1.2 PureTech wet belt replacement in Stafford

Yes, the petrol 1.2 PureTech (and the 1.0 PureTech) uses a timing belt that runs in the engine oil. Versions badged Hybrid (Hybrid 100, 110, 136 or 145) use a newer engine with a timing chain. Because plain PureTech and Hybrid versions were sold side by side, we check by registration.

The revised interval is 100,000 km (about 62,000 miles) or 6 years, whichever comes first, down from the original 10 years or 175,000 km. The belt width should also be checked with a gauge at every service. If your handbook shows a longer figure, it is out of date.

The belt usually breaks down rather than snapping. Particles clog the oil pump strainer and can block the variable valve timing solenoids, causing low oil pressure, warning lights and, if ignored, serious engine damage. On some cars belt debris has also affected the brake vacuum pump.

There have been DVSA recalls on some 2013 to 2017 Peugeot, Citroën and DS models with this engine because material from the timing belt could affect the brake vacuum pump, for example recall R/2020/326 for Peugeot. The remedy is a software update, inspection and, if needed, a new vacuum pump and timing belt. Check your car on GOV.UK's vehicle recall checker.

Stellantis extended cover on earlier 1.0 and 1.2 PureTech engines for premature timing belt degradation and excessive oil consumption to up to 10 years or 112,000 miles, parts and labour, under certain conditions such as following the maintenance plan. Diagnosis and repair go through the authorised Peugeot, Citroën, DS or Vauxhall network, so check with a dealer before paying for an independent repair.

Vauxhall models with the Stellantis 1.2 petrol engine, which Vauxhall usually badges 1.2 or 1.2 Turbo rather than PureTech, have a wet belt. They include the Corsa, Astra, Mokka, Crossland, Grandland and Combo Life. Older Vauxhall 1.2 engines and Hybrid versions are different, so we check by registration.

Wet belt replacement at AGR Performance starts from £800 + VAT (£960 including VAT). The exact price depends on the engine and on the condition of the oil pick-up, oil pump and vacuum pump once the sump is off. Call Alex on 07368 358943 with your registration for a quote.

AGR Performance. Wet belt replacement at our Stafford workshop starts from £800 + VAT (£960 including VAT), with clear quotes before any work starts. Call Alex on 07368 358943 with your registration for an exact price.

Use oil that meets the approval in your handbook, change it on time, and change it at least once a year if the car does short trips or low mileage, because fuel dilution of the oil is what harms the belt. Ask for the belt width check at each service and replace the belt at the revised interval.