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I have recently bought a Honda Stream. It's a 2004 model with 50,000km on the clock. It's a Japanese import.

It had a pre-purchase inspection and was in fair condition. The assessor suggested the cam belt should be replaced after 80,000km, but said I should confirm that with the dealer. The dealer said the cam belt only needs replaced after 100,000km.

Is the dealer correct?

Also, is there anything else I should consider as the owner of this car? For example, I've read elsewhere on Ask an expert that I should "insist on genuine Honda fluids in the transmission and cooling system".

Your expertise is much appreciated.

Hi there,
In your case the cam belt replacement will be recommended due to age rather than mileage. A lot of vehicles would be 100,000km or ten years max.
If it is a 2.0 litre engine with the CVT transmission, it would be wise to use genuine fluids to prevent contamination and possible problems in future, coolant and transmission fluid in particular.
Brake fluid, air filter and sparkplugs may need a look as most would be due for replacement by now too.

Thanks.