Car cambelts
 

Time or mileage?

The change is due at 63,000 and the car has got 43,000 on it, but based on 12 months service intervals this would be 7 years and this car is older than that.

So if its miles its good for another 20, if not needs changing.

Advice? Ta :D

Re: Car cambelts
 

id go on miles myself, i just sold my focus with 60k on the clock it was due a timing belt, the car was 6 years old.

Re: Car cambelts
 

Pop the cover off and check it's condition if you can. I still remember the sound my 16 valve Honda Civic made when the belt snapped and the piston smacked the valves :(

Re: Car cambelts
 

I have always gone on mileage, but then I'm due my second cam belt change and the car is only 3½ years old!

not much help am I

Re: Car cambelts
 

I have had to replace 8 valves when mine went, 1 week after buying my first car.

Weird how harden steal valves bend and soft aluminum pistons are fine!

Re: Car cambelts
 

miles .

Re: Car cambelts
 

Well,

Considering that the cam belt is made of rubber. Rubber deteriorates over time. Also bearing in mind that I have also had a cam belt snap on a 16 valve engine to only have one valve that could be deemed anywhere near straight after.

I would put my money in my pocket and get it replaced. Cost of a new engine over the cost of a cam-belt and piece of mind. :-k

Re: Car cambelts
 

Thats what I'd do to. If your not sure get it changed.

Re: Car cambelts
 

Time definitely, it could get expensive if it goes. Same for all consumables in the service schedule. Having said that, if it is a non-interference engine (some Mazda ones are) if it does go, all it will mean is you coasting to a stop until a new one is fitted.

Re: Car cambelts
 

I'd go for time or mileage whichever is first, as mentioned it's rubber and that deteriorates over time. If you are able to check, though, that's a good thing to do.