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Galenahokie Galenahokie OP
May 13, 2026 at 10:53 AM ET
Timing belt; age or mileage? My Porsche 944 had it's timing belt replaced
8 or 10 years ago, but I probably haven't driven it 4,000 miles since then. Opinions on whether it should be replaced again or ride with it? This vehicle is strictly for amusement.

10 Replies

`lag `lag
2mo
I wouldn't think it would be a problem...
I'm seeing 60 to 100k for replacement type stuff, nothing on age.
PhotoHokieNC PhotoHokieNC
2mo
Looks pretty good from here.
;-/
E
EDGEMAN
2mo
If you're curious, have a shop check its condition to see if there's any...
...dry rot or other deterioration of the belt. I would think it's OK, but one never knows...
Galenahokie Galenahokie OP
2mo
By the time they get the belt covers off, it's not that much more labor to
replace it.
MP4VT2004 MP4VT2004
2mo
That was going to be my advice, too.
If it's an interference engine, I'd probably have someone you trust check the condition of the belt. If it's a non-interference engine (doubtful, but I know nothing about Porsches), I'd drive it without worry until you hit the mileage at which replacement is recommended.
Galenahokie Galenahokie OP
2mo
It is most definitely an interference engine.
Brown Water Brown Water
2mo
What's the worst that can happen, it snaps and he needs a new engine?
`lag `lag
2mo
MP4 refers to "interference" engines that is...
the pistons and valves don't clear each other, so if the belt were to snap well yeah, they'd maybe totally destroy the engine. ButI know nothing about Porsches. ** Edited by `lag at 5/13/2026, 12:10:17 PM
E
EDGEMAN
2mo
Well...
Yep. But he can use that excuse to build it into a more powerful engine...lol ** Edited by EDGEMAN at 5/13/2026, 11:33:03 AM
Brown Water Brown Water
2mo
I'd wager mileage is the bigger factor. Unless the belt is 30 years old.