Mitsubishi Repair: Timing Belt Work, timing belt, car dealership

Question
Hello Linda, how are you?.. i wanted to ask if its necessary to change my water pump with my timing belt. my car has 80k and i know its safe to do a timing belt job.. i have a 98 eclipse rs, and wanted to know what is a fair price on timing belt job and if i need to change my pump as well what will be a fair price?.. i know it all depends on the shop but im afraid to get screwed.. thanks a lot..

Answer
Walter: Sorry I did not get back to your sooner but I got to much sun and got sick because of that. Opps... But anyway, I have to tell you that all this is only an idea on my part. Because if you live in a large city or a small town and if you take your car to a shop or a large car dealership. I would say anywhere from $400.00 to $800.00. And heck it might be cheaper too. You need to get your phone, make a list and call around. Seeing what each shop will charge you. Make sure before putting the car in that shop that they give you an idea on paper on what everything will cost. Don't let them tell you that they have no idea... because they have a parts list and will know the time it takes so the cost for their labor. Also keep them honest ask to see all the old parts they take off your car to make sure they do replace them if it is a shop you don't know. If they don't want to do this then take your car someplace else. I hope this helps and good luck! Linda