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Promising greater durability and fuel economy, the oil-bathed timing belt was adopted by major automakers, but it generated premature failures, high maintenance costs and significant environmental impact.
The automotive industry is always looking for innovations to improve the efficiency and performance of vehicles. But what happens when a technological solution seems to be more problematic than advantageous? This is the case with oil-immersed timing belts, an idea that has generated controversy since its introduction. Learn about the origins of this technology, the problems it has caused and why it is still in production.
The origin of timing belts
Rubber timing belts first appeared in the 1960s with the Glas 1004, a model from the German manufacturer Hans Glas. This car was the first to adopt a timing belt to drive the camshafts, an alternative to metal chains. innovation brought advantages such as noise reduction, vibration absorption and lower weight, which made the engines more compact and efficient.
The technology quickly spread among manufacturers. Although rubber belts required frequent replacement, their convenience and lower cost made up for it. However, one rule was clear: rubber and engine oil don't mix. Exposure to oil degraded the rubber, causing serious engine failure.
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The introduction of oil-bathed belts
In 2007, Ford launched an engine with a rubber timing belt bathed in oil. The rationale? Greater durability and reduced friction, which promised fuel savings of 1%. However, the idea challenged decades of technical knowledge about the harmful effects of oil on rubber.
Soon, brands such as Renault, Volkswagen, and Peugeot adopted the technology in some models. However, the promise of durability did not materialize, and oil-bathed belts began to fail prematurely, often before reaching half of their designed service life.
1% fuel savings: myth or reality?
While friction reduction may offer marginal gains, the actual savings are almost negligible. For the average consumer, the annual savings amount to just €15, a paltry sum when compared to the high costs of maintenance and replacement.
The theoretical benefits do not justify the practical problems. Belt deterioration, engine damage and repair costs outweigh any promised advantage. Recycling damaged parts increases the environmental impact, contradicting sustainability goals.
Premature failures and high costs
Oil-immersed belts are prone to failure due to constant exposure to heat, oil and contaminants. Premature replacements cost anywhere from €500 to over €1.000, making maintenance a burden for consumers.
Every failure generates waste, discarded parts and, in extreme cases, entire vehicles need to be replaced. This increases carbon emissions and waste of resources, which goes against the principles of sustainable innovation.
Why do manufacturers keep insisting?
The answer may lie in profits. Frequent maintenance and high parts costs generate ongoing revenue for manufacturers. Switching to more reliable alternatives only comes after public pressure and reputational damage.
Consumer awareness is crucial. By demanding transparency and quality, customers can pressure manufacturers to abandon inefficient and harmful technologies.
The oil-soaked timing belt saga is an example of how not every technological innovation is truly a breakthrough. While they offer small advantages, the financial and environmental costs are significant. It is up to consumers and the industry to learn from these mistakes and prioritize solutions that truly benefit everyone involved.
Cars with oil-bathed timing belts in Brazil
By 2025, several models available in Brazil will use oil-immersed timing belt technology. This innovation, adopted by several automakers, aims to improve efficiency and reduce friction in engines. Below, we list some of the main vehicles that incorporate this technology:
Chevrolet Onix (from 2020)
Chevrolet's popular compact hatchback has adopted an oil-immersed timing belt in its latest versions, seeking greater efficiency and performance.
Chevrolet Tracker (from 2020)
The brand's compact SUV also uses this technology in its engines, in line with mechanical modernization trends.
Chevrolet Montana (from 2023)
Chevrolet's compact pickup truck has incorporated the oil-bathed timing belt into its latest line, aiming to improve performance.
Ford Ka 1.0 (from 2015)
The Ford compact, in its versions with a 1.0 engine, adopted this technology to improve energy efficiency.
Ford EcoSport 1.5
Ford's compact SUV also uses an oil-immersed timing belt in certain versions, seeking to optimize engine performance.
Citroen C3 1.2
The French hatchback incorporates this technology into its 1.2 engine, aiming to offer a smoother and more efficient drive.
Peugeot 208 1.2
The Peugeot model follows the trend, using an oil-bathed timing belt to improve performance and fuel economy.
It is important to note that, although this technology offers advantages such as reduced friction and potentially increased durability, some owners have reported challenges related to maintenance and adaptation to Brazilian conditions. Therefore, special attention is recommended to manufacturers' guidelines regarding preventive maintenance and the use of appropriate lubricants.
Whoever invented this should be arrested and have their diploma revoked (if the unfortunate man is an engineer)!
I have a C3 1.2 (this is the second one I've had). It's very economical, since it has 3 cylinders. I always use the specified oil and have never had any problems. I change the belt every 80k km, according to the specifications. Everything works. And there's one detail: by opening the oil cap, you can see the condition of the belt. But I don't recommend it for anyone who doesn't even know how to check the oil level or changes it on any street corner.
I have had a Ford Ka 1.0 for 4 years, I change the oil according to the specifications recommended by Ford and so far I have had no problems.