Bridget H

My 2000 Civic DX has 116K miles on it. I bought it at 97k and don't know if the previous owner ever got its timing belt changed. I removed the valve cover+ pushed aside the timing belt cover and can't really come to any conclusions by looking at the belt. Is there a way to turn the belt a bit without running the engine? (to see belt brand/possible markings. Also, what is the belt supposed to feel like? Ther ouside feels very hard, almost metallic, but the teeth (or ribs, or whatever) are pretty soft.

RAUL R

it should be replaced near the 100k mark. if you can see it the belt should have a bit of play like less than a 1\4 inch. the bottom of the belt has teeth if its a rubber belt or a chain belt. either way, its a good idea to replace it near that mileage.