Mitsubishi 3000GT Convertible Timing Belt Tensioner Costs
The average cost for a Mitsubishi 3000GT Convertible Timing Belt Tensioner Replacement is between $86 - $160. Get an instant quote with our AI repair estimator.
What is a timing belt tensioner?
The timing belt tensioner is a critical component within the engine of a vehicle, responsible for maintaining the appropriate tension on the timing belt. The timing belt itself plays a vital role in ensuring that the crankshaft and camshaft(s) are synchronized, allowing the engine's valves to open and close at the correct times during intake and exhaust strokes. The tensioner applies constant pressure to the belt, preventing it from loosening or slipping. This ensures that the engine operates smoothly and efficiently, avoiding potential misalignment or damage to engine parts. Tensioners can be automatic or manual, with automatic tensioners being the more common type in modern vehicles.
Symptoms of a faulty timing belt tensioner
When a timing belt tensioner becomes faulty, several symptoms may manifest, indicating the need for inspection or replacement. Common signs include:
- Engine Misfires: An uneven belt tension may lead to improper timing of the engine components, causing misfires or a rough running engine.
- Unusual Noises: Squealing, rattling, or chirping noises coming from the front of the engine might indicate a failing tensioner.
- Difficulty Starting the Engine: If the belt slips due to ineffective tension, you may experience difficulty starting the engine.
- Visual Wear or Damage: Upon inspection, visible wear such as cracks, glazing or uneven wear on the belt could suggest tensioner issues.
- Check Engine Light: In some cases, a failing tensioner can trigger the check engine light, alerting to timing issues.
How urgent is timing belt tensioner replacement?
Replacing a faulty timing belt tensioner is critical and should not be delayed. A malfunctioning tensioner can lead to timing belt slippage, resulting in the valves and pistons coming into contact. This can cause severe engine damage, including bent valves or damaged pistons, which are costly to repair. Therefore, addressing a suspect tensioner immediately is important for maintaining engine health and performance. Ignoring a worn or failing tensioner could risk catastrophic engine failure, resulting in increased repair costs and potential vehicle breakdown.
How much does timing belt tensioner replacement cost?
The cost of replacing a timing belt tensioner varies depending on several factors, including the make and model of the vehicle, and the labor rates in the specific region. Typically, the replacement costs can range from $150 to $400, including parts and labor. This is relatively inexpensive compared to the potential damage and costs associated with engine failure if a bad tensioner is not replaced in time. It's also recommended to replace the timing belt and possibly other related components while servicing the tensioner, which can increase the overall cost.
5 FAQs about timing belt tensioners
- Can I drive with a noisy timing belt tensioner?
A noisy tensioner is a sign of potential failure. It is advisable to have it inspected and replaced immediately to avoid engine damage. - How often should a timing belt tensioner be replaced?
The tensioner should typically be replaced whenever the timing belt is replaced, usually every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on the vehicle's manufacturer recommendations. - Is it possible to replace only the timing belt tensioner?
While technically possible, it is highly recommended to replace both the timing belt and the tensioner together to ensure optimal performance and reliability since they often wear out simultaneously. - What can happen if the timing belt tensioner fails?
A failed tensioner can lead to timing belt slippage or breakage, causing misalignment within the engine. This can result in significant damage, such as bent valves, and costly repairs. - How can I tell if my timing belt tensioner is faulty?
Symptoms of a bad tensioner include noises (squealing or rattling), engine misfires, difficulty in starting the engine, and potential visible wear on the belt. A mechanic can diagnose this more effectively.
