I recently had my 5th year service(60K service) and have been told by fiat that my timing belt needs changing although I have done less than 12K miles. They're asking about £225 for the job. It's a 2000 W-reg 1.2 8v. I've had trouble with my my Fiat garage before so don't trust them at all. Is it quite likely that the timing belt might need changing at such a low mileage?

Also there's a slight clinking sound when put into reverse. Just when the the gearstick is actually placed in reverse, no noise when driving. Any ideas as to what this could be. Fiat are asking for £600+ just to check it out....

Thanks for any help.

Hi

It is recomended that the belt is changed at 5 years regardless of mileage,or at 60k if it arrives first.

Whilst I'll agree with your garage that replacing the timing belt at this time is a good move , the price quoted seems a little steep. I bought my Genuine new belt and tensioner pulley off e-bay for circa £25 . I think that if you don't mind doing a little bit of DIY yourself you can save a lot of cash, the £225 quoted will be mostly labour and VAT !

You car is the same as mine, the engines are safe if the belt snaps or is incorrectly fitted. Whilst the Punto isn't he easiest or most straight forward belt i've ever changed it is certainly not too difficult either, easily doable at a lazy pace on a nice summer afternoon....

Whilst i think it best to buy a genuine Fiat part if you do decide to buy a cheaper alternative from a motor factors try to get a belt made by 'Gates' as they are top quality OEM belt manufacturers for all the major Car manufacturers.

Thanks guys(or girls)