I bought a Subaru with 110K on the clock. On checking, it seems that the timing belt is supposed to be changed around this time. The previous owner claimed that the timing belt was changed, but there is no record of it with the dealer and there is no sticker in the engine compartment indicating replacement.
Is there a way to inspect the belt and see that it has been replaced in the last few thousand miles? What would indicate an old belt? Or is there no sure way to know but replacement?
Thanks.
You were very lucky. When my local garage (an independent, not a specialist in my car) replaced my timing belt, they couldn't get the engine to start afterwards. A timing sensor stopped working and the replacement that they ordered had been redesigned slightly compared with the original and wouldn't fit. It took the garage five days to get the engine running again. :-(
I don't use them for anything more elaborate than an MOT test or a service these days: I leave anything tricky to a Peugeot dealer.
You could look at the belt to see if it's an aftermarket brand (Dayco, Gates, etc.). That would be an indication if it was replaced. If it's a dealer belt any auto shop could have still installed it. Better to be safe and have it replaced. If it's an interference motor you don't want it to break while you are driving down the road.
Chas
Without a receipt it is real hard to say it has been replaced. Even looking at the belt may not tell you. I would pull the cover and see if it has an aftermarket belt, look at the printing on the belt as well. Clear and easy to read would likely mean it is a newer belt, but isn't a guarantee.
About the only way to KNOW is to replace it yourself. Depending on the model they are not that bad to change. Just get a GOOD book and follow the steps to change it.
The old belt was a Subaru part and looked really good, but it seems they don't give away their age. So, put in the replacement built. The car runs, but it was really tricky getting the belt in place.
Is there any way to tell if the belt is off by a tooth or not? A vacuum gauge showed 19.5inHg idling, in the normal range. The engine seems to run well. Would this be possible if the belt was installed wrong?
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