Skoda Kodiaq belt handover issue

I had a similar issue with my Kodiaq. It sounds like your belt tensioner is the most likely culprit. When did you last replace your timing belt and idler pulley? Has the engine performance degraded recently, or has fuel consumption increased?

The timing belt was replaced about 80000 km ago. Engine performance seems normal. However, the belt drive area does sound a bit louder than usual. Could a worn idler pulley also contribute to the problem, or is it definitely the belt tensioner?

Given the mileage since the last timing belt service and the louder noise from the belt drive, I'd still lean towards the belt tensioner being the primary issue. A failing idler pulley can make noise, but it typically doesn't directly affect the belt-handover. My experience suggests that if the tensioner is not maintaining correct tension, it can cause exactly the issue you are describing. I would advise that you bring it to a competent workshop as soon as possible, if the timing belt jumps, it may cause considerable engine damage.

Thank you for your input. I took it to the workshop, and indeed, the belt tensioner was the culprit. The belt-handover was not working due to the defective tensioner. The total repair cost was 455€.