Cambelt and coolant

[willm1]

hi everyone
new to motoring and have got myself a golf (2001, 1.4S), which ive had for abour 3 mounths now. Just 2 things worrying me slightly over it.

Firstly, a mechanic i know gave it a look over when I bought it, and said all was ok, and nothing needed doing. I have noticed that the coolant in the bottle is a copper brown colour, and has a small amount of froth on top when ive driven it. The red coolant light also comes one whenever I start driving. After consulting the owners manual, it doesn't look like the coolant has been changed in a while. However, the mechanic assures me that the coolant is alright, and the light is a common problem to be ignored. Should I change the coolant? And does this have anything to do with the light?

Secondly, I have also been advised that the cambelt needs changing. It is 8 years old and done 35,000 miles, and it hasn't been changed before. Am I likely to need a change? Because I really could do without having to fork out for this, as well as the new exhaust that it needs.

Really would be grateful for any help anyone could give on this, thanks.

[zollaf]

the coolant should be a red/pinky colour. the cambelt really should be changed as well due to the age of it. obviously your mechanic is busy enough to not want to do your car. hes pretty lucky in a recession. i suggest you find someone good and get it done soon.

[paulst955]

Hi, If a cambelt breaks on a 2001 car it would cost more to fix than the car is worth so get it changed if it breaks you will cry. Cheers Paul