2006-09-06 18:11:22 · 7 answers · asked by Michelle D 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
You don't unless you can find the receipt for one, but even that may be bogus.
You can inspect it for wear. Take the cover off and look at it. It should have few cracks and all teeth should be in place.
2006-09-06 18:15:14 · answer #1 · answered by x 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you do not know whether or not the timing belt has been replaced you may want to just "bite the bullet" and replace it. "Some" engines will destroy themselves if the timing belt breaks while the engine is running. It will cost you thousands to fix or replace the engine OR buy a new car. It will probably cost you $600.00 to do the work I am suggesting to you now.
While your mechanic is in there have them replace the water pump and belt tensioners too. Since all this other work is taking place, change the coolant and thermostat too.
This will keep you from having problems down the line.
I was in the same position you are with a car I bought a few years back. I did not want the engine to destroy itself so I got the work done.
Your second option is to find out whether you have an "interference" or a "non-interference" engine.
"Interference" engines DESTROY THEMSELVES when the timing belt breaks. "Non-interference" engines do not tear themselves up when the timing belt breaks.
If you find out you have a non-interference engine you can "risk it" and wait until it breaks. I GUARANTEE YOU the belt will break at the WORST POSSIBLE MOMENT.
2006-09-07 01:50:52 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
if it has just been replaced remove the cover and you will see that it looks new the writing on the back of the belt will not have worn off . Or ask for a reciept.
2006-09-07 01:38:21 · answer #3 · answered by frd220 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
always ask for (to see) your old parts. if ind ought take them to a parts store and see if they match your car. most places will replace a timing belt,but fu on something else.
2006-09-07 01:59:18 · answer #4 · answered by jerry r 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There should be a sticker under the bonnet/hood with the miles it was replaced at.
2006-09-07 02:07:20 · answer #5 · answered by frank m 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Whhhhhhhhhhhhhhhaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat?
2006-09-07 01:57:29 · answer #6 · answered by a 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
as them for the old one when they replace it and fiollow them to go get it so they will have a harder time pulling a fast one on you
2006-09-07 01:17:04 · answer #7 · answered by jimmy V 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