2000 Jetta 2.0 ..... T/Belt?

[pada]

Hello everyone,

My son has a 2000 Jetta with the 2.0 non-Turbo engine. VW recommends the T/Belt be changed at 90k, but the dealer is quoting over $500 to do it.

What would be a realistic expectation to pay at a quality independent shop?

Also, can anyone tell me for a certainty if this is an "Interference" engine or not?

Finally, has anyone attempted a DIY T/Belt replacement on this motor? Tell me your stories ...

Thanks!
Paul (pada)
San Diego

[veedubmechanic]

2.0 is very simple to change t-belt on. hardest part is removing the engine mount.

would really reccomend replacement of the water pump as they are a very common problem and its almost sure the new belt and tensioner will cause the w-pump to fail and you will be looking at a 2500.00 cylinder head replacement.

yes all vw engines are interfearance accept the 98 and older 2.0

[pada]

Cool ... Thanx veedubmechanic!

I've done a couple of other T/Belts in the past and the infamous Head Bolt Campaign on my old 325i ... So a non-pro like myself who's halfway handy with a set of wrenches should be OK to do it with a decent manual in hand ... ? No special tools?

Paul (pada)

[veedubmechanic]

no special tools on 2.0
just make sure the timing marks are aligned up and you replace the w-pump and tensioner and you should be ok.

[pada]

Great advice, thank you! ... I'll let you know how it turns out