So everywhere I look people talk about the 1.8 timing belt and to do it right when you buy a used B5. Can't seem to find a decent answer on the V6 though. Is it something you should also do asap? or is it like a normal car and shouldn't really be an issue. Thanks

 

the timing belt has to be done on mostly all cars (some have chains which dont have to be replaced) and it can cause some serious damage on all cars when it snaps. the timing belt is as much important on the 1.8 as it is on the 2.8!

 

^^^what he said.

 

Ok, let me put it another way, how long does the 2.8 timing belt last? Is it something that should be done every 60-80k like the 1.8? or more like 120-180 like other cars?

 

I have never heard of a timing belt service interval that long. The longest I've seen is for some Hondas at 90k. I've never seen anyone recommend going 120-180k on a hydraulic tensioner - it's asking for trouble. To your point, I've seen recommended intervals anywhere from 60-80k for the 2.8, but it's not terribly hard or expensive to do yourself, so do it closer to 60k than 80k. Not worth risking your engine.

 

hmm i have never heard of any car that had the recommendation of changing the timing belt at 120-180k miles. 60-80k thats where its at for all cars..

 

Just do it! I had a v6 passat and waited. Bad idea. Snapped at 90,000 while off and sitting in the driveway (warm day, cold night). I came out in the morning and cranked the engine not knowing. Bye bye engine. It was a sad day. Also, the v6 engine is not as common as the 1.8t, and if you need it rebuilt, it will cost you much more.

 

These threads always make me wicked nervous.

2.8, 180k, original tb.

 

^^uh wow, i remember when my dad neglected the t-belt and it finally snapped at the beginning fo the summer, im very surprised i was able to tear it apart and get the head rebuilt and everything put back together for about $600, when i get back home from college more likely during the summer a t-belt the first thing on my 2 do list, this will be me cars 3rd timing belt at 200k, so about 100k, on each belt

 

Nick just do it!! Think of how disappointing it'll be if something happens, unless you get an avant...