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Is a cam belt change necessary?
I own a 2015 Audi A3 e-tron plug in hybrid, and find it brilliant in every way. It was our main car but 18 months ago I passed it on to my wife, who only does short, local journeys. These are short enough for battery only. The engine is only occasionally started, and given a short run. Her annual milage is under 2000. It has always been run on Shell super unleaded.
Audi have advised me to have a cam belt change, costing £900. I think the way the car is used cannot justify that sort of expense, and would like to just keep it for another few years and use in the manner I describe above. Is this foolish or sensible?
Audi have advised me to have a cam belt change, costing £900. I think the way the car is used cannot justify that sort of expense, and would like to just keep it for another few years and use in the manner I describe above. Is this foolish or sensible?
Asked on 9 June 2020 by Malcolm S
Answered by
Dan Powell
The Audi dealer is right, the timing belt needs to be changed every five years or 60,000 miles (whichever comes first). The rubber compound in the belt degrades over time and the pulleys become worn. The belt itself can also become slack. It's very unwise to leave it. If the belt snaps or becomes loose, it'll wreck the engine.
If cost is a concern, use an independent Audi specialist. The quality of the work will be the same as the dealer, but you'll save at least at third on the costs. You should be able to find one with our God Garage Guide: good-garage-guide.honestjohn.co.uk
If cost is a concern, use an independent Audi specialist. The quality of the work will be the same as the dealer, but you'll save at least at third on the costs. You should be able to find one with our God Garage Guide: good-garage-guide.honestjohn.co.uk
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