Timing Belt 03 TDI- change intervals?

[WhtEnt]

Hello TDI'ers.
As a newbie to this forum, I've read a whole series of comments on TB change issues and intervals. They seem to vary. We have an 03' TDI GLS (A4 engine...I believe), 1.9litre.
I wanted to know when is best to change the Timing Belt? Currently I have 105,000kms on it- approx 62,000miles . Various entries suggest this year TDI can go up to 128,000kms up to 160,000kms...although that might be pushing it. I'm not sure.
Can someone please help in this question?

Thanks. Al

 

[joetdi]

keep driving, change it at 100,000 miles. joe

 

[TDICADDGUY]

keep driving, change it at 100,000 miles. joe

100,000 miles = 160,000 kms.

Keep in mind that the specific interval is 100k miles or 5 years. 5 years has come and gone...so you might want to keep an eye on the belt in particular. Look for any cracking or other deterioration.

 

[paramedick]

One caveat on the 03 TB change.

Many of the early 2003 cars indeed have a 100K recommendation. However, VW installed a large roller that had the 80K bearing.

Short answer is listen for odd noises for those last 20K miles. If you hear any from the TB system, plan on changing it.

 

[TornadoRed]

Hello TDI'ers.
As a newbie to this forum, I've read a whole series of comments on TB change issues and intervals. They seem to vary. We have an 03' TDI GLS (A4 engine...I believe), 1.9litre.

You've got some great TDI talent in British Columbia. Try to attend one of the get-togethers (GTG) and have an expert look at and listen to your TDI, with particular attention to the timing belt area. We could tell you about certain noises that might indicate a future problem, but it would be easier if someone else teaches you in person, and if you can compare your engine to other TDI engines.

Paramedick is right, the 2003s were rated for 100k miles or 160k kilometers. But sometimes one of the roller-idlers loses its grease prematurely and you can hear the bearings chirping.

Get it inspected soon, then again at 80k miles, and 90k miles, and then schedule a complete TB change between 90k and 100k miles.... when it's convenient or when it's necessary. In the long run, doing it a little early will not change the total cost of ownership... just make sure the job is done correctly and that all the necessary parts are replaced each time.