What causes timing belts to break?

My 95 Mitsubishi 3000GT is overdue for it's second timing belt change.

I know that if it breaks, my engine is most likely ruined. I'm getting it changed soon along with the water pump as well, but I'm not sure as to what else should be changed that is related to the timing belt like the tensioners and what not. Is it necessary to change all components or just the timing belt and water pump? I'm scared to drive it.
What causes timing belts to break?
Timing belts are designed to last about 50,000 miles or more.



But just because it breaks doesn't mean your engine will be ruined. Your engine will die out until you put a new belt on it.



Check the belt and if it is loose or frayed then it's best you not drive it until you have the money to replace it.



You may not need to replace the water pump unless it is going out as well.
What causes timing belts to break?
i think your getting ripped off. you should not need to replace a timing belt so soon and i dont think that you should have tensioners on your cars timing belt. i may be wrong but i think its fitted to the pulleys. and yes if your timing belt does go your particular motor will be junk. my friend had two eclipses and when the belts broke in those it broke some valves and messed up all the lifters and **** so it probably could be fixed if you would buy new heads but who really wants to spend that much? you actually dont have to change the water pump every time you change the belt either just be sure to replace the gaskets if need be.
Get the belt checked if its still ok the mechanic will just check the tension and adjust it if need be, you dont need a new water pump unless its on its way out. I had the whole timing gear fall off my car and it never stuffed my engine, that was through mechanical fault my mechanic done a big boo boo so i got a refund and fixed it myself much to my dismay of breaking a nail. Mechanics will try and take you for a $$$ ride if they think you know nothing about cars.
timing belt tensioners, possibly the oil pump, water pump ( because this started leaking when they put it back on my vehicle, had to have it replaced anyways). My timing belt broke on me.. was not fun.. 1200 down the drain... They just get worn out, especially if you have a heavy foot... I also believe they make belts to wear out, so they car will need serviced... more money for the dealerships...
If they need to change the belt tensioner they will recommend it but It's standard practice to change the water pump when they are already that deep into the engine. yes they wear out over time. You definitely need to change them.
Heat and time causes belts to break. Rubber doesn't like that. As for what else to change, everyone else got what might need to be covered.
Because every thing in time wear out... and if it breaks from that wear you know what happens.