car timing belt replacement cost

For most cars in Australia, a timing belt replacement typically lands around $700–$1,500, depending on engine layout and how deep the spanners must dive.

Many mechanics do the full kit—belt, tensioners, idlers—and often the water pump; with coolant and seals, parts usually total $250–$600 and labour is 3–6 hours (or more on cramped engines).

At a dealer on a near‑new car, expect roughly $1,000–$2,000; on an older used car at a reputable independent, $600–$1,400 is common, assuming nothing’s seized and your bolts behave.

If your engine is an interference design, skipping it can turn pistons and valves into modern art, so follow the time/km interval in the logbook.

Pro tip: replace the water pump and drive belts while you’re in there—pay once, cry once, and get back to smugly beating traffic lights.