How The 2.0T TSI Timing Chain Tensioner Fails

[@trappserver9824]

What is sad is other sites claim the Audi is the 3rd most reliable vehicle. No way. 25 trips to the dealer and towed 6 times in 4 years is obsene. They lied to us for 3 years about oiling. Finally stepped up and fixed the rods, pistons and rings. After 3 trips to the dealer for 3 check engine lights, magically after we got out of warranty, this happens... Now we have to decide whether to scrap a $55k car for $5k. They project a $7k to $14k bill to fix this problem. Sell your Audi and get a reliable car which the manufacturer doesn't lie about oiling and other failures like this and they don't stand behind.

[@eautobahn2993]

I believe I dodged a bullet bc of watching this video. Subscriber here: my Mk6 Gti was making a rattling sound upon cold start. Hmm, sounds like the chain..took it in, and, yup, waaay out. Big bill, but I believe I saved my engine. Whew! Thanks!

[@3dScience_uk]

april 2020, your video from may 2015 is still very helpful. MANY THANKS!

[@MichaelRodriguez-vl8by]

Fuck, thanks for the useful information but this just ruined my day. I should have done more research before upgrading my MK5 to the MK6. I thought I wouldn't have to worry about preventative maintenance like this to avoid catastrophic failure. I'm gonna be so nervous until I can actually replace my tensioner.

[@HumbleMechanic]

Sorry. :( but I would rather people know..

[@orlandosalazar7721]

I'll stick to the good old fashioned 1.8t 20v engine with timing belt.

[@makemoneyonline8793]

Yup...Same here😃

[@Onthewater763]

Mine failed on 2012 Gti at 46k miles .. Bent valves and damaged pistons. My aftermarket warranty paid for a new engine so I was lucky.. now I have a new engine .. bill was $7200 from dealer ..

[@TomasEnriqueAraya]

This vid makes me nervous. I too have a 2012 GTI @ 47k miles. Just waiting for it to fail so my extended warranty gets me a new engine. I have up until 75k miles on the warranty to cover this. If it does not fail, I will have the service performed under warranty before it hits 75k on the odo.

[@eppyz]

TomasEnriqueAraya not up to you if it will be covered under warranty. Most likely not unless the part actually fails while under warranty.

[@eppyz]

MrThomas good laugh so so untrue.

[@queenanneslace3659]

TomasEnriqueAraya Google VW TIMING CHAIN FAILURES . defective tensioners on certain years. After I brought up this issue with Local VW they replaced mine (2011) free - and I have NO warranty!

[@queenanneslace3659]

Jeff Eppenger Google VW TIMING CHAIN FAILURES . defective tensioners on certain years. After I brought up this issue with Local VW they replaced mine (2011) free - and I have NO warranty!

[@eb9367]

Thanks for your videos! I preventatively replaced the tensioners on my 2011 CC at 87K miles. Cost me $1700, but the 'slapping' noise on cold starts, and the grinding, 'gurgling' sounds in slow traffic are gone. Drives like a different car. Thanks for the useful info!

[@batchimed7392]

My car was totally fine until I took it for a rear main seal replacement which wasn't even leaking upon opening. When it came out, the engine started sounding different with all the sounds you mentioned. I just don't know for the life of me what the guy had done to my car. He swears he didn't do anything besides putting back things were they were and how they were. Only 40k miles.

[@eb9367]

@@batchimed7392 Hate to hear that... 40k is around the time my first transmission went out. I'm at 118k, on my third transmission, and have officially paid more in repairs than I paid for the car! I'm in so deep it doesn't even make sense to sell it now. Going to drive it till it literally dies, then I will never drive anything Volkswagen again. Love the channel though

[@buszkenep]

My brother think he would put a 1/2 inch hose clamp on the new tensuner shaft that flaxuates in and out from tensuner housing and he guaranties that timingchain will not jump again and destroy the engine! I steal think is should flasuate that shaft so tha chain on left site wouldnt stay to tight! What you guys think???

