Ask an expert

Hi, I have a 1998 Mazda Famila (Import) and it has just done 100,000KM. It is not taken on long trips - just used by my wife for shopping and picking up the kids. Does the cam belt need changing now or can I leave it for a while? If I do need to replace it what would be the approx cost? - on a tight budget.

Cheers

Time is just as important as mileage. ,Most manufacturers recommend replacing the belt at about 5 years or so. If the belt has never been changed on your 13 year old car, you are really living on borrowed time, so I would recommend changing it ASAP. It's also good trade practise to change the water pump at the same time as it is driven off the cambelt. I think you'll need to allow about $500.

Thank you , I have booked it in next week for replacement.