I bought my car used w/87,000 miles on it and haven't a clue if the belt was changed. I know it's an interferance engine and it has 147,000 on it now. What I want to know is if there is a way to know if the belt is bad or needs work, etc. I definately don't want to trash my engine with this thing!

I'm sorry but I think you should change it right now. I think if you don't know/have proof of when it was done, it may never have been done at all.

Change it now and give yourself the piece of mind. You do plan on keeping the car for another 100K miles/5 years right?


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1998 V70 AWD Turbo 180k+

Usually, there is a sticker on the computer box or timing belt cover. But sometimes they fall off because they are applied over dirt and oil.

If you bought the car locally, call the local Volvo dealers and see if it was ever serviced there. They will ask for the last 6 digits of the VIN.

1999 was the 1st year of the 105K belt interval change. Most owners had the belt changed at around 80K, not knowing better.

In your case, wear on the belt might be seen. Cracks show up on older belts.
In any case, if the belt was changed at 80K, the new one would be good for 185K max, along with a new tensioner. It is highly unlikely that the belt and tensioner are original to the car, most tensioners built in 1999 would have failed before now.

Klaus
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Volvoless. Sold the R. There is now a void...

Thanks Klaus, you are very dependeble w/info, I appreciate the help! After looking at the belt, there are no cracks and it looks to be in good shape, but I thought I would ask. Thanks again!

Next time you are close to a dealer, ask a mechanic - not a service advisor. That way, if I am wrong, you won't take me to small claims court.

I do estimate you have another 20K on the tensioner and rollers. Start saving money for parts and when you have enough set aside, replace them for your own sanity.

Klaus
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Volvoless. Sold the R. There is now a void...

Klaus, I can assure you, small claims won't be clogged up by this drivel. I appreciate the advice just the same!