Got the 1.4 TSI belt drive engine in my Leon. When I bought my car there was confusion anongst local dealers of the various VAG brands regarding replacement intervals. VW said it was fitted for life and no replacement required. Skoda said every 120,000 miles or 5 years. Seat said every 30,000 miles or 4 years, could not believe this since it would be very expensive for high mileage users..

So I e-mailed Seat and they replied:

"The replacement schedule is

Inspect at 60,000 miles and every susequent 20,000 miles. Replace if signs of damage or wear.

But it must be replaced every 120,000 miles or 5 years regardless of any inspection."

I keep my cars approx 5 years and do under 10,000 miles a year thus I do not expect to get the belt changed.

And how easy to tell which is fitted?

If its the latest model Fabia it will have a belt. I think the last model stayed with chains to the end.

But the easy way is to look under the bonnet. The belt drive engines have a plastic belt cover at the drivers side end of the engine.

Or why not ask the dealer.

Edited by skidpan on 12/10/2015 at 15:23