I've an '02 Fabia 1.4 16v Automatic. It's been in the back of my garage unused for 18 months, except for starting it every few months. It's only done 8500 very gentle miles but its now 6 years old.

What do folk think about changing the belt on so low a mileage car but which is now over the recc'd 4 year change interval.

Last time I started it everything was fine but I'd appreciate any advice about bringing it back into service.

Change it. Simple as.

The cambelt deteriorates with age as well as mileage, hence the new 4 year rule.

Thanks guys, will replace it.

Its a pitty its done only 8500miles since 2002.

But yes, they recomend every 4 years.

I ran my 1.4 golf without doing the belt.

Hadnt been done since new. Pretty low miles though.

Tentioner collapsed then i decided to get the finger out!

HA!