It is important that you change the timing belt (also called a cambelt) in time on your Volkswagen Transporter. On this page you will find more information about the timing belt replacement intervals on a Volkswagen Transporter.
I have collected information about various popular diesel engines and petrol engines from the year 1991 until today.
You will also find information about which engines in Volkswagen Transporter that have a timing chain instead of a timing belt.
Table of Contents
When should the timing belt be changed on a Volkswagen Transporter?
The timing belt replacement intervals are different depending on what model year and engine you have in your Volkswagen Transporter.
Further down on this page you will find information about the intervals for different years and engines.
Also keep in mind that some motors have a timing chain. These usually do not need to be replaced.
If you hear a rattling sound from a motor with a timing chain, it may be a sign that the chain needs to be replaced.
Consult a mechanic if you hear a strange engine noise, especially if it is a rattling sound.
Volkswagen Transporter Timing Belt Replacement Intervals
Below are some examples of different timing belt replacement intervals. Keep in mind that both years and mileage are important to keep track of.
Even if your car has not traveled many miles, a timing belt still needs to be replaced. The material in the timing belts gets worse with age even if you do not use your car very often.
If you do not find your year model or engine, you can often find the information in your instruction manual or by calling a workshop.
Here you will find information on timing belt replacement for other Volkswagen models.
Volkswagen Transporter 1991 – 1995
Here you will find intervals for the Volkswagen Transporter between the years 1991 and 1995.
| Model | Horsepower | Kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 T4 1991 – 1995 | 84 hp | 30 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.5 T4 1991 – 1995 | 110 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.5 Syncro T4 1991 – 1995 | 110 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 1.9 D T4 1991 – 1995 | 60 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 1.9 TD T4 1991 – 1995 | 68 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.4 D T4 1991 – 1995 | 78 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.4 D syncro T4 1991 – 1995 | 78 hp | ? |
Volkswagen Transporter 1996 – 2003
Here you will find intervals for the Volkswagen Transporter between the years 1996 and 2003.
| Model | Horsepower | Kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 T4 1996 – 2003 | 84 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.5 T4 1996 – 2003 | 110 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.5 Syncro T4 1996 – 2003 | 110 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.5 T4 1996 – 2003 | 115 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.5 Syncro T4 1996 – 2003 | 115 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.8 VR6 T4 1996 – 2003 | 140 hp | Timing chain |
| Volkswagen Transporter 1.9 TD T4 1996 – 2003 | 68 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.4 D T4 1996 – 2003 | 78 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.5 TDI T4 1996 – 2003 | 88 hp | 120 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.5 TDI T4 1996 – 2003 | 102 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.5 TDI Syncro T4 1996 – 2003 | 102 hp | ? |
Volkswagen Transporter 2003 – 2009
Here you will find intervals for the Volkswagen Transporter between the years 2003 and 2009.
| Model | Horsepower | Kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 T5 2003 – 2009 | 115 hp | 180 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 3.2 V6 T5 2003 – 2009 | 235 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 1.9 TDI T5 2003 – 2009 | 84 hp | 120 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 1.9 TDI T5 2003 – 2009 | 86 hp | 90 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 1.9 TDI T5 2003 – 2009 | 102 hp | 120 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 1.9 TDI T5 2003 – 2009 | 105 hp | 90 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.5 TDI T5 2003 – 2009 | 131 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.5 TDI 4Motion T5 2003 – 2009 | 131 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.5 TDI T5 2003 – 2009 | 174 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.5 TDI 4Motion T5 2003 – 2009 | 174 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 CNG T5 2003 – 2009 | 115 hp | ? |
Volkswagen Transporter 2010 – 2015
Here you will find intervals for the Volkswagen Transporter between the years 2010 and 2015.
| Model | Horsepower | Kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 T5 2010 – 2015 | 115 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TSI T5 2010 – 2015 | 150 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI T5 2010 – 2015 | 84 hp | 210 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI T5 2010 – 2015 | 102 hp | 210 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI T5 2010 – 2015 | 140 hp | 210 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI 4Motion T5 2010 – 2015 | 140 hp | 210 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI T5 2010 – 2015 | 180 hp | 210 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI 4Motion T5 2010 – 2015 | 180 hp | 210 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 CNG T5 2010 – 2015 | 115 hp | ? |
Volkswagen Transporter 2016 – 2019
Here you will find intervals for the Volkswagen Transporter between the years 2016 and 2019.
| Model | Horsepower | Kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TSI T6 2016 – 2019 | 150 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI T6 2016 – 2019 | 102 hp | 200 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI T6 2016 – 2019 | 140 hp | 200 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI 4Motion T6 2016 – 2019 | 140 hp | 200 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI T6 2016 – 2019 | 150 hp | 210 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI 4Motion T6 2016 – 2019 | 150 hp | 200 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI T6 2016 – 2019 | 180 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI 4Motion T6 2016 – 2019 | 180 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI T6 2016 – 2019 | 199 hp | 200 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI 4Motion T6 2016 – 2019 | 199 hp | 200 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI T6 2016 – 2019 | 204 hp | 200 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI 4Motion T6 2016 – 2019 | 204 hp | 210 000 kilometres |
Volkswagen Transporter 2019 –
Here you will find intervals for the Volkswagen Transporter from the year 2019 until today.
| Model | Horsepower | Kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI T6.1 2019 – | 90 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI T6.1 2019 – | 110 hp | 200 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI T6.1 2019 – | 150 hp | 200 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI 4Motion T6.1 2019 – | 150 hp | 200 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI T6.1 2019 – | 199 hp | ? |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI 4Motion T6.1 2019 – | 199 hp | 200 000 kilometres |
| Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI SCR BlueMotion T6.1 2019 – | 204 hp | ? |
Does a Volkswagen Transporter have a timing belt?
