Learn About Your Car

Timing Belt Idler Pulley Replacement Cost

Estimates last updated January 1, 1970

1996 Toyota Celica Timing Belt Idler Pulley Replacement Cost

The average cost for a 1996 Toyota Celica Timing Belt Idler Pulley Replacement is between $285 and $494.

Labor costs are estimated between $244 and $358 while parts are priced between $41 and $136.
This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
For a more accurate estimate based on your location, use our Fair Price Estimator below.

Timing Belt Idler Pulley Replacement

What is a Timing Chain Idler Pulley?

To properly route the timing belt to necessary components, the timing belt idler pulley is used. The idler pulley is a metal wheel with a smooth exterior, and serves no other purpose but to hold the timing belt in place as it drives the timing gears.

How does a Timing Chain Idler Pulley work?

The idler pulley is bolted through the center into the engine, and the smooth side of the timing belt turns the pulley to reduce friction and heat.

What are the symptoms of a bad Timing Chain Idler Pulley?

If the idler pulley fails, there will be a very audible chirping noise from the front of the engine. This is because the idler pulley bearing is no longer smooth. If it is not changed immediately, the engine will being running roughly, or stall completely, and internal engine damage may occur due to slippage or breakage of the timing belt. The check engine light will illuminate on the dashboard in the event of total failure, and OBD trouble codes for misfires, crankshaft position, and camshaft position will be stored.

Need a repair? Trust our RepairPal Certified network.

With thousands of repair shops to choose from, how do you find one that is honest and fair? We've done the research for you.

Toyota Timing Belt Idler Pulley Replacement Cost Estimates

The average cost for a Timing Belt Idler Pulley Replacement is between $285 and $494 but can vary from car to car.

Toyota Celica Timing Belt Idler Pulley Replacement Cost by Year

The average cost for a Toyota Celica Timing Belt Idler Pulley Replacement is between $285 and $494 but can vary from car to car.

Disclaimer

Materials Included Under License from Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. License Agreement TMS1008. All information contained in any materials obtained about Toyota, Lexus, and Scion vehicles is based on the latest product information available at the time of publication, is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind, and is intended for service providers and other interested parties in Canada, Mexico, and the United States of America, including Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Specifications and procedures are subject to change without notice. This information is provided expressly for the purpose of use by professional automobile technicians who have special techniques and certifications. Repair or service by non-specialized or uncertified technicians using only this information, or without proper equipment or tools, may cause severe injury to the individual or other individuals and could possibly cause damage to the vehicle. Certain procedures or content elements may make reference to Toyota Warranty policy or practice – these policies or practices are only applicable to Toyota, Lexus, or Scion dealers.

More RepairPal Resources

Timing Belt Idler Pulley Replacement

Jump to:Commonly associated repairs Cost estimates by vehicle Cost estimates by year

What is a Timing Chain Idler Pulley?

How does a Timing Chain Idler Pulley work?

The idler pulley is bolted through the center into the engine, and the smooth side of the timing belt turns the pulley to reduce friction and heat.

What are the symptoms of a bad Timing Chain Idler Pulley?

Can I drive with a bad Timing Chain Idler Pulley?

It is not recommended to drive a vehicle suspected of idler pulley bearing failure. This can quickly result in complete engine failure as described above.

How often do Timing Chain Idler Pulleys need replacement?

Timing belt idler pulleys are replaced during a timing belt replacement service, either as preventive maintenance or due to suspected failure. This means the average idler pulley replacement occurs between 60,000 and 105,000 miles, depending on the manufacturer specified timing belt service interval.

How are Timing Chain Idler Pulley issues diagnosed?

Diagnosis of a failed or failing idler pulley requires removal of many components, and hands on inspection of the idler pulley. If the servicing technician finds the pulley is loose or damaged in any way, they will recommend immediate replacement of, at minimum, the timing belt and idler pulley.

How are Timing Chain Idler Pulleys replaced?

At a minimum, replacement involves removal of the timing cover, timing belt tensioner, timing belt, and, finally the timing belt pulley. When this service is performed, it is common to replace the timing belt, water pump, and seals. Once all components are replaced, the timing components can be installed onto the engine, and the engine will be tested for proper operation and timing.

RepairPal Recommendations for Timing Chain Idler Pulley issues

Since this service requires removal of the timing belt, it is recommended to replace the timing belt, water pump, and possibly front seals at the same time, unless they have been recently serviced. This is much more cost effective than returning for the same service after a partial service interval has elapsed.

What to look out for when dealing with Timing Chain Idler Pulley issues

Some engines use more than one timing belt idler pulley, which affects the cost of the repair slightly. The pulley can fail at random, especially if debris is pinched between the timing belt and the idler pulley. It may be necessary for the motor mounts to be removed from the vehicle, as well as engine cooling fans, the radiator, and all engine accessories.

Can I replace the Timing Chain Idler Pulley myself?

Since timing belt idler pulley replacement necessitates the removal of timing components, it is not recommended for the DIYer to attempt this task. A thorough knowledge of internal engine components, engine timing, and several specialty tools are required to properly perform this repair.