Question Timing belt and service

[Ba120552]

I have 102K on my 2003 Highlander V6. I was told I need a timing belt at 90K and the dealer gave me a quote for $350 and so did another mechanic. However, when I checked with yet another mechanic he said, he'll use genuine Toyota parts to change ALL of the following for $700: water pump (reseach on this site tells me this costs approx $113), Belt ($53 + 2 hours labor), tensionor, timing belt idler, 3 seals AND a thermostat.
I've only had one major service (55 or 75K miles). So the mechanic said, he'll also check my transmission oil and the coolant while he's in there. To all the experts (I'm new to both this site and a woman), what would you recommend I do? the engine and VSC service light is on. Thank you kindly

[bigblue07]

the dealer can do it cheaper because they have a labor discount for the price normally they will charge 1 hour more for the waterpump the seals normally do not need replacement i work at toyota and have done lots and lots of these belts

[bepperb]

The timing belt needing replacement, which it does, and the check engine/VSC light are two different things. Getting the belt replaced even with everything he's doing for 700 bucks is unlikely to fix the problem.

If it were me, I'd probably have the dealer do the job for 350 bucks, and they'll probably charge you another 75 to read what the check engine light is doing. If you're worried about the water pump, the dealer will probably do it for another couple hundred (which will include new coolant). I'm kinda on the fence on whether that's necessary. If you plan on keeping the car to 200,000 miles I would do it, but no one will pay you a premium for your used vehicle for having it done.

You could get your CEL code read for free at an autozone/pep boys/advance auto/oreilleys and we can probably help tell you what is causing the problem.

[ddvk]

IMO replacing the water pump and the seals (OEM pump costs <$100) when the whole darn thing is opened up make a lot of sense. Thermostat is something a DIY since you can see it...

Get a quote for replacing the pump and if it comes to $500, I will get both of it done w/ the stealership.