Does Alfa Romeo Giulietta Have Timing Belt Or Chain? (Answered)
All car engines have either a timing belt or a timing chain.
However, timing chains are becoming more popular because technological improvements have made for changes in the chain, which makes them last longer.
Although car engines still use either of the two, the timing chain is preferred because it lasts longer and does not have to be replaced between short intervals.
The timing belt is good, but it wears faster than the timing chain.
That being said, does Alfa Romeo Giulietta have a timing belt or chain?
Usually, the Alfa Romeo Giulietta engine uses a timing chain, especially the newer models. Timing belts were used in the past but have since been replaced with the timing chain because it lasts longer and is more reliable.
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What’s The Difference Between Timing Belt And Chain?
There are a few distinctions between a timing belt and a chain.
#1. A Timing Belt Is A Rubber Contraption, While a Timing Chain Is Made With Metal.
A timing belt is a very thick rubber strap, which is usually reinforced with a metal coil, while a timing chain is simply a chain.
Or a group of metal links that are put together to form a metal chain, kind of like a bicycle chain.
But timing chains are triple chains or at least double and reinforced.
#2. Timing Chains Last Longer Than Timing Belts.
The reason is quite simple; metal is stronger than rubber.
Timing belts are made with rubber, which is just not vital. As a result, they wear more quickly.
Timing chains, however, are made with strong metal and can even last as long as the vehicle itself does.
#3. Timing Belts Are Less Noisy Than Chains.
Thus, if a timing belt is used in an engine, it will run more smoothly and make less noise.
That is why some manufacturers prefer to use a timing belt.
Buyers prefer a noiseless motor, and that is possible with timing belts.
On the other hand, timing chains are quite noisy, and if the car were to develop a fault, the chain becomes even louder.
However, timing chains are preferred over the more quiet belts because they last longer. And they very rarely break.
Even when they do, they give a heads up, unlike timing belts that can just snap without warning. You might have interested to know about some problems of Alfa Romeo Giulia.
When Should The Timing Belt Be Changed On An Alfa Romeo Giulietta?
One thing about using a timing belt is the wear and tear factor.
The timing belt gets old after some time, and if you do not replace it, it may snap without warning.
So unlike the timing chain, the timing belt needs to be changed from time to time.
According to the Alfa Romeo Giulietta guidelines, services, and warranties handbook.
The timing belt on an Alfa Romeo Giulietta is subject to wear and tear, and it needs to be replaced as soon it is no longer durable.
According to the manufacturers, if the vehicle is driven under normal conditions and on normal roads, it should be replaced after six years.
Or when the total mileage has reached 120,000 kilometers.
However, if the vehicle has been operated in demanding conditions like dusty roads or bumpy roads.
Or if the vehicle has been idle for long periods and has spent a long time in stop-start driving.
You should replace the timing belt after four years or 60,000 kilometers.
Your service dealer can do the timing belt replacement, and it’s quite important because if neglected for long periods, the belt may simply snap without warning.
In addition, some signs show that your timing belt needs to be replaced. They include:
- You may find small metal pieces in engine oil.
You’re required to have your oil filter change when you’ve driven for 3000-5000 miles if you find pieces of metal in the oil.
It could be an indication of a damaged timing chain. - Engine fails while driving or refuses to start if it’s been put off.
Also, sometimes, the check engine light comes on. - You may hear a rattling sound from the engine.
Usually, the engine should have a smooth, consistent sound.
If not, something is broken and needs to be fixed.
How Much Does it Cost to Change a Timing Chain?
Changing a timing chain is a complicated job, and most times, the costs can vary.
However, if you want to change a bad timing chain, it will cost around $1000.
And in some cases, the costs can be slightly higher depending on the make and model of the vehicle.
The costs cover the price of the parts and the repair.
However, you can get the parts alone if you want to do it yourself, which will cost you less.
However, timing belt replacement is a tricky process.
So unless you are very good with car repairs, it is always better to leave the replacement in the hands of a certified mechanic than attempt to do it yourself. Otherwise, you may end up causing more damage.
Additionally, you don’t need to change the timing chain on your vehicle often.
It’s an expensive endeavor, although it’s not a very common one.
For example, replacing the timing chain on an Alfa Romeo vehicle costs about $1,100.
Since the chain is a very major component of the car engine, replacing the timing chain is a major repair, and driving a car with a broken chain is very risky.
And it also poses a great risk if the chain were to break.
A bad timing belt or chain will cause significant damage to the car engine.
So, do not mind the costs. Once it’s time to replace your timing chain, find a mechanic near you and get it done.
However, if you are very good with car parts and repairs, you can just buy the parts and do it yourself.
Timing Chain vs Timing Belt: When to change?
Conclusion
Alfa Romeo Giulietta does not have a timing belt like most modern cars. Instead, the engine has a timing chain.
The timing belt or chain coordinates the opening and closure of valves within the motor’s engine.
However, since it is subject to regular tears, you must replace it from time to time.
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