1. Home
  2. Toyota Camry
  3. When to replace 96 Camry timing belt

When to replace 96 Camry timing belt

When I bought my 1996 Camry V6 new, I was told "replace the timing belt at 60K miles." So I did, at 67K. Now I have 120K miles on the car and was expecting to replace it again.

But when I was entering service information for a recent 120K-mile oil change, I noticed that "Replace timing belt" has a footnote that says, "Timing belt replacement only required for Special Operating Condition

3 as indicated on page 30 of this supplement." Then I checked the 60K-mile service page and found the same thing.

Special Operating Condition 3 covers "Extensive idling or low-speed driving for long distances as in heavy commercial use, such as delivery, taxi, or patrol car." Not only does this not apply to my driving, NONE of the special operating conditions apply.

I can't find anything in the 1996 Owner's Manual Supplement that says I should replace the timing belt, under my driving conditions.

So what's the deal? Does the timing belt have to be replaced on a regular basis? The current belt has less then 60K miles on it. Should I just keep driving, or replace it?

Thanks in advance for any expert knowledge.

Mike Dodd

Reply to
Mike Dodd
Loading thread data ...

Mine lasted to 115000m and left me stranded, going to 90 may or may not be safe 70 - 80 id say yes.

Reply to
m Ransley

I believe this engine is non-interference, and Toyota is VERY good about their N-I engines. There *is* no recommendation for the timing belt!

I have gotten 110,000 out of two belts. We replaced the belt in my '95 Tercel, a gates w/72,000 on it and it had no cracks or wear to speak of! I would try the 90,000 interval, if you dare (that is, getting stranded when it *does* break, but I don't think it will...)

Reply to
HachiRoku

Just keep checking it. As long as it's still good, keep driving it. When cracks or frays start to show, change it.

It's really difficult for manufacturers to give a definitive answer on when to replace. What they can do is do the safest recommendation on when do it (such as the 60k advice you received) but it may be too early for some. Belt wear is increased by heat, oil, excessive idling, or frequently racing the engine. That's why it varies from person to person and from car to car. That's why you have to check its condition.

My suggestion is to judge the belt condition for yourself and err on the side of caution on when to replace it (perhaps 90k). If it breaks, it won't damage the engine but it will certainly be a major inconvenience and you'd have to replace the belt anyway.

Reply to
Viperkiller
90,000 miles is sufficient enough, any longer and your asking for trouble, only use toyota parts though!
Reply to
toyotawiz

MotorsForum website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here. All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.