[@nvdubs]

Timing chain finally failed on the 09 Wolfsburg I got for free (because of the failure). Had 170,000 miles on it and all the timing parts were original...lol.

[@datsuntoyy]

Mine is in the shop now. Officially it's in for a "stretched timing chain". It was running but VERY rough. Gotta laugh, the warranty is 100k miles per the class action, mine died at 99,700k. I'm going to also ask them to replace the cam bridge, lower cover, serpentine, serpentine idler and water pump (leaking). 2009 A4 The did the PCV at 66k and the pistons at 76k. Guess I just have the turbo to look forward to now, as they are also prone to failure. Just like my 2013 S6's.

[@HumbleMechanic]

They have a list of parts they will have to replace most likely. Good time for the water pump to be replaced but they will have you pay for that.

[@paulvivier1984]

So was the class action for a period of time or only 100,000?

[@TheUffeHammer]

Are there any replacement parts for a 1.4 tsi engine, which could develop the same problem?

[@heartattakjoe7152]

what about the 1.4 tsi? does it have the same chain problems as the 2.0?

[@vladandrei51]

For the old revision chain/tensioner, yes

[@moniack]

Thanks for the video. My powertain warranty is up next month, and I've been considering replacing it- I think you've persuaded me to do it. I've done quite a few timing belts, so I think I can do it as l long as I have a good diy and that washer.

[@HumbleMechanic]

Ken Moniaci I think there are a ton of DIYs online. Just remember to take your time. :)

[@TandD1w]

2012 VW GTI, bought used at 98,000, now has 112k. First VW so we're learning about this timing chain failure the hard way. Two weeks prior to the impact, the engine set a code for a missfire on #2. Diagnosis was worn plugs. Put new plugs in, but it was still a bit burbly on cold start. Then the valves hit. Spent $5,500 to have the head repaired... now the engine sets a code for a misfire on #1. Shop says that compression is 90psi on #1 and this goes up to 130 when they squirt some oil in the cylinder. I can't believe the rings now failed. Thoughts? Advice?

[@TandD1w]

Status update: I did a leakdown test on the engine and found 80% leakage. The air could be heard out of the exhaust. Two weeks later, the car seemed to be running better but the check engine light was still on. I did another leakdown and the leakage was down to 50%. I waited another week and it was at 27%. It's a miracle! My wife was able to track down the shop that did the machine work on the head and they told her they don't lap valves. It would appear one valve on the #1 cylinder wasn't sealing and needed to wear in. Lesson be learned; use a good machine shop! Any monkey can compress a valve spring and swap valves in their garage.

[@lent411]

One symptom is a rattle during low rpms. Also, a distinct rattle at startup.

[@johnmac609]

Mine rattles high in the rev range, 4-red line, only sometimes. Ever hear of that being related? 2015 gti see non pp car.

[@hungrychowhound11612]

The videos are always helpful and informative. The most annoying part of it all is it worth getting and keeping these cars. Seems like all things German are just a crap shoot. Nothing more inspiring then hearing about all the different parts and things that can go wrong with VW's. Yet we keep buying these cars. Though no car is perfect, I'm considering therapy, in hopes of understanding why I have a gti and a cc. Both 2.0t with tsi. Anything else, would seem better then owning a VW again. As always Charles thanks for helping me question my sanity as well as try to keep them running. I miss my 03 Jetta 1.8t.

[@FurkanCemTurfanda]

Does the latest generation of the EA888 have this issue as well?

[@Iwillnotbepushed]

No

[@karfryd]

Nice video. How about warning "oil pressure low shut off engine". I noticed lots of people have this problem. I changed oil pressure sensor in my car, changed oil etc. Still same warning. Do you have any experience with that?

[@rfn944]

A friend of mine has a 2009 Tiguan 2.0 L TSI. He purchased it from a used car dealer that repaired it after a timing chain tensioner failure. The engine had the valves replaced and the latest tensioner installed. The car runs okay for the most part, but has a nagging P0341 code that sets the CEL. Also the EPC light will flash on then go off. I have replaced the cam position sensor and still get the P0341. If the mechanic didn't use the tool you mentioned, T10368 and the timing was off would the car still run good? Does this cam code out of range appear to be a timing issue even though up front looks fine? How do you check it? If wrong, how do you correct it.

