Q&A

 Master

On 1998 and later Toyota Sienna's Toyota called for timing belt replacement every 90,000 miles or 72 months. The good news is that if the timing belt brakes the engine does not experience serious internal engine damage but I would strongly suggest replacing the timing belt for peace of mind. There is no warning light!

Replacing a timing belt costs a lot of $$$ for a Sienna...close to $1000 if the water pump is replaced at the same time as it should be. I asked the same question you are asking when I purchased my used 2004. I was told that there is a sticker placed inside the engine compartment when it is done. It comes as part of the kit. More than likely it was not done. The owner would remember if he spent that much money. You will see an awful lot of Siennas for sale just before the 90,000 mile mark because they know what needs to be included in the scheduled maintenance

When i doubt, just change it anyways. It's not worth the risk. $1k may sound like alot of $$$, but if you plan on keeping your car for a little longer, it's worth the piece of mind! I've owned over 15 cars, from minivans to sport compacts, I've never had to pay more than $500 for a Timing Belt/Water pump repair. If your set on Genuine parts, just order the parts online and have a dependable shop do the labor...that will save u tons of $$$!

I have a 1998 (13 yrs old) Sienna purchased new that now has 130k and I have not replaced the timing belt. The supplement manual (pg 31)says replacement every 90k if "operated under extensive idling or low speed driving for long distances as in heavy commercial use such as delivery, taxi, or patrol car", which is not my driving. I will replace only if the water pump goes first. If it was an interference design I would probably play it safe and replace it. The overall condition is so good I can see this Toyota lasting an additional 10 years.

 Rookie

My 2000 Sienna has over 160k miles without replacing the timing belt. We were going to do it, but never had enough extra cash laying around to do it. It still runs great.