Looking at buying a 2010 Passat TDI with overdue timing belt - bad idea?

[khaotic]

Hey everyone,

I am currently looking at a 2010 VW Passat CC 2.0TDI. It has ~150,000km on the Odometer, and from the looks of the logbook it hasn't had its timing belt replaced yet, which means it's around 45,000km overdue. It has been regularly serviced (around every 10,000km) and has had the DSG recently serviced. I know that as soon as it does snap, that's basically an entire engine rebuild, but if I buy it and replace the timing belt basically straight away am I in the clear or is it still a bad idea? I've been able to talk it down to a very good price, but I don't know if I should just completely avoid because of the overdue belt. Would love some helpful advice!

Thanks!

[Bora Sport]

The belt is fine and has no detrimental effect on anything until it breaks and then it is usually a disaster. Buy the car if you like it and the price is right, change the belt, which when the job is done correctly includes replacing the tensioners and the water pump and all should be good. I think you should be able to get it done at a reputable mechanic for around $1,000 including parts. A fair bit more expensive at the dealer though.