How often does the timing belt need replacing?

We just bought a Ford Escort ZX2 the other day. It's a 2001 with 61,000 miles on it. My uncle says the timing belt needs replacing between about 60,000 to 90,000 miles or something like that. The salesman said something about it not needing one until much later...like 120,000 miles or so. I'd just like to know which answer is right so I can know when it needs to be checked and replaced. Or are they both wrong and it's somewhere in between the two answers? Thanks.How often does the timing belt need replacing?Your uncle and the salesman are both correct, believe it or not. As a general rule of thumb, timing belts on all vehicles SHOULD be replaced between 60 to 90 thousand miles (100 to 150 kms.) However, the salesman is also correct in that Ford, in their wisdom changed the timing belt replacement schedule sometime in 2000 to 120,000 miles (200,000 kms.), which in my opinion, and the opinion of the majority of people in this business, is way too high of a mileage to wait. With 61,000 miles, I would replace it. You should also replace the drive belt as well, since it needs to be removed during timing belt replacement anyways. That way you will save on the future cost of replacing the drive belt alone, since it is not very easy on that particular engine.How often does the timing belt need replacing?It's best to find an owners manual for that particular vehicle if it didn't come with one and go by what they suggest. (You can order them on-line) Every auto is different. Good luck.How often does the timing belt need replacing?Your uncle is right 90k service...shame on u, u should listen to your elders!How often does the timing belt need replacing?your uncle is correct as for the salesman well they say anything to get a sale! Good LuckHow often does the timing belt need replacing?Not sure about an escort in particular but i'm going to assume that because its a late model ford it doesnt have a belt, but rather a chain that doesnt need replacing.How often does the timing belt need replacing?I Would get it done now, if it goes you will regret it, it causes a lot of expensive damage to the pistons and valves, its not too expensive and you will have peace of mind when it is done.

Chris.How often does the timing belt need replacing?well at 60K miles it should be checked for signs of wear, a safe bet is to do it at 80K regardless, if the timing belt breaks it will frag that engine since its an interference type it would be a lot better in that respect to be safe than brokeHow often does the timing belt need replacing?Owners manual should have a maintenance schedule. Ford Escort engines (depending on model year) do have timing belts, notorious for breaking timing belts between 60,000 and 90,000 miles.



Also, most auto part stores carry the Chilton maintenance book for almost every car built. It cost between $20 and $35. Tells you everything.



Good LuckHow often does the timing belt need replacing?most cars can go over 100000 miles without problems with the timing belt. it is recommended to be checked around 60 to 80 thousand miles, and it is a good idea to at leas have it checked if not replaced. a ford escort has what is called an impact engine, which means that if the timing belt goes, so does your engine. So, I say better safe than sorry.How often does the timing belt need replacing?to be safe and avoid costly repairs, every 100-150kms. yours is overdue