See more from Ask Carzone
Can you see a Volvo's timing belt?
I'm looking at buying a 2013 V40 D2 Cross Country SE lux. 77 k miles on the clock. The dealership says there is no evidence that the timing belt has been replaced, but they will get the mechanics to have a look and see what kind of condition the belt is in. Is this sufficient? Can you see the timing belt on these engines without starting to take it apart? It looks well hidden down in the depths, to me. Please let me know your thoughts. I should say that otherwise this car is local, and is exactly the spec and price I am wanting. Thanks.
Our answer:
Hi Susan,
It should take a good mechanic no longer than half an hour to remove one of the plastic covers over the timing belt enough to inspect the condition of the belt. That would usually be sufficient to tell how new the belt was, too. Whether you can trust someone else to do that for you is another matter. I'd be inclined to get an independent mechanic to check it.
Have a motoring question? Ask us here!
Ask us anything motoring related and please provide as much information as possible so we can give you the most accurate advice.