had the timing belt water pump etc changed out at 89k .people that I bought the car from are in their 90's and do not drive anymore and didn't drive the car much since new so mileage is correct ,they had a few service records to verify mileage ...the mechanic was more concerned about the age of the belt than mileage even though all parts looked new and were factory..my question is a belt being 20 years old is a bad thing ? the belt looked new and no cracks /splits ..I guess being that old it was a good thing to change it out and being close to the recommended mileage to change belts /water pump..peace of mind I would say

 

yes you did it correct, rubber belts deteriorate by use and time, same as tires. can look new but if over years, can blow when tires hit higher temps and speeds. rubber also cracks with age, can be seen on side walls and face of tires. also anit freeze, oil,gas, if all have lots of time sitting will deteriorate. i have had all the above experience on cars, even head lights go bad, (had a 57 210 model, 7 yesrs sitting 3 years rebuild, first night drive both headlights failed, one at a time within 1 hr of driving.)