2001 Prelude timing belt

I have a 2001 Honda Prelude with 45,000 miles on it. It was purchased
in November of '05 with 35,000 miles on it. It was not used for daily
commuting; mostly, it was used once a month or so for long trips and
has been used that way until just this past month. My mechanic has
been telling me since April that I need to have the timing belt
replaced right now. The owners manual suggests it be replaced at
105,000 miles or seven years. According to the VIN number, it was
manufactured in the summer of 2001 giving me another year before the
seven-year mark. I would like to wait the additional year, but I
don't want to risk ruining the engine. I would appreciate any
advice. Thanks.

 

Definitely wait at least another year. They should be changed at 105K
or 7 years, whichever comes first. They are made pretty well these days
and you could go longer than that, but I wouldn't, to be on the safe side.

Get another mechanic?

dan

 

most definitely! this guy's a hoser.

 

Unless your tech has actually inspected the belt for cracks and has seen
a problem, I would wait. If he has looked at it and has seen cracks or
missing lugs then it needs changing. If he is just going by the age
and miles then I would wait.

 

Thanks for the help. I think I need to look for a new mechanic.

esh

 

As others have noted, I would ask him if there is something in
particular that makes him think it needs to be changed. Otherwise, if
it goes, you realize that you can't bring it back to him to replace
the engine. The 'I told you so's' would be killer.....!

Dan D
'07 Ody EX
Central NJ USA

 

When I had an 01 Prelude, the Honda dealer I used recommended that it was
best to change at around 90k to be safe. The Prelude turns a lot of rpm -- I
recollect around 4200 at 80 mph.

 

I have a 97 Prelude with about 90k on it and I am replacing the belt
as we speak. (can't get the pulley bolt out but that is another story)
The frustrating part is the belt really looks fine but you can't tell
until you pull the valve covers and I already bought the parts