Mitsubishi Repair: Eclipse Timing belt tensioner, timing belt tensioner, eclipse gs

Question
Hi im driving a 95 eclipse gs 2.0L automatic...and the timing belt just went.  my mechanic is also saying I'll need a new tensioner which he said hes never seen a tensioner be so expensive...180.  But im looking online and seeing tensioners for 60 bucks!  Is this guy totally ripping me off?  Or are sites like parts train just bogus?

thanks!


Answer
David,
Unfortunately, your mechanic is pretty close to the actual price (including tax).  The dealership price for an OEM timing belt tensioner for your car is $164.50.  The OEM part number is M04667283.  Replacing the tensioner when doing a timing belt change is the best practice.

The partstrain.com is referring to the timing belt tensioner pulley; not the actual tensioner.  You would need to refer to the T-Belt Tension Adjuster.  This is what is really needed, and those are quite expensive.  

Since no place is going to have a fantastic deal on parts, I would recommend having the dealership perform your timing belt change, if you can.  The dealership is far more qualified to replace your timing belt, and will make fewer mistakes than the average local mechanic.  For most repairs and service, your local mechanics are just fine.  But for something as critical as your timing belt, you should consider having the dealership do it.
Good luck!