements are expensive, but not replacing it is much, much worse. Spending a few hundred now on proper maintenance avoids potentially bigger problems later.

If a timing belt breaks while you're driving, you’re looking at:

• Severe engine damage – from bent valves to smashed pistons. 
• Engine repair costs that could reach £2,000–£4,000+.
• Total breakdowns and potentially writing off the car.

Compared to that, the average cost of £300–£700 for a timing belt replacement is a no-brainer.

Looking for a smarter way to pay for your timing belt replacement? Bumper’s 0% interest car repair loan lets you split the cost into easy monthly instalments. Get your car fixed sooner and get back on the road with Bumper!

How do I know if my timing belt needs replacing?

You’ll know it’s time to replace your timing belt if you start to notice any of the following:

• Unusual noises like ticking from the engine
• Engine misfire or rough running
• Rough idling at start-up
• Oil leaks around the timing cover

It’s best not to leave it until you notice any of these warning signs, though. Instead, replace your timing belt in line with the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations:

• Every 60,000–100,000 miles, or 
• Every 5–7 years, whichever comes first.

How to save money on your timing belt replacement costs

Replacing a timing belt is one of the more expensive maintenance jobs, but there are some nifty ways to reduce the final cost. Here’s how you can lower your timing belt replacement cost and avoid paying more than you need to:

• Compare quotes: Independent garages with experienced mechanics can be up to 30% cheaper than dealerships. Shop around so you know the average cost of your timing belt replacement before committing. 
• Time it with another service or MOT: Many garages and dealerships offer discounted or bundled pricing when done as part of another service or MOT inspection, saving you up to 20% on labour costs.
• Ask for a full timing belt kit: Swapping the whole kit (including timing belt, tensioners, idler pulleys, seals, etc.) is cheaper long-term than doing all the parts piecemeal due to the labour costs involved with stripping down the engine. 

Take control of your car replacement costs with Bumper

Replacing your timing belt is one of the smartest ways to keep your car on the road and your wallet away from expensive engine replacement costs. And with Bumper’s car repair finance, you don’t have to worry about the full cost hitting you all at once. Spread your final bill over 3 to 6 easy monthly payments so you can get back on the road sooner without the stress of waiting around. Apply online or at one of our 5,000+ partner garages – approval takes minutes, so start now!