timing belts

[Meallbhan]

I was in VW  today collecting my car after a service and MOT and they asked me when my timing belt was last done. It was done just over 2 years ago.

They told me that VW had changed its recommendation for my car, a 2005 GTI, for the timing belt to be done every 4 years regardless of mileage. For everything including the waterpump it would be £499, which isn't too bad but I don't need it yet.

Is this right, does the GTI need this or is it a VW ploy for more cash?

[V2 FAN]

My neighbour took his Ed30 in for a service, owned from new with 34000 miles as it is now 7 years old and somewhat behind schedule.
VW chased him out the door and said not to come back till 120000 miles !!!!!!???????

Sounds slightly conflicting as his belt is 7 years old !

I've had mine done for peace of mind but obviously there's some confusion/contradiction to this he even phoned VW UK to check or so he tells me 

[skard]

My car is just over 7 years old and had it's second belt kit put on last month, every four years is what I go off

[OSB]

Timing belt every 4 years is the VW recommendation. Water pumps are know to go and it is comparatively simple to change at the same time as the belt, so it might as well be done at the same time.
£499 all in is not a bad price from VW - would be cheaper from an indy.
But face it - £499 is cheap compared to a wrecked engine should an old belt let go!