Laurensv

Hello folks, new here as I JUST bought a 2004 ES330 yesterday. It's in GREAT shape, was well maintained as far as oil changes etc. but come to find out this morning the previous owner, and I quote: " never needed a new timing belt". I am not too bright for assuming he replaced the belt on time but here we are, I might have a record on my hand; 154k on the same timing belt.

Now I got to spend another $850 approx. which I don't have at the moment.... What you all think; park it or keep driving it? I will most likely replace it by the end of the month....

LeX2K

3MZ-FE is reported to be an interference engine (there is much controversy about this) if so and the belt breaks not only will you need your car towed but you many need a new engine.

Oro

Corkman

When you do it change the water pump and all this. It's only about $165 for parts.Its the best deal I could find when I did mine.

shortstop

You have no choice now if you paid a good amount for it . You won`t be able to drive the car very far, or very fast without thinking the belt will break, now that it`s on your mind.
I would check all the suspension parts and exhaust to see what else the previous owner thought the car did not need before I did the belt. If this were a 2000 dollar car I would take a chance on the belt not breaking, 3000 to 5000 or more is a big gamble ? Best of luck to you.

Steelfan

Just to chime in, I have 159k on my 2000 ES 300 w/o having had the timing belt changed yet. Debating now whether to dump the $ into it to keep it going (more than the car is probably worth) or dump it and get another work beater with lower miles.

Need the timing belt change done ($580+ for belt, accessory belts, tensioner, water pump) and I also have a P0330. That will be another $800+ to have both knock sensors and sub harnesses changed.

Decisions, decisions;...

Brownd3max

To the OP, I think the question you should ask yourself is how much do you like this car? If it's in great shape otherwise, and you like driving it, it fits your needs/desires, why not spend the $$ for peace-of-mind, and to make it more reliable? I've used this "logic" many times, and always ignore "bluebook" value to decide whether or not to perform needed maintenance. Spending more money on another "beater" that might be worse off, is just another gamble. JMO...

daredeil95

The timing belt is on the passenger side of the motor covered by a long black plastic cover that you can't miss. It's held on by simple bolts, I think 10mm, take a few of the bolts off and pry back the cover and take a look at the belt, if it's super shiny with wear lines on it or tattered looking then stop driving it but, if it looks decent/newish then you should be good for a few more miles. Me personally, I wouldn't chance it and park it until you can find the money to fix it. If you have some mechanical skills, it's not a bad job to do yourself and there are plenty of detailed vids on youtube for reference. You could do the job yourself, including replacing the water pump/hoses and new coolant for under $400. God luck