MG(F) 1.8i Vvc Timing Belt Change

Question

Just bought a (v reg) second hand MG(F) 1.8i Vvc thats done 31500 miles. What mileage should I consider changing the timing belt and is it expensive? I can't find any 'official' guidance? Thanks.....

Answer 1

1999 on (chassis No RD522573 on) 60,000 miles or 4 years, whichever occurs first

Up to 1999 (Up to chassis No RD522572) 60,000 miles or 5 years.

If you want, I have the complete technical info on replacement & tensioning. I can post it if it's of use to you.

Answer 2

Sir,

    Is there a fresh invoice for changing the timing belt with the car?  If there isn't, then just change the belt IMMEDIATELY!  Mileage is not the issue, it is rubber, which perishes with age.  Better to find a specialist in your area who works on these cars, who can do this with his eyes shut, that a regular garage who don't know the tricks of access on this mid-engined car.  My brother-in-law bought a 25,000 mile Lotus Esprit Turbo some years back, and the cam-belt failed within 20 miles of purchase!  D'oH!

    Cam belt failure is abrupt, unpredictable, and usually catastrophic.  Pistons slam into valves at obscene speeds, bending the valves or making shrapnel which is then ground around the engine, ruining it!          

    Either only drive cars fitted with cam chains, which last for decades, or change your belt, and keep changing it!  A Bosch replacement will probably have a 50,000 mile warranty on it - but regular inspections, and timely changes, are the key to not needing a new engine!