when is it recommended to change the timing belt on a 2002 golf tdi

I think the manual says 100,000 miles but I've heard conflicting reports that you should get it done at 80,000. While I tend to favor 100,000 mile , keep in mind that your belt is now over 10 years old (as are the related components, if you've never gotten it changed)... nothing lasts forever, and I'd think about changing it sooner rather than later...Belt itself may look fine.......it's the bearings in the tensioner, waterpump and rollers that you need to watch out for. Belt isn't usually the initial fail component. Some go longer than 100,000K but then your just driving on borrowed time. Hope this helps.

Generally on VW it's 105,000 the earlier TDI,s were at 80k,even earlier wanted them every 40 k which is ridiculous.

Get the timing belt checked now and changed ASAP. While driving my 2003 VW golf diesel on Highway, the belt broke and I now face major engine repair cost for bent rod’s. We spoke to the VW technician today and he recommends frequent change of this belts since consequence is so serious. For me, is it worth $4000 repair on a 2003 VW? Gunther VW replaced fuel pump injectors two years ago without replacing belts, it seems this is the result. Also replace belt if you replace water pump.