I just had my cam belt and water pump changed at 100,000 km at a place called "Endeavour Automotive Servicing and Repairs" in Wairau Rd, Glenfield, Auckland.

Top job. Spoke to a guy there called Steve Gooch (who happens to be the owner) who was very courteous and seemed to know his stuff. I was thoroughly impressed by the quality and service, and indeed the final bill, which I thought was very reasonable. I even got a free courtesy car to use whilst it was being done.

Steve doesn't know this, but the only reason he got the job was because he was recommended to me by father. Several months ago, my father had a problem with his old corolla diesel and by chance stopped in at Endeavour motors to see if he could get some advice. Steve spent a long time trying to work the problem through, even though it was quite obvious that on that particular day he couldn't do the job himself, and therefore he wasn't going to make a buck out of it. Bottom line was that he was friendly, knowledgable, and went out of his way to help.

Breakdown of costs:

Cam belt: $61.75
Water pump: $128.57
Coolant: $20.50
Bearing: $28.11
Labour 4 hrs @$60/hr = $240.00

Total cost: $478.93 + GST = $538.80

I wouldn't hesitate to go back there again if I need anything else done. And before you ask, no I have no pecuniary interest in the company.

Endeavour Motors,
115 Wairau Rd,
Glenfield,
Auckland.

Ph: (09) 444-9430

www.endeavourmotors.co.nz

Another thing, Steve offered an opinion on the clutch rattle / squeak noise that tends to happen on the 6MTs when the clutch is engaged. This has just started happening on mine. Perhaps one of the finger-like projections on the clutch plate has warped (maybe with heat) and become proud thereby rubbing on the release bearing as it spins around. Just a theory. Solution is to change the clutch: $400 plus $400 labour = $800 - not something necessary to spend that much on right now.