Hi,

I'm looking for some insight and opinion.

I have a 2000 Caravan with 80k on it. The manual says the timing belt should be changed at 120k. Is that number is based on the average of 12k per year with the assumption that the belt would be changed at 10 years?

It is having age related issues (noises, etc), but nothing regarding the engine or transmission (knock wood). My wife drives it in the neighborhood and considers the gas pedal to be and on / off switch. I typically drive it when we go anywhere an 1-2 hours away and I'm gentle on it.

So should I get the belt / pump replaced as soon as possible or is it really rated for 120k miles?

Thanks in advance.

 

Welcome to DF
If you have the 2.4L engine , that is true. The 3.3 and 3.8L have timing chains.

 

There was an article on this same subject in today's Chicago Tribune that was written by an ASE master tech. FWIW, he told the person asking *******ly the same question that it is a matter of miles, not age.

 

With 80k mile on the engine, the engine could start leaking oil from the seals or coolant. The manual maybe writen as recommend to do these, and not to replace.

 

Thanks for info.