Honda service manual says timing belt should be replaced in 7 yrs or 105,000 mi. I have 60,000 miles on my 2000 Civic. Does that mean whichever comes first? Should I go ahead and have it replaced (having no problems at this time). Thanks!

 

It would never hurt. But my 98 civic with 87,000 miles still has original belt. I recently got my A/C charged and the mechanic said bring it back in for a belt and water pump at 100k. So I think you are still good.

There are a lot of factors that play into wearing out the timing belt. Such as if it was stored in a garage or if the car was parked for a long period of time.

 

if your worried about it then go ahead and replace it and the water pump
thats ways you know its new and off your mind..

 

I'd put a new belt on for sure. It's rubber and degrades over time, and the consequences of having a failure are severe. But the water pump and tensioner wear out only due to miles, so could go without replacing those until next time.

 

^ but why do double the labor when you replace a timing belt a real mechanic will tell you to go ahead and replace the water pump as well since its right there.
if not then you pay for a timing belt to be put on ... then later the pump goes out and you have to pay again. the timing belt has to be removed to change the water pump..

 

Thanks to all for your replies. I still wonder about the years vs mileage issue. I haven't reached 105,000 but have had the car more than 7 years. It's not driven every day and usually short distances. Should service be judged by whichever comes first, years or mileage? Honda dealership wants $350 for 60,000 mi service plus $500 for timing belt. I'm retired and that's a little tough for me to come up with at one time; however, I want to keep my car happy and healthy so...any thoughts? Thanks so much!

 

Yes, it means whichever comes first.

 

where are you located somebody nearby might know a cheaper mechanic

 

Have a third party mechanic do it, make sure it is someone who has done a Civic before. Compared to most other cars, Civic timing belts are very simple to replace and the labor should not be that high.