What Cambelt means for you
A cambelt is a rubber belt with teeth that keeps the crankshaft and camshaft turning together. Some engines use a metal timing chain instead, which usually lasts the engine's life. On many engines a snapped belt can cause serious internal damage, so the handbook's replacement schedule matters.
When buying, ask for proof it has been replaced, such as an invoice or a stamped service book, and check it's done on time. If there's no proof, budget for the job, which is often done with the water pump and tensioner at the same time. Don't delay once it's due.