Q. I shudder at the thought of buying a car with a timing belt instead of a timing chain, especially when a belt can disintegrate at an estimated 60,000 miles (according to one manufacturer). And if ...

For your engine to start, there has to be a perfect timing for every part, especially the engine valves. Depending on the car model, other parts have to move at the same time for the engine to start.

If your vehicle uses a timing belt and you’re due for a replacement, don’t ever ask to see the old belt — it’ll look perfect, pristine, and as good as the new one that just went into your engine. In ...