Timing belt

[McNoodle]

Any idea when this should be looked at or changed on a 2.0 20V petrol VW Bora - the dealers gave me a 'courtesy call' saying they should be changed after 4 years, which mine is coming up to.
They didn't even ask me the mileage though, which is only 34k which makes me think they've had some problems with cars of a similar age or they're touting tor business..?

[tel b]

Your service schedule should give you some idea. Mileage is only part of the equation; they can and do deteriorate with age.

However, the cost (and possible consequences) of having one fail on you compared with the cost of getting it changed makes it a no-brainer really. Have it changed and also ask them if the tensioners should be changed too (I suspect they should, but I've no experience with this engine).

[Speedy]

Also consider geting it done at a good make specific independant (ie non franchised) garage.
It'll be cheaper and you'll often receive a better service. Franchised dealesr tend to suck money from your wallet faster than a Dyson. (I was going to say Sebo but Dysons are more common)

[McNoodle]

I went to a reputable, independant (non VW) garage to ask advice, and they looked up the car on their service schedule 'software' which said there was no set time to have it changed, but to check it at 60k and then every 20k after...

[Big Bri]

you should just change it at 60.000 miles its not worth the risk. its not a bad job to do �60.00 labour +parts

[MORELLO]

That's what I'm intending to do, if not around 50k. I've just had a snotty e.mail from VW saying it's 4 years or 60k, whichever comes first.
I've never changed a cam belt at 34k...

[MORELLO]

...would there be any symptoms of one that actually required attention..?

[tel b]

No, they can go with no warning whatsoever.

Quite dramatic if you're doing 70 down the motorway!!