W reg (2000) 1.8SE T Estate petrol timing belt change

[Jammy93]

Hi,

Sorry for this silly question, but is a cam belt and a timing belt the same thing?

My Passat is apparently due a "Cam Belt and tensioner" change at 80k miles which is coming up. Do I also need to change the timing belt??

[calum]

Yes , they are same thing.You can get the original parts kit much cheaper than from the dealer from www.murraysdirect.co.uk .Some people change the thermostat and water pump while the car is apart as they are in the same vicinity in the engine bay,it's preventative maitainence ,it's ultimately up to you though.cheers Calum

[Jammy93]

Thanks Calum!

[Eshrules]

just a bit of info..... although previously reccomended interval WAS 80k, it has now changed, 60k or every 4 years, whichever comes first. as mentioned above, for the sake of £40/50 max for a new water pump, id get that done while the belt is off, you have to take the belt off to replace the pump and the plastic 'blades' of the pump are renowned for breaking etc etc. be careful about attempting this job yourself, its not an amateur job as you need all the correct cam locking tools etc. for the full job including water pump, you should expect to pay around 200/300 quid.