Polo cam belt - again!

[mike6265]

My daughter has a 4 year old Polo 1.4SE (57 Reg). I think the cam belt needs to be changed as the car is 4 years old. However, I understand recent(?) VW models only need to be changed if "they show signs of wear". Local VW agents are vague as is the service book. Does anyone have clear guidance on this please?

[Crasher]

Four years for diesel, five years for petrol but the engine code will help us.

[mike6265]

Yes. The engine is petrol (1.4) so 5 years seems reasonable.
Thanks for the help (daughter and car not here at present so engine number to follow)

[DOILY]

I'm confused as the official VW Service Schedule booklet that came with my 2005 1.4 TDI (engine code BNM) states 120000km for mine, and inspect at 90000km and change at 180000km for petrol. Belt changes are not mentioned in the section about jobs that must be done according to time intervals.

[Crasher]

In addition to this VAG have now added every 4 years for a diesel or 5 years for a petrol so basicaly it is whichever comes first.

[DOILY]

Ignoring the fact that my engine code is not covered by the list reproduced by Crasher, is it not correct that, in the absence of written advice from VW, the 4 and 5 years must understandedly come from the owners desire for peace of mind rather than VW's technical expertise. I'll be changing mine soon, after only 65000km.

[Crasher]

The 4/5 year rule IS now official VAG policy and I have seen many belts fail before the mileage limit but past the age limit.