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Hi Jack.

My wife has a 1994 Toyota Corolla which we've had from new. She only travels about 5,000 K's per year and it's always had it's scheduled service, including cam belt changes. The cam belt is now due for it's 5 yearly replacement.

My dilemma is that I can't quite afford to replace both the cam belt and water pump as well as the service (I generally get both belt and pump replaced at the same time) and wonder if I am wise missing out on these vital changes. My local garage has done a visual check on the belt and say that it doesn't look worn at all and the water pump sounds fine. I am aware what can happen when the belt breaks. A I taking too much of a gamble?

Would appreciate your comments.

Thanks,

Ian

I understand your dilemma. I had to face the same situation myself recently with my wife’s car. Low mileage but over 5 years old.

I decided to change the belt but left the water pump. In all honesty the old belt looked almost brand new once removed, but replacing it has provided peace of mind and I don’t have to think about it anymore.

The issue you may face is the garage not wanting to fit a new belt without replacing the water pump.

I can’t say do nothing, but if the car has travelled less than say 20K since the belt and pump were replaced then the chances of a breakage in the short term are very slim in my opinion.

Talk to your mechanic and ask if the service and belt replacement can be spread out to help reduce the costs.