I bought the vehicle one year ago at 68k, it was a lease vehicle. It is now at 80,230 miles. It runs smooth, I take good care of it. I am aware the timing belt needs to be replaced at 60k. I do not know if it was done before I bought the vehicle, and I don't think I can pull any service records (tips to do so would be appreciated). It shifts smooth, it runs smooth.

What are the symptoms (if any) that the timing belt needs to be replaced? Will I feel anything? Smell anything? Will it drive different?

Also if I do go to check the timing belt, where can I open the timing belt cover and with what tools?

thanks!

 

There will be no signs or symptoms to let you know the belt is about to break. It will just snap without warning. And there is really nothing to check for either. If you do not have any kind of written proof it was changed before, assume it's original and get it changed TODAY.

 

i believe the 3.3 has a chain and does not have to be changed

 

While that is true it doesn't help the original poster who has a 2004 Santa Fe with a 3.5L V6 which does have a belt that needs changing every 60K miles.