Ok...I just saw a post regarding a timing belt and damage occuring from not replacing a timing belt when it should be replaced. I have a few questions...

Is a timing belt the same thing as a sepentein belt? And can some one tell me what exactly a timing belt is and does?

I bought my car used back in 2000. I have put about 33k on it. I have maintained it pretty well but I am not 100% sure I ever replaced it or whether it was replaced by the previous owener.

Do places like Valvoline replace these things? The reason why I am asking is becuase I always have my oil changed on time and they do more than just check the oil...they check the fluids and a few other things...so if I needed it replaced would places like valvoline tell me whether or not I need it replaced?

What places should I take it to in order to get it replaced? Dealer/Full service shops like Firestone?

Is there any way I can check if I need it replaced? I don't feel like spending around $70 to take it to the dealer just so that they can tell me whether or not it needs replacement...

Any help would be appreciated!