[@pauljames7235]

I have a 2010 jetta, first engine failed due to timing chain. Replaced it (6k when I only laid 8k for the car) and now it's throwing a P 0341 code as well. Wondering how this resolved for your friend?

[@The_Opinion_of_Matt]

Apex Tuning talked to me about this just last week and sent me the link to this video. Thanks for the explanation!

[@HumbleMechanic]

Awesome!! Funny too because that's where I shot most of this video. Good dudes over there

[@HumbleMechanic]

Wait I was wrong. I shot the "how to check it" video there. This was talking about it.

[@TruthInBeauty]

Here's my response from Volkswagen after requesting they repair my GTI, stating they are unaware of any such issue: facebook.com/708595994/posts/10156415333240995/ Reference # 181096624 Dear Ms. Sorensen, Having to get alternate transportation for over year due to your vehicle being immobile, while still paying on the loan, is certainly frustrating. I regret to learn of the experience you have had due the timing tensioner concerns on your GTI. I appreciate the research you have done regarding the concerns with your VW, as this is something I do myself with my own car when any concerns arise. I realize you found information that timing tensioner concerns are common, with multiple class action lawsuits open. At this time we here at CARE have not received any information on a class action lawsuit related to timing tensioner in our models. While we cannot predict how long a part may last, Volkswagen alongside the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) researches vehicle concerns as we want our drivers to have the best possible experience with our models. We will issue a VIN specific recall or other action if we find a trend through customer, dealer, and other internal feedback. Using your GTI’s VIN, I found there are no actions related to the timing tensioner on your vehicle at this time. Outside of an action, we must rely on our warranty parameters when considering repair assistance. The timing tensioner a on your GTI was covered under the Powertrain Limited Warranty for 5 years or 60,000 miles, whichever occurred first, from the in-service date of November 11, 2008. Due to the time and mileage of your vehicle outside this warranty, we cannot provide cost assistance with the repairs or other compensation at this time. I wish I could offer you a more favorable answer. Customer feedback though is crucial to our process of seeing if an action needs to be released in the future. I have added your concerns about the timing chain to our research base. If an action or a settlement related to a class action lawsuit be released in the future for your GTI, Volkswagen will send notification by mail to owners of affected vehicles. You mentioned pursuing legal action to get the compensation you are seeking, and this is your right as a consumer. I understand wanting to look into all possible options to research your vehicle concerns. Should you retain an attorney though, all communication to Volkswagen would need to come directly from that resource. Please let me know if you have any other questions. Sincerely, Sarah S. Customer CARE Advocate

[@bernardtgx]

Hi I noticed that in most of the replies you mentioned that the CCTA engine is mostly affected, I have an A3 1.8 tfsi CDAA, what are the chances that these engine might also be affected by the tensioner because the exterior of the engines are basically the same? Thanks.

[@Olexanderko]

I don't understand you. I have GTI 2012, TSI 2.0, I have checked by vin I have : 06k109467K, means new one. Should I worrying about something? 147 000 km, I have Phase diff: -3.81.

[@AeonCatalyst]

Hey Charles, I just had my intake manifold cleaned of cabon deposits. My mechanic (VW enthusiast) pulled the plug to check out my 2012 GTI's tensioner - it's the latest version, but he said that it was ~75% extended. He said that after another 30k miles or so, I might need to consider a new timing chain. What I want to know is, is it possible for the timing chain to NOT get more and more slack? Can it maybe just stretch to a certain distance, and then be fine for the life of the car? Or is it pretty typical that once you've noticed any stretching, it's going to stretch over time until all the tension the tensioner can provide is used up?

