The code 52 reminder is not a malfunction code, but rather a maintenance notification. But What does it mean?
What does code 52 mean on a Chevy Sonic?
The Code 52 in Chevy Sonic means your car hits 100k miles, and the timing belt needs to be replaced. The timing belt is responsible for rotating the cam and crankshaft in sync. This sync ensures a smooth air and fuel intake and expulsion of exhaust gasses.
With time, the belt wears out or develops a crack, and the sync is not done properly. It can result in valve collusion that leads to engine damage and even engine failure. That is why it is important to follow the recommendation and replace the belt.
But sometimes, the belt does not wear out or get damaged after 100k miles. But you don’t know since checking the belt is not possible on the spot. So it is always a good idea to replace the belt since you don’t want to have a failed engine in your car.
Should I stop driving, replace the belt, or keep going?
If you are in the middle of the road, you should not stop driving and find a mechanic like mad. You can easily get away with the old and damaged belt. However, you should not push it and keep driving until the belt breaks down entirely and the engine dies.
If the belt breaks down while driving, you may need to tow the car, which is expensive. So the best thing to do is to keep going and find a mechanic once you get the time. You can try replacing it as well.
How much does it cost to replace the timing belt?
The cost of the timing belt is 75 dollars. But the labor cost will be $400-$1000. The labor cost is too expensive, I know.
But you have to disassemble the engine to remove and attach the belt. Besides, you have to adjust the timing and assemble the engine once again. It requires enough time and effort. That is why the Chevy Sonic timing belt replacement cost is expensive.
Who should change the timing belt? – Me or the mechanic?
The belt changing is a complex process requiring professional knowledge, the right tools, a long time, and enough effort. The tension, timing, and putting things in order have to be perfect and precise to work smoothly. If you don’t have all of these, it is better to leave the job for a mechanic. Yes, it will cost you a few hundred dollars, but it will save your engine time, effort, and hassle.
Pro Tips: Do not go to the dealer. They charge $150/hr and pay $20/hr to the labor. Try to replace it with an independent mechanic. And know the current price of the timing belt of your car model online.
Search on Google: Timing belt replacement cost near me and judge accordingly.
How to reset code 52 on Chevy Sonic?
After completing the replacement, you need to reset the code. Let’s see how to turn off or how to clear code 52 in Chevy Sonic.
- Place the car in a safe place and turn off the engine.
- Locate the fuse block location using the manual. It is usually located downside of the instrument panel on the driver’s side.
- You will find the fuse box. A plastic cover will be there. Remove it.
- Find fuse numbers 14, 17, and 25. Not all models will have the same number. Check the manual to find the right number.
- Remove all or a specific fuse and wait for 5-7 minutes.
- Then put it back, and you are done.
Sometimes, code 52 still shows up in 2014, 15, and onward models due to 26 number fuse problems. You need to replace the fuse even after replacing the timing belt.
If the fuse thing does not work for you, try following the steps below.
- Park the vehicle in a safe place and open the hood.
- Locate the battery, and I know you can do that easily.
- Identify the negative – and positive + terminal.
- Using a socket, remove the wire from the negative terminal. Wait for 10 minutes.
- Now put the connection back, and you are done resetting the 52 code.
How to increase the lifespan of the timing belt?
You have to change the timing belt at one point, no matter what. But you can expand the lifespan of the timing belt by following the tips below.
- Try to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to know when to change the timing belt and act accordingly.
- Use the quality timing belt when replacing it.
- Replace the belt with a quality and expert technician.
- Drive the car carefully and in the right condition. Avoid driving in extreme conditions.
- Avoid overloading in any case.
Relevant Questions
I know you have some questions in your mind. Everyone has. Let’s check out the FAQ section below.
The distance depends on the condition of the timing belt. You can drive another thousand miles if the belt is in good shape. But you should not drive too long if you don’t find the mechanic since you don’t know the timing belt conditions, which can damage the engine.
Well, you can try fixing it if you have enough knowledge and expertise on automobiles and have the right tools, time, and will. But it requires accurate tension and timing adjustment. So I will suggest you avoid trying to fix it in case you are not an expert.
Yes, fixing code 52 by replacing the timing belt will definitely improve the car’s performance. A good timing belt will sync the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft to ensure proper engine operation. So it is better to fix it as soon as possible.
No, code 52 is not under warranty, and the car company will not replace the belt for you.
The 52 code is not related to software. It is related to the timing belt, and you need to replace it to fix the 52 code in Chevy Sonic.
You can expect around 100k miles driving with a timing belt. But if you follow the right driving technique and drive the car in good condition, it may last longer.
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