Have a '98 w/2.4L; is it a timing belt or chain?

Car is getting close to 90,000 miles if it's a belt, when should it be changed? Can anyone give me a rough idea on the cost plus labor to replace it. Where would be the best place to have it done? Dealer, don't have a private mechanic, should I look for one rather then going to a dealer. Also should anything else be replaced while all that stuff is off the engine? Thanks

I have a 98, don't know the engine size without seeing the car.

It has a belt. Replaced by private mechanic. Mine was over 100k, mechanic told me water pump is in the same area as the timing belt and also that if it failed it would destroy my new belt, so he recommended replacing both timing belt and water pump at the same time.

60 thousand mile is recomanded to be replaced, 90 thousand is requiered

I would recommend that you have it changed as soon as possible. The other post is correct, you always change the water pump when you have the belt cover off. I try to locate an honest local garage to do the work, since dealerships will crush you with their labor rates. You could stop by a dealer and get an estimate so you have a number to compare to, when you are out price shopping. I would also recommend replacing the power steering belt right away since it is right there and only costs a couple bucks. Good Luck!

60 thousand mile is recomanded to be replaced, 90 thousand is requiered

That is a good rule of thumb for timing belt replacement, but the factory maintenance schedules recommend changing the timing belt at 105,000 miles.

The 2.4L does also have a chain as well. This motor has balance shafts in it turned by a chain. During timing belt replacement I would recommend at the very least to have the chain, drive and driven sprockets and chain guides inspected.

i have the 98/2.4L and ran it out of gas, then when trying to restart it ( i put gas in it :] ) it broke the timing belt somehow. that was right at 90k too.