Timing Belt replacement .... and water pump?

[br1anstorm]

I have a 2002 IS300 SportCross.  I have owned it since 2011, I am only the second owner and I have the service history.  The cambelt (timing belt) was replaced in 2008 at 41,000 miles.

The car has now done about 115,000 miles, so perhaps I should be thinking of replacing the belt again.  Is it too soon to do so?  How easy is it simply to check the condition of the belt?  The actual replacement task looks like a garage workshop job, not a DIY project that I would want to tackle.

If I do go ahead, I assume it will be important to use genuine Lexus/Toyota parts, as this is not something where it's worth taking risks with non-OEM replacements.  Any suggestions on the best sources for a belt-replacement kit would be welcome.

And.... is it necessary - or prudent - to replace the water pump at the same time?  My own instinct is that "if it ain't broke, don't fix it..."  .  But if the belt is going to be changed, should I get the water pump (which is not that cheap!) changed too?

[scudney]

Personally I would have it done as soon as possible, better to be safe than sorry, no its not too soon, its long overdue and if it were to snap, you might as well say goodbye to your car, yes it makes sense to replace the water pump as the same time too. You can either go lexus or aftermarket, if lexus you can try lexus parts direct,there is a link on the forum. Please get it replaced ASAP, good luck and all the best 👍 

[Spock66]

1 hour ago, br1anstorm said:

But if the belt is going to be changed, should I get the water pump (which is not that cheap!) changed too?

Yes if you are planning to keep the car.