When to check my Skoda Octavia's timing belt?

Hi,

I've just bought a 2014 Skoda Octavia 1.4 TSI Elegance petrol. Car has only completed 24,000km. No indication whether a timing belt has previously been changed. Car runs perfectly. Can you advise when I should start think about checks /changing the belt please?

Thanks

Mike Savva (London)

Jan 2025 Filed under: servicing

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Expert answer

Hi Mike,

That engine has one of Volkswagen Group's so-called 'long life' timing belts that don't actually come with any set replacement schedule. That's very low mileage but even so there's no harm asking your mechanic to take the 'top cover' off each time the car is serviced to check the condition of the belt itself.

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Advisor
@Shane_O_D