Originally Posted by Rodie
I am trying to find out if it has had the timing belt replaced yet. Does anyone know if Honda/Acura keeps records of such things (perhaps by VIN?) I may call my local dealer to see if they have anything they can track. I would hate to do it again if the car has already had it. No records with the car
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Rodie
In about 10 minutes you can pull off the valve cover to inspect the condition of the timing belt. You'll only be able to see a portion of it but you can crank the engine to rotate it around so you can see the condition of the entire thing. Just make sure to get the bolt torque right when putting the valve cover bolts back on so you dont get oil leaking. Also try to blow any debris out of the spark plug holes before you take it off so it doesn't go down into the engine and don't loose the round gaskets at each of the spark plug holes.
Having looked at the timing belt may give you some confidence that its not going to break tomorrow. However, I'd probably still try to replace it sometime in the not too distant future. You can do a timing belt/accessory belt/water pump job yourself for around $200 if you have some tools. At the shop, its going to be about $500 or more.