Rep Power: 0

I was going to get the timing belt done at a local garage. Doing a fixup on a beater and figured given the state of the oil (Or lack thereof) and the low transmission fluid, that the timing belt was probably never done or done so long ago it needs replacing. Garage said $920 out the door. I know it's a job to do, but is that a little high? I looked at videos and it doesn't look impossible, but I see where a lot of stuff can go sideways and having tools and parts handy would be of benefit... Do I just have sticker shock or is it high and I should check somewhere else?

M

 
Rep Power: 224

With the correct tools and know how, it's actually not very difficult to do. Maybe 6 hours of work if you're taking your time, probably closer to 4 if you're moving quick. The first timing belt I did was on a '02. I didn't really know what I was doing and I definitely didn't have all the correct tools. It took me somewhere in the neighborhood of 14 hours.

Assuming a shops labor rate is $100/hr (could be even higher), 6 hours of work, plus the cost of parts and $920 doesn't seem too crazy. If I were doing this for someone in my garage I would charge $5-600 including parts. But I'm not a certified mechanic and it wouldn't come with any sort of warranty.

 
Rep Power: 511

I was quoted $650 from a dealership for a timing belt change on my 2002. DIY, first time, taking my time, start to finish took me 6-7 hours. Quickest I did it was 3 hours.

like ​​​​​@BrotatoChip said, it's not hard. More intimidating than anything. Hardest part is breaking the crank pulley bolt loose.That, and tight spaces to work with. Only specialty tool I used is the crank pulley holding tool

 
Rep Power: 224

That's what most of my 14 hours the first time was spent on Trying to break it loose with 3/8" drive stuff, not a chance. Even broke a 1/2" drive extension after that. Now it's just hit it with the impact and move on.

 
Rep Power: 0

Luckily timing belt is good! Now to the possible engine tear down anyway... :-/

Thanks for the help!

M