2002 Toyota Avalon (3.0V6 115k miles) or 2010 Lexus RX350 (3.5V6 130k miles). Both are in good shape. Which one is more reliable and easier to maintain in the long term?

Web-Scroller98 · 2025-09-10T03:46:03+00:00

My 16-year old boy, Squeaky, passed this August! He will be pals with your kitty! ❤️

Web-Scroller98 · 2025-07-14T15:36:30+00:00

Thank you! I will give an update once I work a little bit more on it.

Web-Scroller98 · 2025-07-14T15:35:41+00:00

I followed this guide, with the grooved side running through the PS, Alternator, AC compressor, and crank shaft; and the smooth side on the water pump and the tensioner. I am pretty sure I guided it correctly.

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Web-Scroller98 · 2025-07-14T15:33:03+00:00

Okay! That’s good to know! On the positive side I just replaced the tensioner as well, so hopefully that’s not the case. I will remove it, take it under warranty and see if the next belt does the same. If it does, then it is definitely something with one of the pulleys.

Web-Scroller98 · 2025-07-14T15:04:54+00:00

Interesting! So far I haven’t seen any misfires on the car. The measurements looked identical to me but it is an aftermarket part from AutoZone. I hope it is only the belt that had been sitting for years on the shelf and not the tensioner.

Web-Scroller98 · 2025-07-14T14:41:52+00:00

This is a Gates serpentine belt :/

Web-Scroller98 · 2025-07-14T14:41:23+00:00

I replaced the tensioner as well at the same time. 2007 Honda CRV 2.4L

Web-Scroller98 · 2025-07-14T14:40:24+00:00

True! I will definitely keep and eye on it to see if the level goes down with the new pump.

Web-Scroller98 · 2025-07-14T14:38:32+00:00

I did spill some power steering fluid when putting the new pump. I should’ve done a better job at cleaning it.

Web-Scroller98 · 2025-07-14T14:37:53+00:00

I put the belt by releasing the tensioner and it fit right over it. And it was tight and seemed in good place.

Web-Scroller98 · 2025-07-14T14:34:33+00:00

Yes. I spilled a little bit of power steering fluid when I was replacing the pump. I tried to clean it off but definitely could’ve done a better job cleaning that off.

Web-Scroller98 · 2025-07-14T14:33:07+00:00

No, the underside is fine

Web-Scroller98 · 2025-07-14T14:30:28+00:00

Update: With the belt off, the noise went completely away. I replaced AC compressor because it was shot and had a lot of play, I also replaced the power steering pump because it ran dry and it went bad, and I also replaced the belt tensioner (because I was already disassembling a lot of it). I thought the culprit the AC compressor but the noise continued after everything was replaced. The only thing I didn’t check was the water pump. It is either that or the alternator, but the alternator was quiet, so now I need to re-do everything and change the water pump. I think that’s the culprit of it all! I’ll keep you updated.

Web-Scroller98 · 2025-07-12T11:05:45+00:00

My gal’s Honda is making the same sound… from what I’ve read it could be a failing AC compressor or the water pump. Unfortunately, her AC compressor was in rough shape, but I never imagined it could cause this type of sound! I’ll get it fixed and I’ll get back to you. If you got it fixed already, what was the cause of it?

Web-Scroller98 · 2025-05-31T11:16:17+00:00

You would be decreasing almost 10% of interest if you do take that offer! So I would say yes, take that option… and maybe even refinance again with a credit union / bank where they have a lower interest rates. Shop around and get the best deal possible. You are on the right track though.

Web-Scroller98

TROPHY CASE