4035 Old Dominion Dr, Arlington, VA Mon–Sat 7 AM – 7 PM
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Repairs

Timing Belt & Ignition Service

A snapped timing belt can wreck an engine. We replace belts on schedule and handle ignition tune-ups, spark plugs, coils and wires, to keep it starting and running strong.

Two systems, one goal: keeping your engine turning smoothly. The timing belt keeps the engine's internals in sync, and on many engines a broken belt means bent valves and a repair bill several times the cost of the belt. The ignition system, spark plugs, coils and wires, is what lights the fire; when it's tired you get misfires, rough running and wasted fuel. TAB Motors handles both.

Timing belt replacement

If your vehicle uses a timing belt (many four-cylinders and some V6s do), the manufacturer sets a replacement interval, often around 60,000–100,000 miles. Replacing it on time is non-negotiable on an "interference" engine, where a snapped belt lets the pistons hit the valves. While the belt is off, it's the smart time to replace the water pump and tensioner too, since the labor overlaps.

Ignition & tune-up

  • Spark plug replacement
  • Ignition coil and coil-pack service
  • Spark plug wires and connectors
  • Misfire diagnosis
  • Rough idle and hard-start repair

Timing chain vs. belt

Not sure which you have? Many newer engines use a timing chain that's designed to last much longer but still isn't maintenance-free. We'll tell you what your engine uses and what it actually needs, no upselling a belt job on a car that doesn't have one. A fresh oil change and a fuel system service round out a proper tune-up.

FAQ

Timing Belt & Ignition questions.

Tell us your year, make and model and we'll tell you exactly. Belts need scheduled replacement; chains last longer but aren't forever.

On an interference engine, a broken belt can bend valves and cause major internal damage. That's why replacing it on schedule is so important.

Follow your manufacturer's interval, commonly 60,000 to 100,000 miles. If you're near it or don't know its history, have it checked.

Often worn spark plugs or a failing ignition coil. We diagnose the misfire and replace only what's needed.

Usually yes, it's driven by the same belt, so doing both at once saves a lot of labor down the road.

Your neighborhood shop

Honest repairs, fair prices.

Virginia inspection, oil, brakes, tires and more on Old Dominion Dr. Free air, free coffee, and a straight answer every time.

Call (703) 243-3080
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