2001 S40 timing belt refresh?

kstinmb · Post by **kstinmb** » 25 Feb 2013, 15:27

We have a 2001 S40, delivered in November 2000, with just 76,000 miles. My wife's car, it now only gets about 5,000 miles a year.

Can we wait until 100,000 miles to have the timing belt refreshed? Or should it be done sooner due to the age? Is there a DIY write-up to see what's involved and whether I can do it myself?

Many thanks,
-stephen
Myrtle Beach SC

keithatcpt · Post by **keithatcpt** » 26 Feb 2013, 06:34

Take the plastic covers off the top of the engine with a T25? Torx. Two clips (Front and back) on the timing belt cover will expose the timing belt. If there are any cracks in the timing belt, change it ASAP.

It will take another 5 years for you to reach 100,000 miles. I wouldn't trust a rubber belt to last 15 years, not when the consequences of that belt breaking are that you trash the valves.

Mine lasted until 141,000 miles before the belt broke with the previous owner, but the belt was only 8 years old.

As for doing it yourself, it can be done, buy a subscription to Alldatadiy and follow the instructions carefully. Double check that the timing belt marks line up by rotating the engine manually two revolutions before you start it.

Post by **regent** » 26 Feb 2013, 09:44

buy a subscription to Alldatadiy

I do not think this would be a justifyable expense. There is plenty of info on the forum, and if you need the VIDA procedure, I can attach it for free.

Please let us know

Post by **regent** » 27 Feb 2013, 15:14

Sorry it took a while to respond to your PM - my daytime job keeps me far away from my VIDA computer

If you've got the B4204T5 engine with 5-speed Auto Transmission, the attached procedure will be for you

(If not, let me know the exact specifics, and I will re-post)