Volkswagen Golf TSI DSG - need changing cambelt

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Tue 17 Nov 2015 18:25
Volkswagen Golf TSI DSG - need changing cambelt - Chris2303

My vw golf (automatic TSI 1.6) is 5 years old with only 18000 miles on the clock. I took my car for annual servicing and was told that I need to change the cambelt in the car?! Is this really necessary? I have only done 18000miles.

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Tue 17 Nov 2015 18:42
Volkswagen Golf TSI DSG - need changing cambelt - medview

Hi

There is no 1.6 TSI, only a 1.6FSI. The 1.6FSI has a timing chain, and not a belt.

There has been timing chain problems and this might be your issue.

Joe

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Tue 17 Nov 2015 18:43
Volkswagen Golf TSI DSG - need changing cambelt - RobJP

Yes. It is time OR mileage dependent, whichever comes first.

Of course, you could ignore it. But if it fails, it's a complete new engine. You roll the dice ...

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Tue 17 Nov 2015 19:23
Volkswagen Golf TSI DSG - need changing cambelt - Wackyracer

I would check what the correct interval is, The dealership told me I needed to change the timing belt at 3 years but, When I checked the manufacturers recommendation it was 10 years or 80,000miles.

If I remember correctly, timing belts on VW's didn't have a fixed age. They used to say check at 4 years and then every x amount of years.

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Thu 19 Nov 2015 12:50
Volkswagen Golf TSI DSG - need changing cambelt - John F

Is this really necessary?

Probably not.

There is a known problem with 'stretching' (i.e. undue wear at all the little chain hinges). If the engine management light isn't on, it probably hasn't stretched much and if the tensioner is still doing its work it is unlikely to jump a tooth. With the right oil (v important for chains - I never trust a garage to oil my engines) and the protection of your auto box against too sudden rev changes you should be OK for ages yet, unless it sounds really rattly.

Some garages will try anything for some extra work ' just in case - you don't want a ruined engine, squire..'

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Thu 19 Nov 2015 13:26
Volkswagen Golf TSI DSG - need changing cambelt - slkfanboy

>Some garages will try anything for some extra work ' just in case - you don't want a ruined engine, squire..'

Or then again there have been issues with unexpected belt failure which is very hard to spot without removing the belt. So IMHO after 5yrs it's worth changing the belt.

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