Just my $.02 on timing belts. As a mechanic I don't mind them. I always replace the water pump and other pulleys while I'm at it that way you are never stranded with a bad water pump. To me it's just a mind set. I'd rater know that every 100k I have x expense instead of not knowing when my water pump is going to kick the bucket. I've done a pile of the Honda Odysseys and they aren't bad. Usually in the $600 range including new Iridium spark plugs.

 

I certainly appreciate the professional perspective, but you can change the water pump at 100K for substantially less on most applications with a timing chain. Not saying the timing belt is a bad job for most applications, but most engines never require a timing chain replacement.

The exception, of course, is the silly design some manufacturers(Including Ford ) use with the water pump being driven by the timing chain. I refused to consider a late-model Explorer because of that possible financial time bomb.

 

I understand your perspective but I like the idea of knowing that every 100k you can expect this expense instead of like most people do, they wait until the water pump is leaking at a very inconvenient time or place and then it HAS to be fixed. Unfortunately I have customers that wait until their vehicle is dragging a leg and bleeding before they bring them in. I love the ones that think ahead on maintenance. I try and educate them on preventive maintenance but sometimes you just shake your head.