Advised by trusty local mechanic 'probably time for timing belt replacement' - Skoda dealership say "no longer time advice for replacement - though I'd probably replace it."

Had from new (March 2016) serviced regularly and driving great.

Is this a case of - it's an engine lifetime teflon coated belt so leave it alone and don't replace it?

Please give any thoughts and advice - they'd be would be most welcome.

Chris

Best get it done IMO. How much is your local doing it for? Does he / she have the locking tools for a 1.4 TSI ACT? Cam belt and tensioner kit. .............Advice from VW / Skoda did change 2023 when many were not going to Dealers and paying from £850-£1,200 to have cam belts changed at 5 years / 50,000 miles on 1.5 TSI ACT,s. Dealers did not want to do it on trade in,s that were not Serviced to the Manufacturers Guidelines in the UK. Rest of world guidlines were not as ridiculous.

Edited 9 March9 Mar by Evolution13

Thank you Evolution13 - that's helpful and appreciated

I've had one of these for 4 years now in SEL spec. Great car and intend to keep for another 4 at least.

I had mine done last year when it was 7yrs old and on 51k.

No brainer decision for myself as I'm looking to retain.