Hi,

I recently bought a 2013 V70 with 137000 miles. The seller said that the timing belt had been replaced, but he didn't have the documentation from the mechanic and the carfax doesn't show a timing belt done.
Now I know that the seller lied to me on a number of different things so I wouldn't be surprised if he did about the timing belt too. On the other hand 137k miles and 15 years is a long time and I would think that the belt would have given up already if it was still the original one.

Yesterday I took the cover off and I can still read the printing on the belt. I guess it means that the belt is relatively new, but I'm no expert on this and I wanted to ask your opinion. How many miles do you think this belt has done?

Any help is appreciated!!!

Jerry

 

Not sure if Conti is OEM, I'd suspect the original belt would show genuine volvo markings but you can ask around. Also many mechanics will put paint dots on the vvt gears to help verify timing.

 

I agree with "VOLVO" markings being on an original belt.
Given the dullness of the wording and the reflection of the belt's pattern evidenced in the white section I'd say your belt has been in service a while.
I'd bet the first owner racked up miles fast and that the belt was changed 7 or 8 years ago.
What's missing from your belt is the characteristic crazing of the smooth side. Ergo, it ain't THAT old.

The thing you need to look at closely are "the rollers" (idler and tensioner pulleys).
These are the things which lose their lube, seize up and trash the belt.

In other words, the original owner may have racked up 105,000 miles real fast and someone merely installed a good quality belt without changing the pulleys.
Continental is a good brand.

Given that the guy is a proven liar and a thorough inspection amounts to doing half the job, I'd suggest "doing it right this time" by catching up FOR CERTAIN.

I know it's easy to spend other people's money but for minimal outlay you can allay your fears.

Also, FYI: Carfax is a real joke. Most times repairs and maintenance are not listed in Carfax reports.
Dealerships will send such data to Carfax because it'll help them sell a car. Most small shops won't bother.
Carfax is a racket. Their commercials have trained people to say "Show me the Carfax" so dealerships find it easier to just spit out 3 to 7 sheets of paper to hand to a customer. Read that as "shut them up".