My Octavia SE TSI 1.4 MkII, engine number CAXABxxxxxx has 101446 miles on the clock. I cannot tell from the service history if the timing belt has been renewed and need to decide if I should do so proactively.

I note that the renewal kit costs between €240-€670 (depending on aftermarket or Genuine) <https://www.skoda-parts.com/spare-part/03c198229c-timing-set-1-4tsi-90kw-92kw-engineteam-44402.html> for the parts without the labour. Looking at YouTube channels it looks like there is a fair bit of work to do to fit the new kit, so I am expecting £1000 minimum costs.

 

In that context, my questions:

1. What is the recommended service interval?
2. How/Can one assess the amount of wear / remaining life on the current belt/chain?
3. What happens if the belt/chain breaks, apart from being stuck on the side of the road? Do the valves get bent? Does the head need to be skimmed? 

 

If the engine type is EA111 then this page gives some details <https://www.motorreviewer.com/engine.php?engine_id=6> but I'm not sure this is the CAXA engine.

Quote

The camshafts are driven by a roller timing chain designed for entire engine life. But in reality, this chain will stretch out somewhere after 60k miles - long before the engine lifespan ends. This version also equipped with continuous adjusting variable intake valve timing system.

 

If this is true then the current belt may be stretched outalready - but how would I know for sure?

 

If anyone can shed some light, i'd be grateful.

 

Regards,

Jeremy

 

 

5 hours ago, wildcard_jed said:

If this is true then the current belt may be stretched outalready - but how would I know for sure?

 

Use VCDS. See here ... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1e9imH68urw

 

From the youtubers comments.

- Green zone: newly installed chains and low-mileage cars 0 to -2 deg.

- Yellow zone: -2 to -4 deg. Some sources suggest to be alert even if the value is below -3 deg. and monitor the value almost as often as check your oil level

- Red zone: -4 deg and less. Be ready to replace the chain. Some people complain about chain noise at these levels, some say it is quiet. Cars are driven with the value from -4 to -6 deg, but this is a lottery.

 

Edited 29 October, 20241 yr by tetley
typo