Dev Output
1996 Mitsubishi 3000GT Convertible V6-2972cc 3.0L DOHC 24 Valve - Timing Belt Tensioner Costs
Parts: $65.00Labor: $83.00{ "partPrice": 65, "laborPrice": 83, "alldata_id": 23900, "alldata_vehicle_id": 23900, "title": "Timing Belt Tensioner", "parts": { "qualifiers": [ { "name": "Tensioner Adjuster", "part": [ { "name": "19 - Timing Tensioner Adjuster", "price": "186.90", "pricecode": "", "partnumber": "MD319040" } ] }, { "name": "Tensioner Arm", "part": [ { "name": "21 - Timing Tensioner Arm", "price": "57.58", "pricecode": "", "partnumber": "MD151401" } ] }, { "name": "Tensioner Guide", "part": [ { "name": "22 - Timing Tensioner Shaft", "price": "52.02", "pricecode": "", "partnumber": "MD145168" } ] }, { "name": "Tensioner Pulley", "part": [ { "name": "20 - Timing Tensioner Pulley", "price": "67.87", "pricecode": "", "partnumber": "MD140071" } ] } ] }, "labors": { "operations": [ { "operation": "Replace", "qualifiers": [ { "name": "Tensioner, R&R", "labor": { "skill": "B", "standardtime": "4.1", "warrantytime": "2.9" }, "qualifiers": [ { "name": "Note", "qualifiers": [ { "name": "With AC, Add", "labor": { "skill": "B", "standardtime": "1.0", "warrantytime": "0.7" }, "qualifiers": [] } ] } ] } ] } ] }, "year": 1996, "make": "Mitsubishi", "model": "3000GT Convertible", "engine": "V6-2972cc 3.0L DOHC 24 Valve" }1996 Mitsubishi 3000GT Convertible V6-2972cc 3.0L DOHC Turbo 24 Valve - Timing Belt Tensioner Costs
Parts: $51.00Labor: $50.00{ "partPrice": 51, "laborPrice": 50, "alldata_id": 23899, "alldata_vehicle_id": 23899, "title": "Timing Belt Tensioner", "parts": { "qualifiers": [ { "name": "Tensioner Adjuster", "part": [ { "name": "19 - Timing Tensioner Adjuster", "price": "186.90", "pricecode": "", "partnumber": "MD319040" } ] }, { "name": "Tensioner Arm", "part": [ { "name": "21 - Timing Tensioner Arm", "price": "57.58", "pricecode": "", "partnumber": "MD151401" } ] }, { "name": "Tensioner Guide", "part": [ { "name": "22 - Timing Tensioner Shaft", "price": "52.02", "pricecode": "", "partnumber": "MD145168" } ] }, { "name": "Tensioner Pulley", "part": [ { "name": "20 - Timing Tensioner Pulley", "price": "67.87", "pricecode": "", "partnumber": "MD140071" } ] } ] }, "labors": { "operations": [ { "operation": "Replace", "qualifiers": [ { "name": "Tensioner, R&R", "labor": { "skill": "B", "standardtime": "4.6", "warrantytime": "3.2" }, "qualifiers": [ { "name": "Note", "qualifiers": [ { "name": "With AC, Add", "labor": { "skill": "B", "standardtime": "1.0", "warrantytime": "0.7" }, "qualifiers": [] } ] } ] } ] } ] }, "year": 1996, "make": "Mitsubishi", "model": "3000GT Convertible", "engine": "V6-2972cc 3.0L DOHC Turbo 24 Valve" }1995 Mitsubishi 3000GT Convertible V6-2972cc 3.0L DOHC - Timing Belt Tensioner Costs
Parts: $37.00Labor: $76.00{ "partPrice": 37, "laborPrice": 76, "alldata_id": 21891, "alldata_vehicle_id": 21891, "title": "Timing Belt Tensioner", "parts": { "qualifiers": [ { "name": "Tensioner Adjuster", "part": [ { "name": "19 - Timing Tensioner Adjuster", "price": "186.90", "pricecode": "", "partnumber": "MD319040" } ] }, { "name": "Tensioner Arm", "part": [ { "name": "21 - Timing Tensioner Arm", "price": "57.58", "pricecode": "", "partnumber": "MD151401" } ] }, { "name": "Tensioner Guide", "part": [ { "name": "22 - Timing Tensioner Shaft", "price": "52.02", "pricecode": "", "partnumber": "MD145168" } ] }, { "name": "Tensioner Pulley", "part": [ { "name": "20 - Timing Tensioner Pulley", "price": "67.87", "pricecode": "", "partnumber": "MD140071" } ] } ] }, "labors": { "operations": [ { "operation": "Replace", "qualifiers": [ { "name": "Tensioner, R&R", "labor": { "skill": "B", "standardtime": "4.1", "warrantytime": "2.9" }, "qualifiers": [ { "name": "Note", "qualifiers": [ { "name": "With AC, Add", "labor": { "skill": "B", "standardtime": "1.0", "warrantytime": "0.7" }, "qualifiers": [] } ] } ] } ] } ] }, "year": 1995, "make": "Mitsubishi", "model": "3000GT Convertible", "engine": "V6-2972cc 3.0L DOHC" }