[@seancunningham7589]

Hey so I have a 2010 tiguan I bought for 500 put used motor in .. car has 120 k engine 89 k when bought now 104k… has p0016 aka p052a I believe… also the p03xx codes.. 3 of em.. so starts fine runs rough.. as soon as gas pedal depressed it runs fine.. but while cruising or at idle .. shakes and misfire .. NOT compression related.. hear slight rattle… is this the tensioner?? Any input greatly appreciated.. also I run California street machine. A automotive machine shop that does performance builds .. but these dang German things out out of my realm.. but totally capable.. not gonna pay 4 k to replace tensioner when I can do myself.. but please tell me if h think tensioner is problem or sensor.. also replace cam position sensor with one from old engine .. same with vvt solenoid and electro magnet.. crank positions sensor took out cleaned and installed… any input GREATLY appreciated.. thank you

[@pvultureb8341]

My VW just crapped on me. Cylinder 1 misfire guess what caused it? F**** VW, why are you so crappy nowadays.?????? OH god help me! Financially!!!

[@HumbleMechanic]

+Pvulture b damn, I hate to hear that. :(

[@pvultureb8341]

HumbleMechanic TSI Engine man I dreaded for this day. My beloved VW has now taken a sucide pill. Hereditary timing chain issue, never thought I would have it. Only 3 year old car and just ran out of warranty. I don't know what to do.

[@ezondiet]

Hello. I'm looking to your videos, trying to solve my audi a4 2009 problem. My weather pump start leaking, I bought a new one and Installed, but te mechanic said the gear that moves the water pump us not turning. Any idea of what this could be??

[@lorinser2004]

I have p0304 error , replaced coils with spark plugs , pvc valve , still have same issue! Mechanic told me than is a timing chain problem . I think he tried to get so money but not to fix my car

[@aceczf6965]

Late reply but that is not a mechanic. He is playing with your money guessing/swapping parts. Proper mechanics will have proper equipment to tell exactly what needs fixing + following correct procedures when it comes to narrowing down the options of what actually needs replacing.

[@marinmotorsports]

Your videos are awesome! Great job! We bought an 07 Passat from a customer with a failed tensioner/bent valves. Head reworked, new valves. My tech (and myself) did not know about the non-indexed crank pulley (crazy!!)...and, as you mentioned in the video took 7+? times to correct..I'm curious the faults you received. We have have no timing rationality faults, but misfires on all four with freeze frame data showing they are all set at the same time. The misfires occur when recorded at 754rpm, but are noticeable, and repeatable up to about 2K, even when not moving, and just holding RPM. After 2K, it runs awesome. I'm guessing we messed up the timing. Would love your thoughts. Thanks, Scott, Marin Motorsports.

[@Pegasus6457]

My 2013 GTI with 22,191 miles had complete engine failure while in the dealerships possession. Chain tensioner #06K-109-407-K vehicle shut off while driving and will not restart. Also, there is no mention of the oil pan being dropped and cleaned to remove any possibility of debris in the block. Total rebuild of top half of the engine, now I have to worry about this possible happening every 20K. Daus auto how about DAUS THIS!

[@HumbleMechanic]

+Victoria Davis WOW on a 2013? That is the newest I have seen. I have not seen any put metal into the block, but there is a first time for everything I guess.

[@shelaneyleppell1654]

Ok I got a check engine light that came on but my car does run just doesn't want to go past 60 so had it checked and was told it was misfiring and that the code came back Intake camshaft position timing- Over-Advanced (Bank 1) Cylinder 4 misfire Detected So I was wondering if it could just be the Tensioner or something more?

[@edwardperez6729]

So does the car crank, but doesn’t start? That’s the problem I’m having. Thanks!

[@elijahkeith5766]

Is there a specific length that the “06K109467K” is extended before you need to replace it?

[@Jacob-sq6dx]

Is shaking when cold a symptom of timing chain failure? We have a 2012 Audi A4 wagon and it shakes when cold

[@luiscamacho06]

Hey so 20 minute ago my 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0T shut off on me at an intersection. It started it up had it towed home. I just got home and it starts up fine but it’s making a rattling sound and has a cyl 1 misfire code. Swapped coils and it still says cyl 1. Is this symptom of a timing chain issue? Also cranks just fine not freely so leads to me believe that valves were not damaged.

