The vehicle component retailer Halfords has warned owners of older cars to listen out for a certain noise that could cost a fortune to fix if it goes ignored.

As the average age of cars on the UK roads increases, more motorists will need to get the timing belt on their vehicle changed.

A spokesperson for Halfords highlighted that the timing belt makes sure various important components are running correctly, meaning it can create some expensive faults if damaged.

They explained: "Timing belts, commonly called cambelts, are crucial components in your engine. They ensure the crankshaft and camshaft work in sync at the correct speed.

"For context, your engine's camshaft lets fuel in and out of your engine. Meanwhile, the crankshaft turns the pistons up and down simultaneously. The timing belt makes sure they're both aligned. This is crucial as even a minor disruption can damage your engine."

Depending on the model of car they own and its mileage, drivers should typically get the timing belt changed every 40,000 to 100,000 miles.

After this time, motorists risk the rubber belt getting brittle and beginning to crack and losing teeth, which drivers should be able to see by opening the bonnet.

However, worn timing belts that are due for a replacement can also lead to a ticking noise coming from the engine bay as it slips whilst in action.

The spokesperson for Halfords also noted that drivers of a vehicle with a worn timing belt may also experience worsened performance and an increased likelihood of stalling.

They added: "A fault with your timing belt can cause a problem with your engine's timing, potentially leading to poor performance or a rough-sounding engine.

"Stalling can also be caused by timing belt issues, as the balance between the camshaft and crankshaft is disrupted."

When getting a timing belt replaced, drivers will need to make sure they order the correct version for both their vehicle and the engine variant it has.

Since the replacement needs to be done with a great deal of care, it is recommended that motorists get a mechanic to change the belt.

Depending on the model and where the timing belt is changed, this job can typically cost between £250 and £1,000, but last for several years.