Could you tell me how often the timing belt on a VW Golf 1.6 TDI should be replaced?

When your Volkswagen Golf is equipped with the 1.6-liter TDI engine, it is recommended to replace the timing belt every 80,000 miles. However, depending on your driving habits, you may need to replace it sooner. The timing belt is an important component made of rubber with teeth that interact with the camshaft and crankshaft sprockets to keep them synchronized. If the belt becomes loose, it can affect the timing, causing the intake and exhaust valves to not open and close properly. This can lead to expensive engine damage if the belt breaks. Therefore, it's advisable to have the timing belt inspected regularly before reaching the 80,000-mile mark. Replacing the timing belt in a VW Golf is a complex and labor-intensive procedure, with an average cost ranging from $700 to $870, including labor costs of around $370 to $470.