Hi Scotty!
So I drive a 2013 VW Golf TDI and I'm coming up on 120,000 miles now. I'm about to go through with the dreaded and expensive timing belt replacement service. My friend says that I should also replace the water pump as well because its in the same area as the timing belt and I may as well do that while the car is all taken apart. But my question is, is there anything else I should consider replacing while the car is all taken apart? I know that the labor is the biggest cost on this job so I'm trying to make sure I get my money's worth.
Look forward to hearing back from you soon Scotty and in the meantime I'll enjoy your Youtube videos!
-Steven
Which engine is in your golf? The 1.6? 1.5? 2.0?
the 2.0. Also it's an automatic transmission.
It’s usually sold as a timing belt kit, which should include all the related parts which need to be changed along with the timing belt.
If I’m not mistaken, along with the water pump, the belt tensioner is also part of the kit.
What does your mechanic recommend, or are you going to perform the job yourself?
I'm going to have a mechanic perform the job as I know it's super labor intensive. Just want to make sure I'm getting the most out of the labor and also want to make sure the mechanic doesn't try to pull a fast one on me.
Possible Related Parts to Timing Belt:
- Balance Shaft Belt
- Belt Tensioner
- Balance Shaft Tensioner
- Water Pump
- Water Pump Gasket
- Camshaft Seal
- Crankshaft Seal
If you're just talking parts there's a lot that could be done lol. Really depends on how the car has been driven or if there are any known failed items for your specific vehicle that could cause issues. Besides the seals and all that that have to be replaced as part of the job. Make sure actual seals and gaskets are used and not just silicone Unless the part specifically mentions just silicone... Comes up with benz's a bit, idk if vw has the same thing. Then you could also check the other belts and tensioners and idler pulley since they are within the same area as water pump. If the shop says they are fine and could last, then they probably could but if never been replaced before you might be getting some play soon. So they can go out since it will save you the labor cost.
