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Oil-Coated Timing Belt of Chevrolet Onix, Tracker, and Montana Models Is Causing Headaches for Drivers! A Vital Engine Component Can Generate Costs Up to R$ 11 Thousand If the Wrong Lubricant Is Used.
Did you know that the oil-coated timing belt of Chevrolet’s three-cylinder engines is considered a real headache for drivers?
The issue goes beyond a simple part replacement and can generate a real pain in the wallet.
According to the website Auto Papo, the cost of a preventive or emergency replacement can range from R$ 3,700 to up to R$ 11 thousand, depending on the component’s condition and the vehicle’s maintenance history.
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Cost of Preventive Timing Belt Replacement
If you are thinking about purchasing a used Chevrolet, such as the Onix, Tracker, or Montana, with a three-cylinder engine, it is essential to consider the preventive replacement of the oil-coated timing belt.
This component has a lifespan of up to 240,000 km, provided the correct oil is used.
If there is no damage and the oil recommended by the manufacturer is ACDelco Dexos 1GEN3, replacing the timing belt is simpler and cheaper, with costs ranging between R$ 3,700 and R$ 4,000.
However, lack of proper care can lead to much greater losses.
According to Auto Papo, a Chevrolet dealership revealed that if the oil used is inappropriate or the maintenance history of the car is unclear, costs can skyrocket.
If the timing belt is contaminated and shows signs of failure, the replacement cost can reach up to R$ 11 thousand.
Impact of Inadequate Lubricant
The use of inadequate lubricating oil is the main culprit for the oil-coated timing belt.
If the wrong lubricant is used, the wear on the part can happen more quickly and can even lead to the component breaking.
If the timing belt shows failures, such as loose pieces, the replacement will be even more costly, potentially exceeding R$ 11 thousand, which is a much higher amount than the cost of replacing tires or even changing engine fluids.
The recommendation for those looking to buy a used Onix, Tracker, or Montana is to request a discount on the price if there is any uncertainty about the type of oil used.
This precaution can prevent unpleasant surprises and excessive costs in the future.
How to Avoid Problems and Ensure Durability
The best way to ensure that your oil-coated timing belt has a long lifespan is to use the correct oil, as indicated by Chevrolet.
The ACDelco Dexos 1GEN3 is the recommended lubricant to maintain the engine’s proper functioning and the integrity of the timing belt.
The component is made with hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber (HNBR), which is highly resistant to high temperatures and contact with oils. In addition, the composition includes Teflon, which further increases thermal resistance and durability.
Chevrolet has been attentive to this issue and, in 2024, extended the warranty of the component for all cars equipped with the three-cylinder engine, offering coverage of up to 240,000 km, with no time limit.
To benefit from this coverage, it is necessary to follow the manufacturer’s maintenance plan and carry out periodic reviews at an authorized dealership. This way, the owner will be protected from high costs with timing belt replacements.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Oil-Coated Timing Belt
One of the major advantages of this technology is its greater efficiency in engines.
The oil-coated timing belt was adopted by Chevrolet, as well as Ford, to improve engine performance.
This type of belt requires less effort to synchronize the valve timing, resulting in less mechanical loss. This, in theory, can increase engine durability and improve overall performance.
Although the oil-coated timing belt has a much longer lifespan than the traditional belt, which generally requires replacement after 60,000 to 80,000 km, it needs to be well maintained.
If the oil used is not the correct type or the component is exposed to adverse conditions, wear will be accelerated, and repair costs will be much higher.
For Those Who Want to Buy a Used Chevrolet
If you are looking for a used Chevrolet, such as the Onix, Tracker, or Montana, it is essential to check the vehicle’s maintenance history.
Auto Papo warns that cars that have been company-owned may have poorly detailed maintenance, with limited records and often without information about the type of lubricant used in the engine.
Make sure that the correct oil was used, as this can make all the difference in the future and prevent unexpected costs.
The preventive replacement of the oil-coated timing belt is a smart way to ensure that the engine continues to run well for many kilometers.
However, in the event of damage caused by using inadequate oil, costs can be as high as replacing other important components of the car.
Therefore, when buying a used vehicle, do not hesitate to negotiate discounts if there is any doubt about the engine maintenance.
Esse Onix é um verdadeira vergonha pra GM. Ploblema maior ainda é que os engenheiros. Que projeto esse carro. Não querem assumir o erro. Quem comprou um carro desse. É que sofre. Com . esse ploblema. Veja um astra por exemplo carro considerado. Antigo. Mais um bom carro.
Eu tenho gm 2.0 as vezes eu rádio até mais se 80 mil e nunca quebrou uma correia motor antigo né
Óleo qualquer qui seja nunca vai da certo com borracha ok uma ideia maluco da GM