GS - 2nd Gen (1998-2005) Discussion about the second generation GS300, GS400 and GS430 (1998 - 2005)

Does the timing belt only last 5 years, regardless of mileage?

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Old 03-17-05, 11:09 PM
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HD-GS4
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Default Does the timing belt only last 5 years, regardless of mileage?

I have a '98 GS400, with 40K on the ticker. I took it to the dealer for an oil change today, and they said that although my GS has extremely low miles for a '98, that the timing belt is 7 years old, and should probably be changed. They said that they only last 5 years, regardless of how many miles are on the car. Is this true? I don't want to spend over 400 bucks on a new timing belt if it isn't necessary, but I also don't want to run the risk of bent valves if the belt happens to break.
Old 03-17-05, 11:14 PM
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Originally Posted by HD-GS4
I have a '98 GS400, with 40K on the ticker. I took it to the dealer for an oil change today, and they said that although my GS has extremely low miles for a '98, that the timing belt is 7 years old, and should probably be changed. They said that they only last 5 years, regardless of how many miles are on the car. Is this true? I don't want to spend over 400 bucks on a new timing belt if it isn't necessary, but I also don't want to run the risk of bent valves if the belt happens to break.
I know that Honda reccommends every 90k or 6 years. So, yeah, you are due for a change; though many people will tell you it can last. I would never risk it on my own car. Unless, of course, the GS has a non interference engine....which I have not researched yet. I am learning so much from these boards before buying my GS.
Old 03-17-05, 11:18 PM
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ksu1998
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for $400 installed do it...but some say if no leakage from the water pump. dont worry about it..we have a "zero damage motor" (proper term:?>) unlike a accord..if it breaks the motor is fine no valve damage...I heard this from a dealer....inform me if anybody want to chime in...



D
Old 03-18-05, 12:49 AM
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i want to know also.
Old 03-18-05, 04:55 AM
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HD-GS4
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I talked to the technician, and he said that the GS400 engine IS an interferance engine, meaning that if the belt breaks- you'll have engine damage. I think the GS400 and the LX have very similar engines, and I know my LX is the same way.
Old 03-18-05, 04:57 AM
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I'm curious about this as well. Mine is a 99 with only 45K on it.
Old 03-18-05, 05:12 AM
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yes it is

heres a link to tell you if you have interfernce or non

http://www.gates.com/part_locator/in...cation_id=3002
Old 03-18-05, 05:15 AM
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Originally Posted by T.L.W.
yes the 400's are but im not sure on the 300's

i think the 300's are non

heres a link to tell you if you have interfernce or non

http://www.gates.com/part_locator/in...cation_id=3002
but i would still consult a lexus mechanic to be 100%sure
Old 03-18-05, 09:28 AM
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rominl
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umm..... so that means although my car only has 60k miles i should get new timing belt?
Old 03-18-05, 11:37 AM
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If you are a reasonable driver, there is no way you need a new timing belt.

Inspect it, but don't replace it unless it shows visible signs of wear.
Old 03-18-05, 03:33 PM
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Originally Posted by jonathancl
If you are a reasonable driver, there is no way you need a new timing belt.

Inspect it, but don't replace it unless it shows visible signs of wear.
Why would you tear an engine down to the timing belt and not replace it?
There is no way to "inspect" a timing belt without looking at it, that's why there are recommended intervals to replace it.
Old 03-18-05, 03:38 PM
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Originally Posted by Indio
Why would you tear an engine down to the timing belt and not replace it?
There is no way to "inspect" a timing belt without looking at it, that's why there are recommended intervals to replace it.
It's less work, and it's something an owner can do. Replacement is not a job for everyone...
Old 03-18-05, 03:47 PM
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Originally Posted by jonathancl
It's less work, and it's something an owner can do. Replacement is not a job for everyone...
I'm starting to doubt if you know what a timing belt is.
Old 03-18-05, 03:50 PM
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I went 10 years on my 1994 Acura Legend Coupe, just had the Timing and all belts replaced last Spring.... Only had 42K...Belts still looked like they could of went for another 2-5 years.

Didn't want to risk it though.
Old 03-18-05, 07:51 PM
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i just got mine replaced, i have a 98 gs400 with 98K, from the look of the old belt, i dont think it needed to be changed, but the dealership suggested that i did, belt cost 65.00 labor was
550.00$ for the 3 hours that it took


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