Why has the Volkswagen 1.5 TSI timing belt interval changed?
I own a VW Passat GT 2018 plate with the 1.5 TSI engine, it has 28,500 miles on the clock and is in lovely condition. All services are done at that dealer and is due its 5th year service and MOT soon. I thought the cambelt change was also due on the five year anniversary.
Today I contacted my local VW service centre and apparently VW have changed there recommendation to only when the vehicle reaches 140,000 miles. I have a email from VW to confirm this, are you aware of this recommendation and what are your thoughts? And if at some stage it breaks before the recommended mileage are VW responsible?
I was thinking of replacing my car as to replace the cambelt will cost £1,175, that does not include the water pump as that is sealed for life and is not connected to the cambelt as its on the opposite side to the engine. but will probably keep it for now knowing I don't have to the expense of changing the cambelt.
Today I contacted my local VW service centre and apparently VW have changed there recommendation to only when the vehicle reaches 140,000 miles. I have a email from VW to confirm this, are you aware of this recommendation and what are your thoughts? And if at some stage it breaks before the recommended mileage are VW responsible?
I was thinking of replacing my car as to replace the cambelt will cost £1,175, that does not include the water pump as that is sealed for life and is not connected to the cambelt as its on the opposite side to the engine. but will probably keep it for now knowing I don't have to the expense of changing the cambelt.
Asked on 22 August 2023 by James Harbison
Answered by
David Ross
It is not uncommon for manufacturers to change their recommended service intervals, but for components that have a service life such as the cambelt, even if it fails within the recommended interval and you have maintained its service record there is no guarantee that the manufacturer will pay for all the repairs should it fail.
Although it is a significant expense, we would give consideration to having the timing belt replaced ahead of the recommended interval if you intend to keep the car. It is preventative maintenance and could avoid an engine failure which could cost several thousand pounds to rectify.
Although it is a significant expense, we would give consideration to having the timing belt replaced ahead of the recommended interval if you intend to keep the car. It is preventative maintenance and could avoid an engine failure which could cost several thousand pounds to rectify.
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