We bought a 2001 A4 Quat with 1.8T engine; used, had 115K at purchase (6 mos. ago) and since have replaced 2 rear wheel bearings. Still learning a lot about Audis (this is our first) but have read lots about serious damage sustained if timing-belt breaks; records for my car are not available, so how can I tell (1) if the timing-belt on this car has been changed/updated ? and (2) at what milage intervals should this rather expensive maintenance item be done?

Also read that the 1.8 engine didn't have the same timing-belt issues as other Audi engines, is this true? I don't mind doing maintenance, but with kids in college every penny counts, and I don't want to spend money on timing-belt if it's not necessary.

Thanks to all who respond!

 

You cant tell without records. 00/01's came with the updated tensioner, so thats good. If in doubt, just do it. It's cheap if you DIY. Do it every 80k.
I can't believe that post went through^!!!!

 

if you dont know when it was done, assume it wasnt. if you do it yourself (plenty of write ups on how) its about $300. its about $900 to have it done, its about $2-4000 if it breaks. either spend 300 now or gamble $4k and assume its been replaced, its up to you.

 

You can always look at the wear on the belt, but even then you wont know exactly if or when it had done. Always better to be safe than sorry. Atleast its not the 2.8 thats a fun job

 

1+ for the better safe than sorry.