Timing belt change schedule

[f1rchifi]

I am using a 1996 Galant - 4G63 SOHC with only 21,000km/13,125miles as of today. Car runs perfectly and is well maintained. I want to get feedback on the need to replace the timing belts based on this low mileage. Do I have to factor in the age of the car - almost 9 years? I know the belts are recommended to be replaced at about 80k to 100k.

I checked the timing belt from top cover and rotated the engine, clean, no oil, no cracks or frays on the belt. Thanks for feedback.

 

[andymoraitis]

Despite the low mileage, I would replace these due to age. What may appear to be OK from an outside inspection with respect to cracking may not necessarily be so. Stresses on the timing belt setup are fairly high and there may be issues that aren't evident to the naked eye. Be safe and replace them. After all, it's easy insurance and you won't have to worry about it for quite a while.

Hope that helps,

Andy

 

[BulliT]

I would change it at 60k or so.

 

[Defiant]

As above, a good number is 60K. But yes, I'd also not go that many years on a belt. I'd recommend you get to it very soon.

 

[f1rchifi]

Thanks for the feedback guys. Will let the dealership check it thoroughly and recommend parts needed to be replaced. I feel that maybe not all bearings or auto tensioner need to be replaced with the belts. Some of those are quite pricey.

 

[Defiant]

Some of those are quite pricey.

Cheaper than the repairs from bent valves.