'96 Accord LX timing belt change

[stevegula]

I've got a friend with a '96 Accord LX four banger. Dealership wants $900. He's lookin for input on what a reasonable cost for it would be. Dealership said potential for gaskets, water pump, etc to be replaced. Thoughts/comments/etc. I don't know dick about this stuff and neither does he.

He's also gotta change his motor mounts. Any recommendations on after market ones, if necesary? It's a stock Accord he drives to work, nothing special.

[BLINGMW]

I'm no Honda guy, but I was quoted $600 something for my wife's '90 Accord from a reputable shop when we were in Atlanta. They are kind of a bitch on that car IMHO, but $900 seems a bit steep. I ended up doing it myself.... all day. If that engine's anything like hers, it's two belts, you have to remove all the accessories to get there, you do the water pump while you're there, it's super fun. The motor mounts OTOH are fairly easy (you have to disconnect one of them when you do the belt anyway), but for a street car I imagine the stock replacements are fine.

[Andy]

Ourisman Honda quoted my sister's 96 Accord 600 bucks as well. It's not that hard but 600 bucks is the going rate with the occassional service special for 499. Shop around. Also, the car is common enough that most shops should be able to do it without an issue.

If RJ is as broke as he claims, he might be willing to do it for a little compensation.

With regard to the motor mounts, which ones are bad. If it's just the front or rear one, just buy poly inserts for 40-60 bucks. Cheaper than OEM replacements. If it's the L-R mounts, those are hydraulic and around a 100 bucks a piece.

[Kaan]

get stock mounts... replace the water pump with the timing belt... i REALLY doubt you'll have to replace any gaskets... you might see one thats gone bad, but you would have to replace it.

[Evan]

Go to Kim's Auto in Annandale. Should be around $300

[Andy]

Go to Kim's Auto in Annandale. Should be around $300

Kim's Auto are great guys. My father in law has been going to them for 15+ years. They're doing the timing belt on Joan's Outback with its freak boxer engine for 500 where the dealer wanted 1100. Go figure.