TEK

Many thanks for your several inputs. I should have added that the previously mentioned cambelt failure in an Octavia occurred at 27K! hence my concern, I understand the logic of some of the replies and will now wait and see what transpires after the components being "inspected" at the approaching service. They say lightning doen't ever strike twice, but it did for me,,,,,,on the first occasion at over 70 mph on the outside lane of the M6 with an almighty bang! [All credits to AA Relay who took we two and the car back 200 + miles to Ayrshire, and the car then on to the Skoda dealer]. Incidentally, the Motoring Correspondent of the (Glasgow) Herald on 27/08/2010 in a specific article referring to Skoda cars, warned about the potential damage of such a failure and, advised owners of the importance of getting their cambelt changed at regular intervals.

At 34K miles after drop in coolant level, Skoda dealer found leak in water(coolant) pump, with coolant having contaminated timing belt. Pump and belt renewed under warranty. Having also had a cambelt fail en route, on previous Octavia, I am seriously considering having cambelt renewed at next , and approaching service at 54K. Has anyone any ideas on the expected cost for this renewal/.fitting at good local garage (not dealer)?

Has any Skoda owner good/bad experiences of Marks & Spencer Car Insurance? Its quotations on GoCompare et al is significantly cheaper than other quotations.