2003 V8 Timing Belt - Change When?

[AndroT100]

I am curious about the cost too. If it is way too much I will end up doing it myself and making a youtube video so everyone can follow along

My dealer states $2800-$3500 depending on what components are replaced.

I checked with a local shop that I found online that has great reviews, accredited technicians, etc. and they quote $1750 with belt, tensioner, water pump, all pulleys, coolant and thermostat....the whole timing belt service with all components....

 

[AndroT100]

I mean, if Toyota recommends 90k to 100k miles, I would listen.

Yes! 90 to 100... but 7 to 10 years due to the potential that the rubber has decayed over time....I am at 11 years and only 55k miles on the present belt. I'd love to wait, but you just don't know...

 

[AndroT100]

After going back-and-forth about having my timing belt replacement done as it has only been 55,000 miles, but it has been 11-years since first change at 65,000 miles and 12-years at that time, I did decide to go ahead and had the dealer do it. I have been doing business with them for 29-years. For $3029 they replaced the main engine seals, timing belt, tensioner, pulleys, water pump, thermostat, gaskets, upper and lower radiator hoses and of course flushed and added new coolant. I've driven my 4Runner several hundred miles on a trip and all is well.

Thing is, the timing belt that was in for the 55,000 miles looks great! My water pump, which was original, now with 120,000 miles on it, had started to leak. Good that I had it done for the water pump, but the belt didn't need to be changed!