Jackwillsa

I just purchased a 2005 ES 330 with 65,000 mile. Should I replace the timing belt and water pump. Please share estimated cost for said repair. Please share any thoughts on brand of tires to purchase. This car is driven by my 17 year old son. Thanks in advance for your replies!

RXGS

iTrader: (2)

Mileage wise you can wait a bit longer, time wise its over due. Personally, I would wait, but others here will say change it right now because the consequence of a rare, but not unheard of, broken timing belt is usually a new engine. When you do change the belt, make sure to change the water pump as well. I paid $710 for the belt and water pump to be changed at the dealer a few months ago on my 2004 with 96k miles, and that was with a 20% discount. Service advisor said the belt and pump were still in very good shape though. Expect to pay over $600 no matter where you go.

As for tires, if money is no option, Michelins are your best bet, but I have Continental Extreme Contact DWSs that I really like. I usually have snow tires, but the one time I got stuck in the snow with these on, it was far from uncontrollable. Bridgestone Potenzas are nice too, but their tread life is mediocre at best. Right now on EBAY, discount tire has a $100 off a purchase of $400 or more, so between the discount, additional rebates, no tax, and free shipping, there are some ridiculously good deals on Yokohama and Hankook tires, both of which I've also have good experiences with.

Jackwillsa

Thanks for your reply. I plan to replace the timing belt and water pump. I agree that Michelin tires are recommended. I had a tire guy recommend a Uniroyal Tiger Paw NT. They are half the price. This is my sons car.

speedkar9

Don't get the Uniroyal tires for a Lexus. They are noisy and wear out quick, my dad had a set on his Sienna a few years back.

Michelins are great, but not that good in snow. I've also got a pair of Pirelli P7's on the front of my Solara and they've been good so far, and have gotten good reviews.

BDSL

Your owner's manual specifies the belt interval. It is xxx distance or yy months whichever comes first.
If the belt snaps, the engine will stall, you would have no power steering, lost of vacuum assisted braking, etc....it can be dangerous depending on where and when the engine stalls.
It might also have damaged your engine depending if your engine is interference or non-interference.
Most shop would replace the water pump when doing timing belt because it is just one more hour to get to it....
I have replaced just the belt (leaving the water pump) before. To replace the timing belt on my 97 ES, it took me 2 hours. On my 06 ES, it took me 2.5 hours.

As for tires, you can find tons of review here http://www.tirerack.com
However, some people would only use one brand of tire religiously....

1960vw

Recent belt and pump change cost me $700. Best insurance to pay for! Tires are any ones favorite as BDSL said.