good old hyundia

[deggers316]

just had my timing belt changed after 86000 miles at a cost of £115+vat
the mechanic showed me the old one it was like new to look at, he said it didn't need a changing but you cant tell just by looking through the access, and after all its cheaper than a new engine but feel a bit peeved it didn't look a bit worse for wear

[chas2008]

really not worth taking a chance, you would be kicking yourself if it had failed..I once worked for a large car dealership and every used vehicle regardless of mileage was fitted with a new belt before it was sold

[R1Geezer]

You made the decision to get into this game when you bought a car with a mickey mouse engine. Proper engines have a chain.

[Gazza61]

The mechanic was a bit irresonsible to tell you that the timing belt did not need changing. It is not really possible to tell by a visual inspection of a timing belt how much longer it is going to last and you should always change them at the recommended intervals as a precaution. It is a far cheaper option than putting right the damage that may be done by pistons hitting valves etc if the cam belt breaks. Any reputable garage will tell you this.

[Gazza61]

Sorry = typo error. should read "irresponsible"

[TWR]

There is one thing to think about Deggers, you have piece of mind that the Belt + components have been changed at the same time, so you will nothing to fear at that mileage.

[beso]

Proper engines have chains?

Many reputable vehicle manufacturers have been using belts for years.
Belts are quieter and more efficient than chains which is why they made the change.