Hi! My name is Jennifer and I'm new to the forum. I was just wondering if anyone can help me with some questions... I have a 1997 Honda Civic EX with 121,000 miles. I have never replaced the timing belt! I know it needs to get done I just haven't been able to afford it!! (I'm saving for it right now) Anyway, I was wondering if there are any symptoms the car will express when the belt is close to it's breaking point....
A few years ago I had to replace the starter in the car. It actually got stuck ON[8D]. Lately, it has taken a few turns to start the car, along with a little finessing like turning s l o w. Could this be the starter again or is the timing belt calling out for help> I know very little about the workings of the engine.... I'm scared my lovely car will blow up!! Thanks!

 

1 reason a car turns over slowly is when the timing is advanced to far, this could possibly be your timing belt having been stretched. i beleive the recomended period for replacement is 60k, you may want to barrow the cash, your already on barrowed time with the belt,good luck

 

I just checked with the dealer. He said ALL civics need their belts replaced at 105K or every 7 years, which ever comes first. Jennifer, fi you are not the original owner contact the person who sold you the car to find out when or if they replaced the belt.

 

Wow, and I thought I waited a long time to change it. Erradic idling is another symptom.

 

Please get it done ASAP, if it snaps the concequences are very expensive

 

yes costly, mine actualy came off when i was running a work related errand about two weeks ago, as bad as it could have been i got real lucky, i could see the midas repair shop from where i stalled , and i managed to see and coast to the only curbside parking spot available for miles, got repaired and back on road in about 4 hrs, cost after tow and install (i actually had parts w me) was 350.00

 

105 000 miles or 7 years, or 105 000 kilometers?

 

excelent observation , whats the exact convertion, when i go to mexico i just round off 6 to 10 or 60,000 miles = 100,000 kilometers +/-

 

I meant it in miles.... I dont know what it would be for kilos. You guys have to admit for a timing belt that is fairly impressive,
especially with the;
"6th + gen civics, under normal driving use the transmission will handle up to 200k miles!" <====(Rick Hendrick Honda)

 

I believe the owner's manual states the t-belt should be replaced at 100,000 miles, but if you live in extreme hot (above 90 f) or cold (below 30 f) it should be changed at 70,000 miles. I might have made this up.

I have a 98 LX with 68,000 miles. I got my timing belt replaced last week at Honda delaership for $275. I think the belt is only $40, the rest is labor. Fortunately they asked if I wanted all my other belts replaced free of charge on labor. How often does that happen?

As for starting problems, I think every Honda model out there turns over too many times before actually starting.

T