This debate will run and run - because VAG UK have (possibly deliberately) made the position unclear. My own interpretation of this is that they are not trading in the best interests of their customers, but each will have to make his mind up...

My advice is as follows - and is purely an opinion. Firstly, read carefully the printed sevice book provided with the vehicle. Ignore any scrappy bits of paper stuck in, or sourced from the dealer. Take the printed belt change recommendations as an absolute maximum.

If you are stisfied with what you find (in the case of my own VAG diesel it was an 80k mile change interval with no stipulated time limit), run a check on Google on an international basis (the American sites are the best, as their customers are more confrontational and investgative) and check that your particular engine has no undue record of premature failure. Note that engines are specific to markets.

As someone who has worked in diesel engine testing and who owns a VAG 1.9 PD engine, my own recommendation is as follows: Change the belt every 70k miles or 7 years whichever occurs first. Use only an OE or Contitech belt. Change all idlers/tensioner and the water pump without fail. Consider fitting a pattern pump with a metal impeller.

The correct fitting procedure is vital for this engine - any dabs of white paint would suggest that the correct locking tools have not been used and the procedure not understood. These engines are completely intolerant of poor or sloppy maintenance and a badly executed belt change will probably place the engine at greater risk than would have been the case if you had left it alone.

Use a good knowledgeable Independent.

659.