[@SG-sz5vh]

i understand this timing tensioner issue is for 2008-2012 vehicles (not sure if this is correct info) I have a '14 gti, which is essentially a '13. Is this '14 model year affected by this issue? thnx.

[@HumbleMechanic]

+Steve G there was not hard date on a switch. My guess is it's okay, but you're going to want to check and be sure. Here is a video on how to check it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fWeYe2SXetitr8U

[@Gavin409]

My tensioner failed but still runs and drives just lost all power I had the 2013 gli I replaced it out home without taking the engine out I must say I got lucky I thought it was a rod knock at first but did some research and it was the tensioner luckily it didn’t jump time or anything surprisingly I just replaced it and it was good but I still went ahead and made sure it was timed anyway the tensioner would just move back n forth causing it to run rough and no power

[@sbcncsu]

Charles, a great video. I would like to understand all of the failure modes for the timing chain tensioner failures. I also wish there was a way to know which version I have. My 2012 Tiguan is approaching 70K miles and at low rpm and under load, I hear a sound similar to a high frequency spark-knock from the passenger's side. I wonder if I am hearing the tensioner on its way out?

[@HumbleMechanic]

sbcncsu That could be a timing chain tensioner issue. I would give Apex Tuning in Apex a call. Chat with Kevin and see if they can take a look at it for you. Tell them I sent ya! (Assuming you are still near NC State)

[@luismayajp518]

Good video, just starting to watch some of them, I have a 2013 cc with 59k miles on it, have not had any issues at all with this car ..... if i want to do any preventive maintenance on my car should i do the tensioner, how do i know if the tensioner i have is a good one or bad one? and any other things i should have done while its in the shop?

[@fabianmendoza8633]

I have a problem my gti 2012 2.0tsi ,crank but don't turn on ,and I scan and throw me the crankshaft sensor and have over boost

[@eddiepadilla1078]

Thumbs-up! I'd really like to see, and appreciate, a similar discussion regarding the FSI timing chain tensioner.

[@johnmourmz9519]

I have tiguan 2.0 tsa ccta and i want to know if i have to change the oil transmission at 60000 km knowing car maudacturer does not prescribed. Thank you

[@mikeystable824]

hey bro, if you could check my video out i would appreciate it! my 2014 mk6 is having some issues

[@lbnlu1748]

Didn’t vw update this part in the 2012 and above models so we wouldn’t have this problem?

[@broken2businessbuilt362]

im currently checking mines out and my tensioner looks to be the old style but there is no slack or anything, all of the engine shut off symptons and wont crank now, i did notice i have broken behind the actual chain could this be the cause of my failure?

[@justinraposo9960]

Have you heard this problem on the gen 3 ea888? I'm considering buying a 2012 Audi A3 with the tsi. but may go with a 14 gli with the newer engine if this is really as common as some people say. any thoughts?

[@nickolastiguan]

Hi Charles, anything i can do to maybe help prevent (or prolong) it from failing? like changing the engine oil more often? thanks.

[@HumbleMechanic]

proper maintenance is vital. I would to an oil change every 5k if I was keeping our Tiggy.

[@nickolastiguan]

HumbleMechanic thanks. i have doing exactly that, so fingers crossed!

[@sergevivier2023]

Use the proper oil for this car and it is not 5w-40 it is 0w-30 european formula

[@mustangdemon87]

@@sergevivier2023 proof of this?

[@ClaudiuB]

jump into the money pit or... sell it

[@chrisburger1603]

awesome , love the straight shooting talk!

