My 2012 Outlander is over 80k miles, checked the user manual and it says that the timing belt should be replaced at 105k. Should I wait until I get close to 105 or should I bite the bullet and do it early to avoid problems?

 

No need to do it early. It's an expensive job, and 105k seems like a fairly conservative interval for the belts they make today (likely Kevlar). I did mine at 105k with no issues, so I see no reason to not trust the recommended interval and spend the money before it's time.

 

same here, I changed my belt at 110k miles and it looked brand new (but mine never sees harsh weather) I couldn't tell the difference between the new one except by the markings

 

Thanks guys, had one break on a Subaru so trying not to repeat that experience.

 

One small detail that might have coused your worries: Subarus have rubber timing belts that require more frequent replacements and more prone to damages. Mitsubishi's ( 2.0 L, 2.4 L gasoline engines, but 3.0 L V6 has a belt, please see the next post for clarification) on the other hand have timing chains. You should follow the owner's manual for replacement and should be fine.

 

the 6B31 (3.0V6 MIVEC) uses a kevlar timing belt

 

this is correct. My first change at 110k miles, there was some fraying on edges, but teeth in great shape...no cracks. Replaced with Goodyear gatorback belts. At 220k miles did it again, belts in great shape. Goodyear sold gatorback line to continental....so replaced with continedntals....fingers crossed it goes to 330k miles. At 230k miles now.

 

Ccernst did you replace the Water pump everytime you do the belt replacement?

 

Thank you for the correction.

 

mine is the 4cyl Outlander, believe is a belt.