timing belt replacement

My 2004 has only 64,000 miles, but the dealer says the belt should be replaced at 90K or 10 years, whichever comes first.

Is it a good idea to change it out now along with the water pump, etc?

 

I'd wait till you hit 90 but I am by no means a mechanic.

 

If you can, check for cracks or other wear to the belt. If it has any cracks I'd change it out, you dont want it break or you can say goodbye to the engine.

 

Not true the 3.4 is a non interference engine so no bent valves if it broke. The worst thing is a tow back home or a shop. I dont think you can check for cracks without getting in there and you might as well just change it if your that far.

 

Oh cool, i didnt know that. Sorry for the misinformation.

 

This^ i really think the water pump is the main reason to be in there in the first place. Change everything you can wile in there. That reminds me I'm changing mine this weekend after 165,000 miles or at least i think it's never been done I bought it at 94,000 and have no record of it being done

 

90K is the change interval but like others have said, change everything while you're in there. I have seen these motors go over 200K+ on the same T-belt and water pump. It's all over craigslist.

 

Just what other then the mileage is the reason the belt itself being cracked or dry rotted ?? It is quite easy to pull the top cover off and inspect the belt

Does the belt stretch beyond the ability of the tensionor to keep it tight ?? To the point the timing changes or the belt just comes off stopping every thing.

I am sure some of us have engines we have no clue when the timing belt was done if at all.

If you need to pay to have this done it can be quite expensive.