[@mikejd35d23]

The tensioner is not the problem on these motors. The main timing chain stretches, quite a bit. I don't know if it's due to the long oil change interval or poor quality. When the chain gets too long the tensioner gets to the end of it's travel (not the parts fault. We replace the tensioner with the updated one, the main chain, the guides and the lower sprocket on the crank. About $450 Can. at the dealer including the oil filter and oil. The chain for the oil pump and balance shaft seem to never wear. Their guides stay nice as well. We have some cars and SUVs well into 200k miles with no problems. Ignore the 12k oil change from audi and use common sense. We run reg oil for a few days to clean the engine out then just change the oil to sythetic (T6).

[@pauljames7235]

Where in Canada are you?

[@mikejd35d23]

@@pauljames7235 montreal

[@shudson2490]

Charles, So I've got a 2009 TSI Passat with 127K. I just found this video. I'm considering doing this myself. Would you need pulley holding tool T10355 to hold the pulley while loosening bolt? no videos mention holding pulley with tool and deutsche kit doesn't include one

[@HumbleMechanic]

You will need that or some type of equivalent to hold the pulley. Zipping that bolt off with an impact makes me very nervous. I would hate for the gear to spin. They have them on Amazon too. amzn.to/2aenkn7

[@benz240d]

Mine just carped out too on 2010 Tiguan, I pulled the engine and took the head to machine shop to get the valve replaced. Cylinder 1 no compression. Put back together and the B*** is running smooth again. Doing anther tomorrow for a friend. VW is starting to piss me off.

[@zsoltgyergyai337]

This is the worst brand that ever produced car engines in the word, there is nothing worse than a vw gas engine... horrible design...

[@charleshines5700]

Does changing the oil on time or sooner along with using a good brand help?

[@1879gym]

When it fails is it automatically bending valves also? And therefore requires the heads , valve??? Any thing else that's typical

[@thehermanli]

basically... its because the vw engine is of the interference design.

[@stanlinalexander1967]

Hey I have a 2013 CC R-Line. Do you think this car has the updated tensioner?

[@HumbleMechanic]

+Stanlin Alexander On that generation, most likely. But i would still want to check. I will do a video soon.

[@stanlinalexander1967]

Thank You! I appreciate the feedback!

[@rishabhsaxena5039]

hey mate , I have a 1.8 TSI and plan to change the tensioner which u mentioned. Is it necessary to replace the timing chain as well ? thanks in advance and keep up the good work

[@HumbleMechanic]

Seen more chain issues with the 1.8 than the 2.0

[@rishabhsaxena5039]

+HumbleMechanic Skoda service in India know nothing about this issue and are even reluctant to change the parts if we want to get it done. They say we can do it but u have to give in writing that all responsibility will be yours in case any issue happens :(

[@luisfernandocabrero5186]

Hi, I have a 2009 VW CC with the 2.0 TSI, it has 121k miles. The car sounds little bit like a diesel, do you think it si the timing chain tensioner?

[@HumbleMechanic]

YIKES! Probably not, but maybe. Either way, you need to get that checked out ASAP

[@LuisMaldunadus]

When should I worry about VW parts to fail? Assuming average and not abuse of vehicle

[@lytheus69]

the timing chain tensioner is actually one of the only parts you should really worry about failing prematurely, everything else that would "fail" is generally regular things that every car needs replacing at certain mileages. generally, your VW should be very reliable if you maintain it properly.

[@unearth1yone]

Hello I have valve cover / cam cover gasket leak (green anaerobic sealant) on 2012 vw CC (2.0 TTsi engine)... my car is at 133k miles and I have never had the timing chain tensioner / chain itself replaced. My local mechanic is telling me that when he removes the cam cover to replace the green anaerobic sealant it is really recommended to do the timing chain tensioner and chain itself as removing the cover without doing it can throw the engine out of time. He is quoting me $950 for the gasket replacement and $1700 for the gasket / timing chain / tensioner work. Is it really necessary to do this when you do the gasket to keep it in time? At what mileage does the chain / tensioner usually mess up? Reasonable pricing? Thank you so much for what you do.

[@siyandabunu2648]

I have a problem with my vw polo 2010. It is giving me a water problem, before I go to work I have to fill up the water botle and when i leave the office to my home, ifill up the water.please help me I dont know what to do. Thank you.

