Mitsubishi Repair: 2002 Mitsubishi Diamante, timing belt replacement, mitsubishi diamante

Question
The owner's manual indicates Timing belt replacement at 60K miles.  the 2001 says 100k.  approaching 62K.  Is this urgent need or do I still have a little time.  What is the danger to the engine if it breaks?

Answer
Brenda: Do you know that old saying... "It is better to be safe than sorry"? If your timing belt breaks while you are driving the car down the road, it will take the valves in the engine. If it takes the valves you will have to have the engine over hauled and you are talking a lot of money. It is far better to spend a bit now and get the timing belt replaced, then spend a lot later to replace the timing belt and over haul the engine. Only one time in my life was I lucky and the timing belt broke as I shut off the engine of my car. Most of time they do a lot of damage when they break.  I would replace the timing belt now. Hope this helps you and good luck! Linda