92 cabriolet 88,000 mi need timing belt?

Hi, I'm new here--My wife has a 92 cabriolet manual trans with only 88000miles. It's had a few tune ups here and there, but I'm not exactly sure what was done for maintenance beyond repairing the major problems it went in for (broken ignition collar, major front end alignment, etc.) I'M ESPECIALLY CONCERNED THAT IT NEVER HAD THE TIMING BELT REPLACED. Also, it never had the brake fluid flushed. I know there is a 80k service that costs about $500 by me, and I think the timing belt job is around $900. Can anyone advise me if I need to bring the car in IMMEDIATELY, or can I wait, and also what else I should have done to ensure safety. Thanks for your help!

Jaime

My experience with timing belts has been to change them as soon as practical after 60,000 miles. At 88K I doubt it is urgent but I would not (my opinion) want to pass 100K with the original. You must also consider the age of your belt. The compounds used in 1992 are bound to be breaking down now that they have been subjected to all those miles and underhood heat of 15 years.
 
Safe is always better than sorry.

hmm.. I think it would be best to have your vw cabrio checked.this is to know what could be really the prob and to avoid other problems. as what OWH said.. "safe is always better than sorry"..