I asked my local independent Acura/Honda repair shop about a complete tune-up to include plugs, wires and whatever else they do, to include a timing belt replacement with tension arm. I think this would include a new serpentine belt? His estimate was $1500 which sounds pretty high, any thoughts on this? He also didn't recommend synthetic oil?

I am about to top 80K on a 2001 CL-S. I will be driving a lot in the next 8 months with little time to leave my car for the repairs except for next month and December, so I am thinking of getting all this work done.

I know the work is earlier than recommended, but I get frequent spark knocking and the car is kind of weak.

Thanks for the help.

 

None of that is needed until 104,000 miles. If he is charging for new plug wires, I would suggest you run away, fast, and find another dealer! Are you using top grade gas? Run a couple of tanks of gas with Chevron Techron fuel additive in it and see if it helps your knocking/power problems.

 

I will try the Techron. I had a fuel system cleaning about a year ago and it didn't seem to make a difference either.

 

I don't know what state you are located in, but if not in California, go th the local Toyota dealer and get a can of Toyota EFI Cleaner. The best stuff I have ever used. It comes in a STEEL can as it will eat through a plastic bottle in about 10 seconds! Add it to 1/2 tank of fuel and drive to empty tank ASAP. Smog Nazis will no longer let it be sold in California.