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What is the timing belt and DSG oil change interval on my VW?

I have a 71 Volkswagen T-Roc convertible with the 1.5 engine. There is so much confusion on this with timing belt change intervals of life/140,000 miles and different answers from different VW dealers. Is the safest approach to change the belt on my engine at 5 years or 70,000 miles and should you change the water pump as well?

Also I believe this car has the DQ200 gearbox which has been troublesome in the past. Do this require a gearbox fluid change and if so at what mileage - again I’ve seen 40,000 quoted and also that it’s sealed for life and can’t be done.

Asked on 21 September 2023 by Tony Szczepanek

Answered by David Ross
Volkswagen recently changed the recommended cambelt service interval for this engine to 140,000 miles, but that does not necessarily mean you need to wait until this interval to change the cambelt. Previously the advice was five years or 60,000 miles, so you may wish to have the belt changed at this interval. Ultimately it is a personal choice depending on how long you plan to keep the car and how much you are willing to invest in keeping it in the best possible condition.

DQ200 DSG transmissions do not require an oil change, and as your car is a later model it will already be using the better quality mineral oil which reduces the chances of future problems.
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