1st t-belt service (free) on V8's ?

[finnerty]

Could someone detail for me the scoop on the factory provided timing belt services for the V8's? I've heard that the first belt replacement was offered free of charge and that subsequent tension checks were also free.

What are the details and restrictions?
What model years were covered?
Is it still in effect / being honored by the Dealerships?
Does it matter if the car has changed owners (i.e., is it only valid for the original owner)?

Thanks

[ifly]

Finnerty,

My information which I will be taking advantage of in January is the following.

The belt and labor is covered by Lotus for the 1st belt change, the tensioners and idlers are not and based upon various conversations are in the $700 to $800 range. The dealership is recommending I change the water pump at the same time but I don't have a price from them yet. The change should be done very 4 years or I believe 36K Miles (from Lotus dealer) although I have heard 24K miles.

The tension is checked for free every year up to the 8 year mark on the V8's.

I believe all the V8's were covered for the 1st belt due to federal requirements on cambelt life. Lotus in Atlanta will be able to verify whether the vehicle has had its 1st belt change already.

Its is still being honored by dealers although some may deny this until you get a letter from Lotus as I did.

Does not matter if the car changed owners, I am the third on my 04 and its still covered.

Hope that helps.

[finnerty]

Indeed it does! Thank you