Cambelt

[8vgti]

I know this issue has come up before but....I am doing about 20-24k a year in my 8v GTI and in march it is due its service and it will have done about 45k since last cambelt change (done on 75k). Is it worth getting it done as the mileage I tend to do does correspond with the same time each year and so if I dont get it done in march it will then be nearer 65k (since cambelt changed first time) next service. Unfortunately I have yet to find a decent garage near to where I live and so I travel 45 miles to a garage near to where I used to live.  

[golfvr6]

I would get the belt done sooner rather than later. Make sure whoever does it uses genuine parts, i would change the tensioner too. Where abouts are you?

[8vgti]

Found the earlier post on this issue so dont worry.... will probably get it done. golfVR6 in an earlier post you say that you always change the belt on 40k and the tensioner at 60k. What would you suggest come March time and my motor will have done 40-45k since having belt and tensioner done? As I do 20-25k a year I dont really want the expense later on to just have to change the tensioner. cheers

[8vgti]

We must both have been replying at the same time!! I live in Cheltenham, but use a garage in Hereford, where I have been going for years. Must admit I had the belt changed at Richard Hulin motors in Gloucester and they seemed ok, but it is always a gamble going somewhere new for the first time. Swift in Hereford are ideal and I can take the car there and not have to worry about getting shafted....only problem is fitting the service in around work.

[golfvr6]

I would get the belt and tensioner done. Its not big bucks, and if you are doing a lot of miles then at least you will have peace of mind.

[8vgti]

Cheers for that 'vr6...will do for peace of mind. Last time I had it done it was about ?110 so worth it for the potential damage if I dont!!

[Grovit]

?110 - that sounds a good deal to me - I currently have an Accord Type R (which is going to be up for sale very shortly) - looked into having belt and tensioners changed and was going to set me back around ?450 !!

[8vgti]

?110 - that sounds a good deal to me - I currently have an Accord Type R (which is going to be up for sale very shortly) - looked into having belt and tensioners changed and was going to set me back around ?450 !!

I didnt get it done at the dealers though it was an independant place in Gloucester. I think it was about ?3-400 at VW though.

[Grovit]

8vgti - What did it cost you in the end ........?

[8vgti]

Grovit,

The motor doesnt need a service until March so I will get it done then.....but I am expecting it to cost about ?120 for the belt and tensioner, and then standard servicing cost..........and MOT!!! I didnt plan that very well did I?!!

Will let you know