Replacing camshaft seal and front engine seal

Hi.

To replace the cam seals, you need to remove the timing belt. I suspect they are recommending it to eliminate labor if the belt or pump need replaced in the near future.

To answer your question, no. The pump and belt does is not required. However, it is recommended to save labor costs in the future. I noted the mileage. If the belt has over 100,000 on it, this is the time to replace it. Once everything is apart, the water pump is right there to replace as well since it is driven by the timing belt.

Let me know if you need help or have questions.

Take care,
Joe

Does the $1,100.00 include everything? I attached a pic below that shows parts and labor for the belt. Then it indicates labor additional labor for additional components including the seal and water pump. This doesn't include the parts as far as the seal and pump, but it will give you an idea if the price quoted is in line.

Now I have to be honest. I look at thing a bit differently than a lot of people, so this is nothing more than my opinion.

If you can afford to find something with low mileage, you may be better off. Although the vehicle you have is still in good condition and $1,100.00 is less than you can replace it for, one has to remember this. Although most vehicles run a lot longer than they have in the past, they still have many components that simply wear out. For example, bearings, sensors, modules, computers and so on. Since it has 280,000 on it, you may replace the belt and then find something else expensive fails simply due to wear. I would hate to say fix it and then in two weeks the transmission fails simply to wear. Does that make sense?

Again, that is nothing more than one person's opinion.

Please feel free to let me know if you have other questions or need help. Also, you are always welcome to return in the future if you need anything.

Take good care of yourself.

Joe