Just bought a 2001 LX Accord with 67K (from the proverbial little old lady) and I am fairly sure the timing belt has not been replaced. Should I
a. do this immediately based on the age of the belt
b. inspect belt for wear/rot
c. wait until 105K for replacement
Thanks, Larry

 

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Specs say 7 yrs or 105K, so you're overdue. Agree w/ RB.

Too much downside for effort to change belts. Water pump should be replaced along w/ tensioner. Bearing may be dry.

good luck

 

It really depends on a lot of other factors. The only two things at stake are the belt breaking and water pump failing. Tensioner would be a secondary thing to fail, which the only thing that would do is wear the belt prematurely. As it is bolted in place loosening of the belt wouldn't be an issue in and of itself. Examine the belt for wear - frays, cracks, rips in any of the teeth. If it's ok then keep an eye on leaks from the water pump or overheating issues unrelated to thermostat or sensors. If one or the other fails then I'd go replace belt, pump and pulley tensioner as well.

If the car was garaged and taken care of well in a controlled environment, then '7 years' recommendation may not apply! Depends on the belt. The 105k mark obviously hasn't been reached either. It is my belief that you have a solid Accord on your hands, but check the belt to make sure. Water pump should be good at least 100k.

 

Preventive maintenance is always the key to keeping your car running correctly so follow the maintenance program of your mfgs...
Safer that way..

WheelBrokerAng

 

If a belt could be inspected with an accurate assessment of wear, timing belt replacement would not be based on purely time/mileage consideration. All of the belts I've replaced looked good in appearance, and this seems to be the experience of most diy'rs.

Occasionally you see a report of belt wear, but this is the exception.

good luck

 

Totally agree. Even experienced techs at dealerships and outside say the same thing.