Timing belt info

[icingdeath88]

So, err, someone asked me a question via PM and I don't really like answering questions without others able to correct me, so I'm going to post it here instead.

how often i have to change the timing belt?
how can i check if it's new-ish or not?
also can i change it myself?

Every 60,000 miles, give or take. If you're not sure when it was last changed, I personally would go ahead and change it.
Change the water pump, thermostat, and the gasket for each at the same time, as well as the cam seals, crank seal. It's kind if a pain to change the belt, so might as well do everything while you're in there. Optional, but recommended. Also check out the two accessory belts and the radiator hoses since you're taking them off anyway.

That big black plastic thing at the front of the engine behind the big pulley? That's the timing belt cover. Either of the two side pieces can be removed to look at the belt.

It's not that bad to do it yourself, but it's not the easiest thing in the world. Depends on your level of experience. I've found it's easiest to do it with the radiator out of the car, and you gotta empty the coolant when you do the water pump anyway. The hardest part is getting the crank pulley bolt off.

Anything anyone else would add?