Volkswagen Repair: Timing Belt, vw jetta, timing belt

Question
2001 VW Jetta, 56,000 miles,

When should the timing belt be replaced and how much should it cost? Thanks!

Answer
Laurie,

If you have a automatic transmission, it is due for a change now, for standard transmissions 96,000 km.  A long life timing belt is available and will last twice as long.

with a new waterpump your looking between $700 - $1,000 US, depending on labour rates.

Good luck,

Paul