Valid point todd. However, there are 2 levels to the timing belt service. If you are strictly talking about the belt and water pump, I am sure any competent mechanic could perform this. However, if you do what lexus recommends, which is the also taking out both camshafts and replacing the camshaft seals, that is another level of complexity and requires another 7-8 hours of labor. Personally, I don't want someone who is not experienced with the 3UZ to perform this surgery.

If you do go the more detailed route, you also can double up on the labor and get
1) rad flushed- when was the last time this was done?
2) MAF cleaned
3) throttle body cleaned
4) spark plugs done, which are due at 100K

I had all of the above done so I should be good for another 90-100K. My MAF and throttle body were very dirty and needed cleaning. I was out the door with for just over 2K to give you a reference point.

Like most of us, we try to make an educated decision based on facts and I am simply disseminating info. No one wants to pay more than needed. Again, this is my 2 cents, everyone gets to make their own decision for themselves, it's your budget.

 

My Toyota dealer has two trained master Lexus techs. Both t belt jobs where done without a hitch for around 600 - 650 bucks without tensioner or idler and have had not had problems. Take a coupon with you and often dealers will use other shops coupons. It is the end of month and year hopefully you can get a deal.

 

1244 for a t belt alone is ridiculous.

 

http://www.byersvolvo.com/specials/service.htm

Here is a 20 percent off coupon from a Volvo Dealer in Columbus I think they have a Byers Toyota also. For reference my Toyota dealer will use anyones coupons. Worth a try Also, anytime you get a new water pump my guys do all new rad fluid which should be done at 100k ish miles. While at it get a tranny service, and rear end service.

 

Thanks everyone for the note. After researching a lot and talked to many different dealerships, I finally decide to bring it to the Lexus dealership.

I definitely don't think I get a good deal, but as a conservative accountant who do not have any experience of auto industry, bringing it to the lexus dealer might be the better choice.

Here is the breakdown:

Total cost: 1800;
Includes:

Timing belt change,
Water pump,
coolant,
Oil and filter change,
tire rotation,
engine air filter change,
drive belt change,
transmission service,
rear differential service,
inspection;

I think if I am a car person, I might get all theses done for $500 less; If DIY, might be $1000 less.

 

I hope I saw your post before bringing my car to Lexus! I forgot about volvo...