Volkswagen Polo IV (2002-2005) - 2004 1.4 Burning rubber smell from engine

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Sun 30 Nov 2008 22:44
2004 1.4 Burning rubber smell from engine - ChickPea71
My car had a full service and MOT a few weeks ago, I don't drive it often and last week after 5 mins there came a very strong burning rubber smell from the engine, which remained for the entire 25 min journey.

When opening the bonnet I noticed the smell was coming from the side where the timing (CAM) belt lies. The garage where I serviced it recommended that I have the timing belt replaced as it's VW recommendation to change it every 4 years, even though I have done very few miles, the belt looked old.

Car details: VW Polo Twist 1.4, manual (2004), mileage: 8,000 miles.

I don't get a sharp screech on starting up the engine, so possibly not the fan belt. Could this smell come from the timing belt not being fitted properly or is there often a settling down period for these items?

Edited by Dynamic Dave on 01/12/2008 at 00:46

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Sun 30 Nov 2008 23:39
2004 1.4 Burning rubber smell from engine - Screwloose

So they replaced the belt before the smell? Did they do the tesioners and water pump too?

Any idea of the engine code? Lots of different ones used.
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