New cat. converter

RobertD. · #1 (**permalink**) 04-03-2008, 09:09 AM

2001 Sienna 70,000 miles. check engine light went on again. I have already replaced 3 sensors, MAF, etc.,etc. Dealer replaced it for free. BUT.....the dealer told me that I have to replace my timing belt now. She said that even though the manual says 90k miles, the car is 7 years old and the timing belt will break over time, not just over miles. I have talked with several mechanics - noone has ever heard of this. Any one have any opinions? Cost of the timing belt is $300.00 installed. Thanks - Rob D.

ToyotaTech · #2 (**permalink**) 04-03-2008, 08:20 PM

Typically I'd tell you 90k.. if it was me, I'd do it sooner rather than later. Pre 1999 Toyota timing belts were recommended at 60k. They are the same belts... pulleys etc so it really made no sense to extend the replacement interval.
Do it when you feel comfortable. Honestly, you can wait til 90k and I suspect you'll be fine.

maxwell11 · #3 (**permalink**) 04-12-2008, 02:45 PM

Do not know much about cat. converter.

But my dealership lady, told me to replace timing belt on 2002 van at 60K, I checked book and replaced it at (5 years) 90K with new drive belts and plugs.

My sister-in-law did not change the time belt on her little PT Cruiser and at 160K it left her on the side of road about 25 miles outside of Nashville, TN.

I realize the belt is expensive to have changed, but I would not want you left on side of road in the middle of nowhere in todays world.

Just my 2 cents!!!

powerdude · #4 (**permalink**) 04-14-2008, 08:36 PM

Not only that, but if the belt breaks, the engine is an interference type engine, which means that the valves are driven by the belt to NOT contact the piston on its compression stroke (up stroke).

So, if the belt breaks, you're looking at the piston hitting the now free floating valves, and a $2000+ valve job for a multivalve engine.

$300 bucks is a bargain compared to that.