You're kidding me!!!!

I may not even need to replace it? Just get a shorter belt? Unbelievable!
The thing has a list replacement price of $1010! Luckily my friend has some "other channels" (used to be a mechanic) that got me one for $400 (minus core charge). Virginia requires emmissions so it probably is in my best interest to get it anyhow, but I also wouldn't mind saving $400 and get my car back on the road rather than waiting for the part to come in. Any additional insight would be appreciated.