Yes, most Volkswagen Transporter engines have timing belts.
There are some engines that have a timing chain instead of a belt, but that is not very common in Volkswagen Transporter engines.
What happens if a timing belt breaks on a Volkswagen Transporter?
If the timing belt breaks on your Volkswagen Transporter, your car will be stranded. It does not matter if the belt comes off completely, or if some teeth come loose.
You can not drive the car anywhere before you fix it. Neither home or to the nearest workshop.
A broken timing belt means that your car must be towed or taken on a car transport from the site.
FAQs
Can a timing belt last 200 000 miles? ›
It is safer to replace the timing belt even earlier than the manufacturer recommends. In general, however, timing belts needs to be replaced from 60,000 miles up to 150,000 miles.
When should I replace my timing belt on my VW Transporter? ›How often should I change my cambelt. We recommend changing your cambelt once every four years for cars registered before September 2009, and every five years for cars registered after. If you reach the recommended mileage limit before 4 or 5 years, you may need to change the cambelt sooner.
How many years should a timing belt be replaced? ›It'll usually need to be replaced more than once over the course of a vehicle's lifetime. Manufacturers will usually recommend to replace your timing belt after a set number of years or miles. This could be anywhere from 40,000 to 100,000 miles or 4+ years.
How long can a VW timing belt last? ›Many mechanics recommend replacing them every 70,000 to 100,000 miles. It's always a good idea to familiarize yourself with your Volkswagen owner's manual.
Can a timing belt last 300000 miles? ›The expected lifespan of your timing belt is specific to your car and engine configuration, usually between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. (You can check your owner's manual or look online for your car's service schedule.)
What is the longest a timing belt can last? ›Timing belt replacement is generally recommended every 60,000 to more than 100,000 miles, depending on the vehicle manufacturer.
When should I replace my timing belt on my t5? ›Every 60 000 miles or 4 years, whichever comes first
Renew the timing belt and tensioner roller.
Most VW engines have timing belt/cambelt replacement intervals between every 60,000 to 80,000 miles or 4 to 5 years [dependant on engine type].
How long will a VW Transporter engine last? ›Transporters are renowned for their long-lasting engines. Many can easily clock up 250,000 miles, with that being said, the majority of people will look for a used Transporter with less than 100k miles. This is a safe bet as long as the previous owner has taken care of it when required.
Can a timing belt last 12 years? ›Seven years is the maximum life of the timing belt recommended by most manufacturers. For example, the belt should be replaced even if the engine has only 30,000 miles but is seven years of age. More timing belts break due to age than mileage.
Should I change timing belt after 5 years? ›
Typically, timing belts should be changed every 4-5 years second usage. However, the first principle for optimum maintenance is reading your owner's manual, as every manufacturer differs. It pays to know which kind of engine you have and what are its recommended replacement intervals.
How much does it cost to change a timing belt on a VW? ›The real cost is in the labor, because a lot of parts need to be disassembled to get to the belt. Shopping around to get a few quotes is your best bet to get the best deal, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $409 to $919 (including parts and labor).
What happens if you don't change the timing belt? ›Even though it's made to last, it will wear out naturally and need to be replaced eventually, before it slips or breaks. If the timing belt breaks, the engine won't run and, in extreme cases, may result in bent or broken valves and damage to the cylinder head or other nearby components.
Are there warning signs before a timing belt breaks? ›You need to look out for signs and symptoms of a weakening timing belt so that you can take action before it is too late. These include loud clicking sounds coming from your engine, squealing sounds, and your engine failing to start at all.
Can a timing belt destroy an engine? ›A broken timing belt can cause severe engine damage that could cost you thousands to repair. To avoid this from ever happening, have the timing belt changed at the mileage milestone recommended in your owner's manual.
How long can a worn timing belt last? ›This is where all of the discrepancy of maintenance and replacement occurs. Depending on what schedule you may read, including information distributed by the manufacturers themselves, the average life span of a timing belt is between 60,000 and 105,000 miles or after 7 to 10 years regardless of mileage.
Should I change timing belt at 100000 miles? ›Since the timing belt has such an important job, it's crucial to have it replaced regularly. In most cases, there is no indication that a timing belt is becoming worn. Often times, it just breaks. That's why most manufacturers recommend you have your vehicle's timing belt replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles.
