Hyundai Repair: timing belt, timing belts, recommendation service


Question
I believe the timing belt should be replaced every 60,000 miles.

The service on my 2003 Elantra has recommendation service based on miles or months which ever comes first & I see the value of that, but on a timing belt if my months come up first since I do not drive a lot, I assume using 60,000 miles and not months would be realistic. Am I correct? Advise/Taanks

Answer
Rubber deteriorates with age as well as flexing, so you should consider both time (four years) as well as mileage.

That being said, timing belts on your engine seem to last well beyond the 4 year/60,000 mile mark.  I doubt you'll see one fail close to that interval.  By the same token, you're the one that stands to suffer the consequences, so the decision is ultimately up to you.  The longer you wait, the higher the probability something will happen.