Hi everyone!

I am looking to buy my first Škoda, specifically a Škoda Fabia Mk2 from 2009 with a 1.2 HTP 44kW petrol engine and 75,000 miles (120,000 km). The engine has a timing chain, and my question is:

Should I replace the timing chain if I buy it?

On various forums, some people say that it should be replaced at 75,000 miles or every 10 years, while others claim that the chain is good for the lifetime of the car as long as it's not rattling.

I also contacted some dealerships to ask about service intervals, but they wouldn’t give me any information.

Are there any owners driving this engine with 75,000+ miles without a replacement?

( I know that it is a weak engine. I don’t mind it because the price of the car is goodish )

Edited 22 March, 20251 yr by JohnTheGreat25

If the car is cheap then you should just drive it, at that mileage the camchain has plenty of life left.

We've got a 1.2 HTP in the family, its on 108K, no timing chain rattle, never been replaced to our knowledge, had it since 72K. Dunno where you heard about weak engine, but seems pretty strong to me.

Sold my Mk1 with 1.2 HTP engine with a timing chain, tensioner and guides that had done 160k without any problems. Just the normal "death rattle" on startup.

I think it depends on how well its serviced. My sons has done about the same and its an 06 plate 1.2HTP with no signs of rattle etc. Had to do a few things like brakes etc and a clutch (probably been owned by an elderly person before due to the low mileage who was slipping clutch) but I would expect these things on an older car. Did read that if the wrong oil or not changed/serviced regularly it can affect the chain. If its cheap enough then I would go for it as long as theres no obvious signs of problems. I drive an Octavia but I really like his fabia. Its pretty nippy around town and great to drive plus fairly easy to work on and mpg is pretty good plus its got a good sized boot unlike most of the other small cars these days.

Alasdair