Hello,
I just got a 1996 camry with 106K miles. Would you have the timing belt changed at this mileage. The car is a nice clean car for a 96 but I have no idea of how the previous owner treated her. I am having the tranny serviced tomorrow & the oil changed. I got her from a dealership that took her as a trade in. Thank you in advance & Happy New Year

 

Look on the timing cover, if the belt was changed there may be a sticker with the info.

Toyota has no specific miles/years for a belt change stating to inspect the belt. For cars before 1998ish the figure of 60K miles is often quoted in repair blogs. Belts do break but they can go 130K or more.

If it does break the engine will not self distruct but you will need a tow home.

If changing it at the dealer cost is $3-500. Any decent shop can do the job thus shop around. Belt cost around $30 thus the rest of the cost is labor.

 

Thank you for the advice This is my 1st toyota. Everyone I know just loves them & says if taken care of they will go forever. In a few years I would love to pass her on to a family member & go newer.

 

You should have a good chance of doing this.

Keep your fluids clean and fresh.

If auto trans change it completely every 30K miles as this will go a L0NG way toward trouble free operation.

Would also suggest changing the power steering fluid. You can do this yourself by using something to draw out the fluid from the reservoir and replacing with new fluid. Do this 3-4 times with driving in-between and the fluid will be clear again. Use Dexron III or its replacement. The type of fluid is on the lid.

Worn and dirty PS fluid will wear on the oil seals and PS pump.

If up to it flush out the old brake fluid. Brake fluid obsorbs moisture which can cause corrosion over time.

Also the engine coolant. If long life fluid change every 3-4 years, if not change every 2 years. It is the anti-corrosion additives that wear out.

 

Yes usually after the timing belt is change they have a sticker tell you when it was service, but you should do timing belt change at around 120-130K.

 

ya they say around 130 but mine went earlier. if you have the money just do it cuz i went in for a leek and they jus suggested it. y not u know