Should I change my Octavia's belt early?

Hi,

I asked a question previously re changing a timing belt on a 2018 Skoda Octavia TSI. Came back as 240,000km, as the belts for that make are long-life. The Skoda dealer is now saying my belt needs changing as it's five years old, even though there is only 80,000km on the clock. Is it best to just go with it and change it or should I wait? Nothing in the user manual about changing.

Ger O Mahony (Limerick)

Jun 2023 Filed under: servicing

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Expert answer

Hi Ger,

There's no harm in changing a belt early, other than additional cost. It could well be that the dealers have been given more up to date information. If in any doubt, call up a different dealer and ask about the schedule for your car. 

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Advisor
@Shane_O_D