Cambelt change 1.4Petrol

[AndyDP]

Hi all

Does anyone know the definitive cambelt change schedule on the 1.4 petrol?

I asked my local Audi dealer in Chester and they were uncertain to start with!

They advised that on all Audi 04 models on it's 75,000 miles or 5 years, but mine is an 03 and that according to Audi is due at 60,000 for an inspection then every 20,000 thereafter.

The car is 5 years old and has only covered 25,000 miles, so should I wait till it reaches 60,000 (which will take another 3 years by that time the car will be 8 years old!) or get it done at the next scheduled service in 7 months time for piece of mind.

Incidentally, Audi were asking £423 to change

Any advice would be appreciated
Cheers
Andy

1.4 Petrol Sport, open sky, 6 disc autochanger Azure Blue

 

[humps]

according to word of mouth cambelt should be changed at 4yr old regardless of milage. I did mine when it was ~40k miles. I also changed the water pump.

My friend who is an real 'engine' engineer said the cambelt will be fine far after 4-5yr old or whatever milage but with old and used rubber, it may slack and affect the timing of everything being driven. You may experience less mpg or other things start acting a little less optimal.

So I would change it if I were you, just for the peace of mind.

BTW, your dealer's price seems good if that's all parts, labour and VAT inclusive. I was quoted by a dealer it is 5hr labour + parts, which is closer to £900. I got mine changed at a VAG indy speacialist for roughly what you have been quoted.

 

[AndyDP]

Ok, cheers for that, the Audi quoted price was "all - in" so I think I will get it done for piece of mind.
Interesting that your engineer friend says that a worn / slacke belt can reduce the mpg as according to DIS my mpg typically averages 41, I do in fairness, short trips, but would have expected a bit better!