I am looking to buy a 97 prelude. It has 105K the seller bought it at an auction and doesn't know if the timing belt was replaced. My question is, is there a way to tell if the belt has been replaced or not?

 

Anyone here will probably tell you just to change it. And i wouldnt disagree. I guess look at the belt to see if it looks dry, or cracked, or if it has some shredding of the material. Thats my best recommendation if you really dont wanna change it. good luck

 

What happens if i dont replace it? I read about something called an interference engine? Is my engine one?

 

dont change it and the belt breaks, you could destroy valves at the least and the pistons and valves at the worst..just change it.

 

i just had mine done my lude had 102000 on it and i didnt want to take any chances w/ it it is pretty serious. so when possible i would get it all done belts seals tensioner and water pump. it will be cheaper than replacing ur motor. but theres no real way 2 tell w/o taking it 2 a shop so im told i was on the same boat good luck

 

Sure there is a way to tell. Remove the upper timing cover and look at the belt. On the very corners of the humps if they are torn,worn, or showing any type of strand material, it should be replaced or at the least have a full inspection. With the water pump, if the previous owner has no record of it being changed i would do that as well.