Ford Focus ZX3 camshaft belt

Asked by Kyle Nov 18, 2014 at 06:39 PM about the 2003 Ford Focus ZX3

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

I have an 03 FFZX3 that I bought used with approx 125K miles. The maintenance
book from Ford suggests that at 120k the camshaft belt should be replaced. The quote
I got from a local Ford dealership, parts and labor included (they suggested I should
change the water pump at the same time, which seemed reasonable) was over
$1500.00!! The car is in excellent condition and runs well, and I would like to keep it as
long as possible, but I only paid $4500.00 for it. $1500 seems excessive for a drive
belt. So here are my questions:

1) Is there any indication beforehand that a camshaft belt is going to break?
2) Is it common for FFZX3 camshaft belts to ever break?
3) If the camshaft belt breaks during operation, does it do any other damage to the
engine, or will I just be out the $1500.00 (plus the price of a tow)? In other words,
should I just drive the car until (if ever) the belt breaks?
4) Is this a reasonable price? I have the parts/price list if that helps.

Thanks!

3 Answers
144,795

T_S_T answered 10 years ago

#1)No,it could happen at any time ,,with no warning,if belt has more than 100000 mile,s on it.#2)Yes,it happen,s more often if not replaced.#3)If timing belt break,s it will cause damage to the head more than likely,and turn 1500,into 3000.#4)At a dealer this is about the right price,but if you know of a good non dealer mechanic ,you may save a little,but find one that is reputable.

1 people found this helpful.
Mark helpful
75

anyname answered 10 years ago

Are you mechanically inclined, if so there are videos on you tube that shows how to do it. I did mine , not that bad

Mark helpful

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