Quote:
Originally Posted by Dorset Bob
Shelf life, service life and a warranty period are three separate things.
Shelf life is 8 years.
Service life is 6 years or 90,000 miles, whichever comes soonest.
Warranty is 2 years and 60,000 miles, whichever comes soonest.
That doesn't give 18-20 years.
Therefore, the manufacturer of the belts, and the manufacturer's maintenance schedule, does not agree with the above claim.  |
I think you will find that the in-service life of most belts is around 10+ years.
The MGR recommended replacement interval for the belt kit is 6 years, which is not the same as its likely service life. The car manufacturer has to be conservative in setting the service schedule.
Just to be clear - I am not suggesting that belts should not be changed for 20 years. It is statistically possible that a belt may only last one year. Equally, one may last 20 years. Each person has to decide their approach to risk. I used to have the belts on my V6 Omega changed religiously every 6 years. The current kit has been on 7 years but it will not be replaced. If the worst should happen the car will just get towed to the nearest scrappy as it is now 22 years old and I am intending to retire it at 23.