Timing chain renewal interval

I am the second owner of a 2010 Skoda Octavia 1.2 estate with engine code CBZB. The service book shows no record of a timing chain renewal, but as the mileage is 144,000, I feel a change is required. The Haynes manual does not specify when a replacement is due.

There is no recommended interval for the timing chain renewal. Unlike a timing belt, the chain should last without maintenance being required. However, there was a workshop campaign with reference to the 1.2 TSI engine; this was carried out after a customer complained of timing chain rattle. The campaign involved fitting a new chain and tensioner and, once completed, the vehicle had a campaign sticker marked ‘15D9 and date’ attached to the spare wheel holder, close to the identification sticker.

If the engine is running smoothly and there’s no sign of a timing chain rattle, I would not be concerned. If you can hear a rattle, I would replace the timing chain and tensioner as a precautionary measure.