Re:How often do you need a cam belt service?

Recently bought an MG TF (2003 In X Power Grey). 54k on the clock. No obvious overheating issues etc (no white gunk in the oil). The HG / Cam Belt was done in 2013 (@ 41k miles) and the alternator in 2019. Should I be looking at getting the Cam belt redone? Thanks, #newbie

Its actually well overdue, for safety change it now as a matter of urgency, 5 years I believe is the max timespan regardless of mileage.

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If you consider the mileage it’s done on the current belt you could be throwing a perfectly good bit of kit away. If you look at the age of the belt & you’re into the car for the long run Steve is spot on. Get it & the associated gubins changed now & you have a reference point for the future.

:welcome2:

Many thanks, have spoken to a reputable specialist to get this sorted. On another note, once a HG has been done, does it ever need redoing?

It would be good to know what the reputable specialist is quoting for cam belt change. Mgfntfbitz have a kit of the belt, tensioner & water pump for £ 60 at present. The locking tools are commonly available.

There's no telling if the gasket will outlast the car or not, my guess would be not, but you can do certain things to mitigate against failure & the first is: if your car hasn't a low coolant warning, fit one with a degree of urgency!