There are numerous very good reasons why you should time or align the timing marks. One, you have baseline to reference in case things get out of alignment. Being off by a tooth has happened to people because the VVT allows for some movement. If you are too off, then you can bend valves. Two, belts ...

[Bottom line I feel like the new belt doesn't care where the engine rotation is, just as long as the new belt maintains the exact same tooth engagement between the camshaft and crankshaft cogwheels Exactly. The problem is the relationship between cogwheel and camshaft, in a VVT CAR like Volvos from...

Always align the marks and the paint on the belt/cogs can be used as a backup in case things get out of alignment. I like to put paint pen marks on the actual timing marks so it is easier to see. Then as you check the rear cog/sprocket alignment (closes to firewall), use your phone to take a pic. Th...