New here - need advice to go or no-go on timing belt

[ScottyRt66]

Bought a ‘00 Xterra with 4wd for my daughter to take out of town. Lots of miles (350k) but everything looked decent, and mechanic’s check out looked clean.
Timing belt wasn’t on the radar and has since given up, stranded her on the way to work.

So… is timing belt a DIY? I can turn a wrench, but this feels pretty invasive for what I usually attempt on my own.

 

[Muadeeb]

It is a DIY, but it'll take the better part of a day your first time. Go slow, grab a pizza box to keep track of the screws (4 different kinds), and you'll be OK.

 

[kirk]

You are a braver man than me, if you tackle it. But around here its a $850 job to have a shop do.

 

[reaver]

Bought a ‘00 Xterra with 4wd for my daughter to take out of town. Lots of miles (350k) but everything looked decent, and mechanic’s check out looked clean.
Timing belt wasn’t on the radar and has since given up, stranded her on the way to work.

So… is timing belt a DIY? I can turn a wrench, but this feels pretty invasive for what I usually attempt on my own.

VG33 is an interference engine. Which means that when the belt goes, there's a chance it could damage the valves when it does. Finger's crossed that didn't happen to you.

My sister had hers done shortly after buying her 02, and I think it was about 850, including parts as well.