When should my timing belt / chain be replaced to avoid valvetrain damage?
Valvetrain maintenance is a very serious issue on MK3’s. • 2.0L SOHC I4 [ ABA ] – These timing belts are made from kevlar and over time wear out like a serpentine V-belt. Check the belt often and look for cracks or kevlar power for signs of excessive wear. It’s recommended to change it every 60K miles, especially since it’s a belt. • 2.8L DOHC VR6 [ AAA ] – The VR6 motors utilizes multiple timing chains that run both of the camshafts from the crankshaft spockets. Wear is not easy to determine on a steel chain, but streching does occur and excessive upper chain noise is a common indicator of age. Chains are due about 90K – 110K miles depending on valvetrain noise and previous maintenance records.
