Audi TT & A3 Timing Belt Change Interval for 2.0T FSI

What is the recommended Audi TT A3 timing belt change interval on the 2.0T 16 valve engine? Has the in recommended Audi TT A3 timing belt interval for the 2.0T engines changed? Do we recommend that interval, or has our experience moved us to recommend a different change interval?

Audi TT and A3 Timing Belt Change Interval2.0T FSI Audi A3 TT Timing Belt Interval

The most recent recommend timing belt replacement interval for Audi models with 2.0T FSI engine is 110,000 miles.

  • 2008-2009 Audi TT change interval is 90,000 miles to 110,000 miles for 2.0T FSI 8J chassis.
  • 2006-2008 Audi A3 change interval is 90,000 miles to 110,000 miles for 2.0T FSI 8P chassis.

What does Blauparts recommend? When dealing with crucial timing belt service, err on the side of caution and change your Audi TT A3 timing belt every 90,000 miles. It is our recommendation to closely inspect all timing belt components before the recommended interval. Play it safe, changing your timing belt may seem expensive. However, choosing to exceed your timing belt service interval is risky and can lead to unknown repair costs that will far exceed typical timing belt replacement service cost.

It is also interesting to note that the 2.0T service maintenance schedule calls for a timing belt and tensioner inspection at 60,000, 80,000, and 100,00 miles. The inspection is done by visually inspecting the timing belt and physically spinning and testing the tensioners and idlers bearings for excess play.  To properly visually inspect the belt and physically spin the tensioners, the car needs to be in the timing belt service position. Considering the amount of labor just to get the car into service position, it is best to consider the cost savings and perform the complete timing belt service at the same time.

Audi Timing Belt Life ExpectancyIntended Life-Expectancy of Timing Belt Components

Various Audi TT A3 timing belt component life spans. In our own service facility, we've seen a few original timing belts last over 100,000 miles and others ready to break before 75,000 miles. In addition to mileage there are other factors that age the timing belt and related components. The following are some reasons why you see the difference in how long an Audi A3 TT timing belt and related components last: (1) un-logged engine idle times and sitting in traffic; (2) warm-up time in cold weather; (3) environmental climate factors; (4) related engine maintenance that may have been overlooked.

Keys to the long-life of your new timing belt components after timing belt replacement. Make your new parts last! You can expect your BLAU INA OEM components to last the specified 90,000-110,000 mile interval if the following important steps were taken:

1) Timing belt service was performed using BLAU INA OEM components. The same timing belt and timing belt tensioner(s) that were fitted on your Audi TT A3 from the factory, which are engineered to meet the specified change interval requirements.

2) Timing belt service was performed by an experienced competent ASE certified Audi mechanic who is familiar with your specific TT A3 engine 2.0T 16 valve engine.

3) Factory service procedures must be strictly followed. Even if installing the best parts, using improper procedures can shorten their life span. Incorrect installation or missteps during timing belt service are often done without intent and aren't noticed until further down the road. Fortunately, some common mishaps are noticed after re-assembly and during the final engine rotational timing sequences.