Hi,
Bought one 96 model Honda Civic last week, with no proper service history.
Now clocked 84K miles and no idea whether the timing belt has been replaced earlier. Can anyone tell me the correct frequency of timing belt replacement?
Is there any way to inspect the belt visually?

Thanks,
AJ

 

90k mi I believe is the correct cycle.

You can look at the teeth side of the belt to see if there is any cracking or if there are teeth missing. Also, if they edges are badly freyed or showing wear it'd be time.

If you're worried about it or don't think it's been done just do it/have it done. Snapping that belt can be quite costly.

 

Thanks for the immediate reply.
Honda Manual says the frequency is 60K, but many websites says its required only between 90-100K. Which is correct?
This inspection can be done by a layman like me or do I need to approach a machanic?

Thanks,
AJ

 

The Honda Service Manual (HELMS) says 90k.

Here's the inspection and replacement:

You should do the tensioner, tensioner bolt, tensioner spring, and water pump while you're at it.

 

Dont mean to hijack, but what about Accords? Specifically a 95 Accord...

 

Um... ask in the Accord section. That's what it's there for.
I don't have any manuals for the Accord.

 

Honda recommends that you replace the timing belt at 90k reguardless of what type of vehicle it is.

 

Thanks for your advice and timing belt manual.
I checked with nearest Honda service center, the quote received is £220. I also checked with another regular guarage and their quote is only £140. Authorised Honda dealer itself is required to take up this work? Is this a highly skilled work?

Thanks,
AJ

 

It's not all that tough. The hardest parts are getting the crank pulley bolt off and lining up the timing belt/crank/cam correctly. You'd need to follow the directions carefully if you've never done the job before. It's fairly tedious work as well. BE SURE you do the tensioner and water pump at the same time. It's all connected/run by the timing belt so you might as well do those while you have the timing belt off.

 

I wouldn't worry about having any shop do this sort of work. However, be sure that the quote you were given from the other shop includes a Honda OEM timing belt and not a generic item.