VOLKSWAGEN GOLF
Q I have a 2015 Volkswagen Golf 1.4 GT ACT with engine code CZEA. It has 30K miles and drives very well. I purchased this Golf nearly new and was told it had a timing chain. I have recently been told by VW (and checked myself) that it has a timing belt and they recommend that this is changed at 50k and/or 5-year intervals.
I have replaced many cambelts over the years, sometimes with timing/locking tools, sometimes without. I have a Haynes manual (6416-416) for this car, but as it covers numerous engine sizes and types it is a little bit vague in the description of how to do this task – photos changing from single-cam to twin-cam, for example.
It tells you how to lock the crankshaft in position, check the timing is correct, fit the cam locking tool then loosen the camshaft pulley bolts which requires replacing with new. Once the belt is removed the cam sprockets can then supposedly rotate freely?
VW have quoted me £500 + VAT. Is this a possible DIY task? Is there any other info on completing a cambelt change?
Do you know the locking kit number and possibly where to purchase? Ones I have seen are around £250 if they are the correct one. Also does the water pump belt need to be changed at the same time?
A You are, of course, correct that your Golf does have a timing belt. The replacement schedule shown for this by Autodata is every five years regardless o
