Monday, September 19, 2011

Timing belt change for RX300 1998 Lexus?

Lexus dealer trying to rush me into changing belt for $1100. Know it must be changed periodically but if I wait awhile, can I damage anything? They say oil dripped on it from bad oil seal.Timing belt change for RX300 1998 Lexus?Check your owners manual, but most timing belts don't need to be changed before 100,000 miles. Timing belts (or chains) need to be replaced because they stretch over time, and can break.



However, if you got contaminents (oil, anti-freeze, etc.) on your belt, it is possible for them to break down sooner then they normally would. Get a couple of opinions. And why have the dealer do it, they are going to be more expensive than any other certified mechanic.



As far as waiting, if it needs to be done, then do it. If it breaks, it can cause a whole lot more damage to your engine, such as bending valves, that will cost a whole lot more in the long run. BTW, $1100 sounds like too much to be paying to change a timing belt. But it is the dealer.