Reached the manufacturer's mileage interval (usually 60,000 to 100,000 miles)
What It Is
The timing belt keeps your engine's valves and pistons moving in perfect sync. If it breaks, on most engines the pistons crash into open valves and destroy the engine.
Why It Matters
A snapped timing belt on an interference engine means a new engine, often $4,000 to $8,000. Replacing the belt on schedule is one of the cheapest forms of insurance.
How to Save Money on Timing Belt Replacement
Always replace the water pump and tensioner at the same time, the labor is already done
Get this done at an independent shop, dealers charge double
Check if your engine has a timing chain instead, chains usually last the life of the engine
Often Done Together
Shops commonly pair timing belt replacement with these jobs to save on overlapping labor: