Replace cambelt even with little mileage?

[Jim Rey]

@JOG - I'm in the 'All In' warranty period but will still go to the independent if his price is competitive with VW. I've not spoken to the one that I have in mind yet (STC Services Nailsworth) but I've been told that he uses all VW parts and can access the 'VW service IT system' (or whatever it's called) to log any work that he does. The guy that owns the other place that's in the running (360 Automotive) told me himself that they do the same. My gut is telling me that I'm not that keen on VW Tewkesbury after our last encounter and the next nearest VW is 50 odd miles away. The two independents mentioned are just down the road in comparison! I'll obvs report back idc.

That's good info Ayjay. I have VW specialist indie garage about 5 miles away from me and they will be cheaper than the VW dealership, I'm sure. Nearer the time, I'll call them and ask their advice. They also have access to the VW portal and can record, as approved VW specialists, any work done on my van

 

[JOG]

@JOG - I'm in the 'All In' warranty period but will still go to the independent if his price is competitive with VW. I've not spoken to the one that I have in mind yet (STC Services Nailsworth) but I've been told that he uses all VW parts and can access the 'VW service IT system' (or whatever it's called) to log any work that he does. The guy that owns the other place that's in the running (360 Automotive) told me himself that they do the same. My gut is telling me that I'm not that keen on VW Tewkesbury after our last encounter and the next nearest VW is 50 odd miles away. The two independents mentioned are just down the road in comparison! I'll obvs report back idc.

Just a bit too far for me (an hour and twenty) but if more independents did this the stealers would have to sharpen up

 

[Jim Rey]

Called a VW specialist near me. Business owner (engineer) said he would not think the cam belt change necessary at just 13,000 miles. Also told me although he would do a main service for me and he would not replace all of the filters..just the fuel and oil filters. He said also he would drain and refresh the brake fluid system. He said he would be cheaper than the main dealer and he has access to the VW portal to record the service carried out.

 

[Mud Digger]

@Jim Rey there has been a lot of discussion on this subject having mine replaced @ 19000 miles but its done.
the Auxilary belt changed also at the same time £25.00 plus vat. i'm good for another 4 years.
having your van over serviced surely is not a bad thing long term might save your camshafts too it just dents the wallet a bit... but not a waste of money.
VW might be recommending belt change as service intervals get extended, and we add the water pump while its stripped down.

but its all we can do to look after investments the best we can ... but like everything that comes at a price though .

These vans would normally be run by companies as Vans paying the bills its us the public using them as campers
there might be bigger shock bills to come yet with the diesel / electric thing looming

but for now piece of mind and reliability to get us to the camp sites is priority..