I am looking to buy a vrs petrol from around 2007-2011 due to my budget. Which are chain and which are cambelt please? I’ve seen reports of chains breaking but I’ve seen models for sale claiming ‘new cambelt’ fitted. Left me very confused! 
  If someone could explain that’d be great! 

Hi Scott, 

 

The facelift models have been fitted with chain timing. I believe facelift came in 2009 and yes first production models have been known for timing chain failure so if you find advert claiming timing chain was done I would want see invoice or any other proof. The engine code CCZA. Pre face model will be fitted with BWA engine which are timing belt. 

 

I hope it helps. 

 

 

 

Edited 4 November, 20205 yr by Nosnx

There are lots of threads on this. Pre facelift MkII up to 2009 had common issues with ABS module, Air con compressors, wheel hub corrosion of ABS sensors. They use a bit of oil. Mine used about a litre every 2-3K miles and every winter for 6 years mayo cream, caused by condensation formed due to shortish journeys, appeared in the oil filler cap. Dealers/handbook stated cambelt  change and every 4 years. The  2009 Facelift models had a slightly different dash and fascia and a TSI engine which has had a lot of problems reported of cam chain tensioner failure, leading to slipped timing and subsequent expensive rebuilds. There is a link on this site on this subject. I would hope that any car you see/test will have these faults repaired by now. If no receipts particularly for cam chain tensioner I would walk away unless a possible tensioner replacement bill of approx £500+ was factored into the price. Ensure the dash has no traction control or ABS lights showing and insist on running the air con to feel the change in temperature and listen for the air con compressor sounding noisy/rough. Rear tyres can sawtooth thus noisy like a wheel bearing worn out.  Sounds bad but in reality they are solid and enjoyable with smooth engines able to take stage1 mapping and economy if 35-40+ on motorways. I hope you get a good one. 

Also waterpump housing may start leaking from 80-100k miles so best to factor that in aswell c£500 - £700 depending on mechanic.