How long does it take a mechanic to do a timing belt? ›Replacing the timing belt is an expensive service. It is an intricate, labor-intensive process that can take 4–8 hours, depending on the vehicle. But replacing the timing belt before it breaks will prevent engine damage and save you money in the long run.
How long can you drive without changing timing belt? ›Your owner's manual is a good resource and will recommend the mileage interval recommended for your specific vehicle make and model.” The recommended replacement according to mileage ranges from 60,000 miles to 150,000 miles. If your vehicle is 6 to 10 years old, it is recommended to replace the timing belt.
What are the service intervals for a VW Transporter? ›Most Volkswagens have fixed servicing at 9,300 miles or 12 months. Your car is ready for flexible servicing when service indicator light comes on.
What are the most common problems with a used Volkswagen Transporter van? ›
If you hear a clunk when you lift the clutch and pull away, the problem could be the drive shaft. It's usually caused by rust, which eventually causes the shaft to fail. The problem is more common after the van has done a considerable amount of mileage. Failure of drive-shaft splines are also not uncommon.
How do you check a timing belt? ›Look for any contaminants that could eat away at the belt or cause it to slip. Also, look for cracks in the belt. If the belt has many cracks in it, this can indicate that the belt is old or has dried out. Next, inspect the underside of the belt and verify that all the teeth are in good condition.
How long do TDI timing belts last? ›The most recent recommend timing belt replacement interval for VW 2.0L TDI models is 80,000 miles.
Which VW Transporter engine is best? ›The most reliable T5 engines
The 1.9 came with 85 or 105bhp and can be remapped to create a pokier, livelier performer. You can also chip a 2.5 but they came with 130bhp or 174bhp and with the option of all-wheel drive – VW's 4Motion set-up.
The VW Jetta has been a popular choice for many years for many reasons, including the Volkswagen Jetta average mileage it can last. The VW Jetta mileage life expectancy is typically well over 100,000 miles and in many cases, in excess of 200,000 miles.
What is the best VW T6 Transporter engine? ›Top of the tree is the 204bhp BiTDi with 7-speed DSG. Basically, do your homework so you know precisely what engine you're getting when buying second hand. A quick peep at VW's 2022 T6.
How do you keep a timing belt from failing? ›Misalignment is one of the main causes of timing belt drive failure. Excessive or uneven tooth wear, belt tracking and tensile failure can all be attributed to misalignment. By checking and aligning your shafts and timing pulleys you can increase the life of your timing belts and save yourself lots of downtime.
Should I lubricate my timing belt? ›Though timing belts don't need lubrication, you can lubricate a timing chain. This keeps the rotational system of the crankshaft and camshaft(s) running smoothly. DIY Car Service Parts stocks a wide range of lubricants so that you can maintain your car's health.
Will my car run better with a new timing belt? ›Increased horsepower is something that many people enjoy, and there is no doubt that you'll be able to experience that when you replace your car's timing belt. Believe it or not, changing out your car's timing belt can help with fuel economy. Great combustion is what you're looking for when you travel.
Can a timing belt last 30 years? ›Seven years is the maximum life of the timing belt recommended by most manufacturers. For example, the belt should be replaced even if the engine has only 30,000 miles but is seven years of age. More timing belts break due to age than mileage.
What happens if you don't replace timing belt? ›
Even though it's made to last, it will wear out naturally and need to be replaced eventually, before it slips or breaks. If the timing belt breaks, the engine won't run and, in extreme cases, may result in bent or broken valves and damage to the cylinder head or other nearby components.
How can I extend the life of my timing belt? ›Extremes of hot and cold can cause the rubber to develop minor cracks in the outer surface of the belt. This can cause the timing belt to need replacing faster. Keeping your car in a garage rather than outside can help to reduce the extent of the changes of temperature to which your timing belt is subjected.
How long is a timing belt guaranteed for? ›Vehicle manufacturers will tend to specify when the belt should be replaced. This ranges from 60,000 miles or six years, to 10 years or 150,000 miles. Where can I get a timing belt replaced?
What spoils timing belt? ›Misalignment is one of the main causes of timing belt drive failure. Excessive or uneven tooth wear, belt tracking and tensile failure can all be attributed to misalignment. By checking and aligning your shafts and timing pulleys you can increase the life of your timing belts and save yourself lots of downtime.
Is there any warning before timing belt breaks? ›You need to look out for signs and symptoms of a weakening timing belt so that you can take action before it is too late. These include loud clicking sounds coming from your engine, squealing sounds, and your engine failing to start at all.
How much does it cost to replace a timing belt on a Volkswagen? ›Shopping around to get a few quotes is your best bet to get the best deal, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $409 to $919 (including parts and labor).
Do timing belts break without warning? ›Often times, timing belts break without warning. Once it happens, the engine immediately has problems. Your engine will stop running right after the timing belt snaps while driving. With an interference engine, extensive damage can occur right away.
Do I need to replace water pump with timing belt? ›We strongly believe that, to preserve long-term system performance, timing belt-driven water pumps should always be replaced at the same time as the timing belt. So, our kits with water pumps provide you with a complete repair solution, featuring not only pulleys and tensioners, but also our long-lasting water pump.