the car still runs the same, which is a good thing. i got my timing belt / water pump changed. does anyone notice a difference after changing their timing belt? i have a big peice of mind that all the maintnance is done but thats pretty much it.

 

Good to know, the timing and water pump is just one of the preventative maintenance just like you replace the brake pads before it metal to metal or another word before its too late.

 

Only in extreme cases will you feel a difference after replacing the timing belt and related components. Belts dont stretch that much, but if they become contaminated, the rubber can stretch. But for the most part, you just get to have that warm feeling inside knowing your car is running in top shape

 

I will be getting that feeling when I do my 90k service this weekend

 

Unless you are replacing a BROKEN timing belt, (which costs thousands since you pretty much have to completely repair the engine) you probably wont feel too much of a difference. I have 125K on my '99 GS4 which I bought when it had 113K and the previous owner was a complete moron and couldnt remember whether he had the timing belt changed. I am getting it replaced, along with the waterpump, this weekend. The prev. owner said he THINKS he got it done at around 70K. If he didn't, I am pushing my luck, if he did get it done at 70K, then it probably could use a new one anyway.

 

If you did feel a difference after a T-belt replacement, i would be concerned that the timing wasn't set right. I've changed alot of these and if done properly, you can't tell it was done at all. But you will sleep easier. And always replace the water pump.

 

The only belts where you can really feel something are the accessory belts. When they are dirty, it is noticeable. I wash them every week before going up to my track (not tonight though due to weather), and the vehicle pulls better. This was true both before and after I installed a lightweight crank pulley.