Mechanic issues warning over ‘unfixable’ problem on used cars sold after 2017 | Express.co.uk

A top mechanic has warned drivers to avoid any used model fitted with a certain type of engine that could come with a huge fault that could cost an eye-watering amount to put right. The used car market is currently experiencing a boom, with demand causing the typical price of a three-year-old model rising by 0.4%.

Whilst many drivers are looking to get behind the wheel of a bargain, Dave Harrison from 911 Auto Repairs in Sheffield suggested that used car buyers should avoid models with a wet belt engine. He warned: "The next big scandal - wet belts. They replaced timing belts with wet belts on a lot of models after 2017, supposedly they’re more efficient. But the wet belt is a big problem because it only has a 10-year interval and then it breaks. It deteriorates and it can stop your brakes working. But if it breaks after nine years, they don’t want to know."

READ MORE: Major German brand tipped to revive much-loved car 17 years after launch

An idea first introduced in 2008, a wet belt engine features a timing belt that is located in the sump, operating within the oil.

Whilst wet belt engines are generally more compact and quieter when compared to alternatives, some drivers have found that the oil causes the rubber belt to wear out at a faster rate.

In particular, parts of the rubber can flake off from the belt, increasing the chances of it snapping and causing the camshaft and crankshaft to go out of sync. The rubber debris could also clog up the oil pickup strainer, resulting in engine components being insufficiently lubricated.

Don't miss... 'I drove Maserati's first electric GT that does 0-62 in under three seconds' [REPORT] The world's highest-mileage car has travelled around the world 120 times [INSIGHT] Worst car brands for parking tickets as owners of one model risk £160 fine [ANALYSIS]

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

Various manufacturers have fitted wet belt engines to their vehicles over the years, with the Ford 1.0-litre EcoBoost arguably being one of the most popular in the UK - being fitted to models like the Fiesta, Focus, and EcoSport since 2012, however it was improved in 2019.

Drivers looking to avoid cars with a wet belt engine should also think twice before buying a Peugeot, Citroen, or Vauxhall fitted with the 1.2 PureTech between 2012 and 2023, which also had the problematic engine design.

Nevertheless, when buying any new or used car, drivers should keep in mind that a dry timing belt will still need to be maintained, with manufacturers recommending they are changed at 10-year intervals.

Dave warned that it is particularly difficult to repair an engine with a damaged timing belt, particularly if it is sealed within the engine - ultimately resulting in owners paying more money.

He continued: "And when it does [break], it’s very difficult to fix. It takes twice as long as a normal belt to fix and it costs more to replace.

"That’s one that makes your eyes roll when you see it - oh god, it’s got a wet belt. They say it's better but it ends up costing double to fix or it's unfixable and makes the car basically worthless."