97 Accord SE Timing Belt Question
 

I have a 97 Accord (non-vtech) engine with 204K miles on it. Checking my maintenance records, I had the timing belt and water pump replaced in August 2008 at 152K miles. So it's been almost 7 years but only 52K miles on the timing belt.

Not sure but think I remember reading the belt should be done every 7 years or 90K miles.

Wondering how important the 7 year mark is, considering the belt has only 52K miles on it?

Trying to decide if it's worth waiting a few more years to do the belt, considering the mileage. Any suggestions are appreciated!

JerryM

Another "opinion" question........

So that being stated. I would not stress so much on the "years". If I got to ten years and 80K then with the two I would start to worry.

Again, this is my personal opinion and take it as such and at your own risk.

If you live in an area of high heat or extremely cold and the car is not garaged then just do it if you plan to keep the car and want piece of mind. I just replaced a belt on a 2002 Accord with 70k factory belt, but I must say I told the person they got the lucky dog award as the base of the teeth were splitting and any given cold start cold have been the end of the belt and potentially the engine.

Guy's,

Thanks for your opinions on this. Unfortunately I hit a large pot hole and a short distance later the PS wheel and rim ended up under the frame. Had it towed to a shop and repair cost is 2400.00 for 2 new ball joints, axle, new rack, and some bushings, alignment.

Really liked my Accord, but being a 1997 with 203K miles and a second vehicle as I have a Dodge truck, I could not justify spending that much.

The mechanic told me on older Accords with high miles you really have to keep an eye on the ball joints. Had an alignment done 6 months ago and nothing came up about any components being worn, but just think that freakin pot hole did it in.

Anyway good luck fellas!

Dang, sorry to hear about the car.

Glad you ar ok and no one got hurt.

"2400.00 for 2 new ball joints, axle, new rack, and some bushings, alignment."

Ball Joints = $60 for both (OEM) Amazon or dealership.
Axle = no more than $60 new from Advance Auto
Rack = $170 from Rack Doctor
Let's say bushings $100.
Alignment =$79.99

$500 in parts maybe.

Why is the shop charging about $1900.00 in labor?

Yeah I thought it was a little high. They said the rack was 1000.00 itself with 5 hours labor just for that.

With the vehicle sitting in their shop, not many options or time, so let it go.

One of the mechanics gave me 500.00 and is going to fix it himself and he said his son just got his drivers license. So it will be a good car for him, so it's all good.