105K Maint: Timing Belt & water pump

[OverDrive]

I've read other posts where people have said the belt still looked brand new at this stage. I've also seen other posts with people way past 105K and still going strong without a change.

So, I'm wondering if it's worth the +$750 to replace?

[rockman19762001]

I just replace the belt at 105k miles as called for. It is cheaper then a new heads and piston damage if the belt breaks and drops the valves into the pistons. I changed mine at 85k because in west Texas it is extremely hot in the summer and Honda called for a earlier replacement schedule.

[whizmo]

Originally posted by OverDrive
I've read other posts where people have said the belt still looked brand new at this stage. I've also seen other posts with people way past 105K and still going strong without a change.

So, I'm wondering if it's worth the +$750 to replace?

Belt changes are preventative maintenance to avoid more expensive repairs. It's a trade off - cost of maintenance vs. cost of repairs and inconvenience if it fails. In this light, the fact that some get away without doing the maintenance doesn't mean much nor does the fact the belts look Okay at the time they're typically replaced.

Off-hand, I see no reason not to stick with Honda's recommendation.

- Mark

[NJGuy]

Usually when the timing belt service is done, they may also replace a pulley, tensioner, a couple of seals, and the waterpump while everything is apart. If you plan on keeping your Pilot for a long time, pretty much everyone here would recommend to change it at the interval stated by Honda. If you plan on trading or selling it in the near future, it might not be worth it to you.

This may not be the best comparison, but would you replace your tires when the tread is at 4/32, 2/32, bald, or when the belts/cords are showing?

The longer you wait after the recommended interval, the more likely component failure & damage to related parts will occur. It's up to you. I've got 57K on my Pilot now; but I know in the back of my mind when I approach the 105K mark in a few years, I'll be making an appointment for the timing belt service.