Repair Procedures: Inspection

Inspect the belt closely. If the following problems are evident, replace the belt with a new one.
1. Hardened back surface of rubber
  Back surface is shiny, non-elastic and so hard that when the nail of your finger is pressed into it, no mark is produced.
  
  Fig 1: Inspecting Timing Belt (1 Of 4)
  Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
2. Cracked back surface of rubber.
  
  Fig 2: Inspecting Timing Belt (2 Of 4)
  Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
3. Side of belt is badly worn.
  NOTE: A belt in good condition should have clear-cut sides as if it were cut with a sharp knife.
  
  Fig 3: Inspecting Timing Belt (3 Of 4)
  Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
4. Teeth are badly worn out.
5. Missing tooth
Fig 4: Inspecting Timing Belt (4 Of 4)
Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
If backlash or an irregular noise is observed when rotating the pulley, replace the timing belt tensioner and idler pulley.

Fig 5: Inspecting Auto Tensioner

Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.