Punto (Mk2/2b) Newbie to Forum

[Clanger]

I have a 2004 1.4 Fiat Punto, which has very low mileage of less than 20,000. I have had the cam belt replaced, in 2009, 2011 and 2013 by the same dealership - this seems very excessive for a low mileage car. Is this normal to have the cam belt replaced every two years? Can someone advise how often should the cam belt be replaced, frequency, mileage etc. I feel I have been overcharged? Should I complain to Fiat UK?

Any help/advice would be appreciated - thank you

 

[disgusted]

Does seem excessive. I don't have a car with that particular engine, so I can't reaaly comment...

 

[Brendan W]

Could they have been changing the auxiliary or fanbelt as they are still called in some parts. How much were they charging? Every 20000 miles would be ultra cautious for timing belts let alone four belts in 20K

 

[s and b]

maybe you do a lot of stop start driving rather than a lot of miles?
this would put extra strain on the belt just like bump starting would so maybe your garage is going on the caution route so you cant turn round when belt goes and engine goes pop
seen it wi me own eyes customers always blame garage apparently its the law (walks off laughing...........................................)
remember these are dreadful little engines

 

[fingers99]

2 years does sound OTT.

But surely, if 1.4, you're in the wrong section?

 

[s and b]

2 years does sound OTT.

But surely, if 1.4, you're in the wrong section?

why?
ive had an 04 sporting 1.4
it was a disaster but ive had one
still got the ecu too
somewhere

 

[Clanger]

Could they have been changing the auxiliary or fanbelt as they are still called in some parts. How much were they charging? Every 20000 miles would be ultra cautious for timing belts let alone four belts in 20K

They have charged me £300 each time for the cam belt, I have reviwed all my invoices and it clearly documented as a cam belt replacement not an anx or timing belt I just thought having it replaced every two years is very excessive, for a low mileage car.

 

[Brendan W]

They have charged me £300 each time for the cam belt, I have reviwed all my invoices and it clearly documented as a cam belt replacement not an anx or timing belt I just thought having it replaced every two years is very excessive, for a low mileage car.

They may have a good reason although it sounds ott without knowing the specifics. Rather than let this stew into sour relations with them I would walk in tell them you're concerned cause you mates are slagging you saying every two years is crazy.
It may be they know that motor all too well and are trying to avoid problems. If you're still unhappy you can always shop around.