I’ve read a few threads on this on here and am now confused.

Recently bought a Fabia vRS – 2003 53 46k full Skoda service history. No mention of a cambelt having been changed I’ve read on here that it should be done at 40k / 4 years and costs a packet. Cost aside, I’ve checked out my service history paperwork and on the reverse of the Skoda service ticksheets, it does state that Fabias from 8/03 with the 1.9 diesel engines are to have their cambelts changed at 80k. No mention of age on there at all.

So where does the 40k / 4 years come from. Is this just a best practice? Have there been premature failures so 40k is now seen as a “best” time to change? Have to admit I haven’t spoken to my local dealer yet.

Comments / help / advise anyone? Thanks in anticipation …

Read the thread below. Yours needs changing asap if it hasn't been changed already.

http://briskoda.net/forums/ask-tech/timing-belt-change-interval/56532/

OK, thx for that, makes sense. WIll spk to my Skoda dealer next week to clarify their view (Robert Eardley, who I gather has quite a good reputation from what I've read on here.

Shame I didn't think of getting it done as part of the purchase - damn !!

I have a 53 plate Fabis vRS, Cambelt & Water Pump changed at 60K back in January as recomended by the dealer.

They did both at the same time as the water pump has to be removed to get the belt changed, was advised tha SUK recommend that the water pump IS done then to save time.

I hope you are sitting down as this and the 60K service came to just over £500 OUCH, but better safe than sorry.