Just_Steve
Thinks s/he gets paid by the post
Remember the 3.5 million engine recall fiasco of Toyota several years ago. Sludged up engines and countless failures. And the bad Honda transmissions where Honda would not recall them and only extended the warranty a few more miles. I could go on and on.
Actually, a periodic timing belt change is a good thing as the mechanic can assess the water pump and camshaft seal area for leaks or pending issues. SIL has a Mercedes and his camshaft chain guides failed last year to the tune of $4000.
On most cars with chains the water pump is no longer hidden like with belts, at least on my 04 and 10 Toyotas they're not. I will check the Subaru next time I'm under the hood