new tdi owner

Start by finding the owner's manual. It will list when you need to change that belt and yes you really really want to do it on time, (change the tensioner and water pump at the same time. likely it is about 60,000-100,000 miles. It depends on the model and year.

Make sure you do all the other maintenance exactly as it is listed in the book including using only oil that meets the specifications in the book. Do rely on even a dealer to get that oil right.

You would likely enjoy stopping at

"Do rely on even a dealer.." Yes that was intended to be "Don't rely on even a dealer" I have a cast on my are and I am doing one finger typing for at least the next 48 hours.

Thanks for catching that one.