5s-fe timing belt age limit

[blanik]

I searched for this subject and I was surprised that I got no results. So, I'll just ask: 1. How many years should a timing belt last on a 2001 Camry with the four cylinder 5s-fe engine? It's my mother's car, she doesn't drive much, and she is the original owner. It has about 25k miles on it and it has the original timing belt. As I recall, the owner's manual says it should be changed every 6 years and, obviously, that is very conservative. The way I see it, the belt should have very little wear, but I know rubber disintegrates as time passes. This belt is about 13 years old. 2. Has anybody had one last more years? I know how difficult it is to replace one on a VW, and I think it is best to replace every wear item on that end of the engine (water pump, seals, tensioners, etc.)while it is apart because it is so difficult to get to them. And that makes the job expensive. So, I want to put it off until it is necessary. 3. Also, if there is an age limit on timing belts, shouldn't there be a manufacturing date stamped on the belt? I know the Continental belt I put on my VW did not have one. If I don't know how old the belt is when I buy it, I don't know when I should replace it (especially since I don't yet know how many years it should last). I understand that the engine in not an interference engine, so if the belt breaks, it will just stop, not destroy itself. 4. Is it difficult to inspect the belt for cracks in the rubber? Thanks in advance for your help.

[Toyota Owners Club]

If Toyota recommends 6 years and it had been 13 then I would get it changed as soon as possible. Not worth the risk in my opinion.

[greggolden]

I would call Toyota (mfr headquarters) in California and just get their opinion. Generally, I agree with the last comment: If your belt is really that old, get it and the related parts changed now. Less headache down the road.