I has not happened to me, but it has happened. It has even happened that it has broken before the recommended replacement schedule. However nearly all the reports I have seen have been from owners who ignored the warnings and put off replacing it. What happened with yours?
Why on Earth would VW build a non-freerunning diesel engine with a timing
> belt? When they skip or break your engine is toast.
>
> VW, build a good solid design turbo diesel and I will buy one. Lot's of
> others will too, given the diesel's outstanding city mpg, but not at the
> risk of losing a $5000 engine for a $20 belt if it gets loose or > separates.
>