Should we change the timing belt on our seven-year-old Vauxhall Vectra?

My wife drives a 2005 Vauxhall Vectra 1.9 diesel and has done less than 26,000 miles. Should we have the timing belt changed at the next service?

Also, I noticed you saying not to buy four-year-old or older diesel cars. What’s the problem with them?

Asked on 21 July 2012 by DS, Aberdeen

Answered by Honest John

Yes, change the belt.

Typical problems with diesels at age three to six years include: the diesel particulate filter (DPF) needs replacing at £800 - £1500, the dual mass flywheel and clutch need replacing at £1000 - £1500, the turbo and turbo oil feed pipes need replacing at £1500, the EGR needs replacing at £600 and, where fitted, the timing belt needs replacing at £500.

Tags: diesel engines diesels timing belt

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