Timing belt replacement: VW Polo3 1.6 (AJV)

🧭 Before you start

Note the radio code, support the engine and remove the air filter housing, ancillary belt and crankshaft pulley. Remove the lower timing cover, set TDC for cylinder 1, lock the camshaft and check the marks. Remove the belts, then fit the new timing belt and set the tensioner by pushing the pulley against the belt and turning it clockwise with the base plate engaged. Tighten the tensioner, remove the camshaft locking tool, refit the crankshaft pulley and engine mount, and turn the engine in its normal direction to recheck the marks.

Fits: VW Jetta VI (16, 2010–2018); platform codes GTI, (1.6

• Timing position: the crankshaft or camshaft is set and locked during this job
• Special tools named: locking tool

Don't miss

• Check the audio security code before disconnecting the battery.
• The cut-out in the tensioner base plate must engage over the securing bolt.
• Avoid bending, twisting or pulling the new belt.
• Never turn the engine opposite to its normal direction of rotation.
• Remove the camshaft locking tool before turning the engine to check the marks.

Written for this job from the workshop steps below · TorqFix editorial.

🔧 Engine codes this applies to

📋 Procedure

Preparation and removal

1. Before disconnecting the battery cable, check the audio system security code
2. Never turn the engine in the direction opposite to that of normal operation
3. Engine support tool:
4. Remove the air filter housing and hoses
5. Turn the crankshaft to TDC for cylinder 1

6. Remove the ancillary drive belt
7. Crankshaft pulley
8. Remove the timing belt lower cover
9. Check the timing marks
10. Remove the timing belt
11. Remove the second timing belt

Installation and checks

12. Fit the timing belt
13. Stage 1:
14. Note: Avoid bending, torsion or traction
15. Push the tensioner pulley against the timing belt
16. Tighten the tensioner
17. Remove the camshaft locking tool
18. Guide pulley:
19. Idler pulley:
20. Note: The cut-out in the base plate must engage over the securing bolt
21. Refit the crankshaft pulley
22. Turn the tensioner clockwise
23. Refit the engine mount

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