FAQ
TL;DR: VW’s 2.0 TDI (EA288/DTTC) timing belt is factory-rated for 180 000–210 000 km or 5 years; “replace at 90 000 km after the first change” [Elektroda, piotrek gti_abf, #20273095]. Ignoring it caused a PLN 12 000 repair when teeth sheared at 220 000 km [Elektroda, carrot, post #20275751]
Why it matters: A snapped belt can wreck valves and pistons, turning a €150 kit into a €3 000+ engine rebuild.
Quick Facts
• Factory interval: 180 000–210 000 km or 5 years for EA288/DTTC engines [Elektroda, Kantylena, #20275923; VW ElsaWin 2021].
• After the first change: 90 000–100 000 km or 5 years [Elektroda, piotrek gti_abf, #20273095].
• EA288 has an extra wet belt for the oil pump—replace both together [Elektroda, carrot, post #20276004]
• Typical full kit + labour: PLN 1 400–2 100 in Poland [InterCars PL price list 2024].
• Failure example: PLN 12 000 repair after belt tooth loss at 220 000 km [Elektroda, carrot, post #20275751]
What interval does VW specify for the 2015-2023 2.0 TDI CR (EA288/DTTC)?
VW service data lists 210 000 km or 5 years, whichever comes first [VW ElsaWin 2021; Elektroda, Droppss, #21385806].
Is the first belt change different from later ones?
Yes. First change at 150 000 km, then every 90 000–100 000 km or 5 years [Elektroda, piotrek gti_abf, #20273095].
How does mixed versus highway driving affect the interval?
Mixed city-highway driving shortens the safe span to about 150 000 km, while pure highway can reach 200 000 km [Elektroda, piotrek gti_abf, #20272032].
Does the calendar limit override mileage?
Yes. Replace after 5 years even if mileage is low to avoid rubber ageing [Elektroda, Kantylena, post #20275923]
What happens if I stretch the interval?
A belt that lost teeth at 220 000 km caused PLN 12 000 engine damage—bent valves and pistons [Elektroda, carrot, post #20275751]
Do EA288 engines have two belts?
They use a main timing belt plus a smaller wet belt driving the oil pump; replace both together [Elektroda, carrot, post #20276004]
Did the earlier EA188 2.0 TDI use only one belt?
Correct. EA188 engines have a single dry timing belt only [Elektroda, man12124, post #20276669]
Which belt brands equal factory quality?
ContiTech belts supplied to VW dealerships carry the same part number and QA standard as OE items [Elektroda, pp_pablo, post #20286662]
How much does a complete timing-belt service cost?
Parts average PLN 800–1 200; labour 600–900 PLN, totalling about PLN 1 400–2 100 [InterCars PL price list 2024].
How can I confirm the correct interval for my VIN?
Call an authorised VW service; they read ElsaWin with your VIN and quote the exact figure [Elektroda, vogelek1, post #21385812]
How do I inspect a belt before the due date?
- Remove the upper plastic cover.
- Check for cracks, missing teeth or frayed edges under strong light.
- Rotate crank 360° to view the full belt section.
If any damage appears, replace immediately [Autodata 2024].
Why do mechanics advise shorter intervals than VW?
Manufacturers stretch intervals to cut warranty costs; wear on reused pulleys speeds later belt fatigue [Elektroda, sigwa18, post #20285555]
Should I change the water pump and rollers together?
Yes. Worn rollers or a leaking pump can shred a new belt early; kits include all components [Elektroda, carrot, post #20276004]
What about the wet oil-pump belt’s life?
VW lists the wet belt for replacement together with the dry belt—max 210 000 km or 5 years [VW ElsaWin 2021].