[@HumbleMechanic]

siyanda bunu Sadly we don't have the Polo in the US. I would HIGHLY recommend taking it to a dealer or a VW shop to get if looked at. That can cause major engine damage.

[@loluspololus]

check oil level ones a week !!!!!! those tsi's like suck some oil

[@eppyz]

lolus pololus had my MK6 GTI for 5 yrs not once have I had to add a drop of oil between oil changes. I run Castrol 0w40 changed every 5k miles 👍 zero issues.

[@datsuntoyy]

not if the pistons and PCV are replaced per the TSB. I use about 1/4 qt in 10k miles at most.

[@jonsmith6496]

Changed mine preventatively for $1500. Great peace of mind though!

[@dannymartinez8522]

Jon Smith that's a lot of for just the tensioner replacement

[@hankrapo]

Where at 1500???

[@ClaudiuB]

I've paid 150 Euros the part and around 200 E the labor in France

[@lynnmckenney1987]

Currently car shopping, and was drooling at the 2012 tiguan prices. In fact, the prices were SO good, I felt like I was missing something....a quick google took me to tons of failed timing chain tensioner thread on vwvortex, mostly who got little to no support from vw. Thank you for this video, SO much, you saved me from buying a car that has a "common" major point of failure that the manufacturer does not seem to want to issue a recall for.

[@HumbleMechanic]

+Lynn Mckenney I have seen the support go both ways. REALLY high miles they don't help, but if the car is close to warranty, they have helped.

[@mrburgermaster]

The K series is a simpler design, and usually lasts longer. A chain for the balance shaft, and another chain for the oil pump is an example of the extra complexity in this engine family.

[@catinthehat5140]

My dad's 95 escort had a single timing belt that covered the cam and water pump. For whatever reason the water pump seized which caused the timing belt to run over the frozen gear destroying the belt. Thankfully the engine was non-interference however having a single belt meant that any part that rotated could end up being what destroys the timing systems

[@ProfessionalDad]

whats the tensioner for the cam chain called?

[@nicholasdavis8097]

How do you know if the tensioner is old type or the new one? How do you check the position of the cam shafts. Do you need to remove the upper cover? Do they have timing marks? Im getting codes p0016 p0300-p0304 . Can you help

[@HumbleMechanic]

+Nicholas Davis here is how to check. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fWeYe2SXetitr8U

[@Matt-Hindrance]

Hi Charles, my 2012 GTI's engine keeps shutting off every few weeks while getting onto throttle after a corner, and it throws a "P0341 - Camshaft Pos.Sensor Circ. Range/Performance" code. I've replaced that sensor and it still happens, is the P0341 code a symptom of a faulty Timing Chain Tensioner? Thank you so much, I love your channel, it's so helpful even in June of 2020. Have a great day.

[@ludhianvi1]

How would it effect the timing if you just tighten the crank pully bolt only without installing t10368. Please expain because iam doing this job right now.

[@HumbleMechanic]

I’m not sure the bolt will snug down all the way. Plus you don’t want to damage the Ridges on the gear. You can use a stack of washers if you don’t have the tool

[@brianlogsdon3879]

My 08 Passat just failed. 74k miles. Oil pump failed last year but dealer did not inform me of the tensioner problem and did not check...now the engine is trashed.

[@HumbleMechanic]

Oh that SUCKS. I’m sorry

[@queenanneslace3659]

Google VW TIMING CHAIN FAILURES . defective tensioners on certain years. After I brought up this issue with Local VW they replaced mine (2011) free - and I have NO warranty!

[@ClaudiuB]

After spending 1000$ on valve cleaning and injector change, my cam chain snapped :( the mk5 gti convinced me to never buy a moneypit again.

[@drewweikum5073]

Hey Charles. I'm about to order the kit from Deutsche, as I just saw that I have an older version of the tensioner and I just hit 60K. The job seems fairly straight forward but I was wondering if you had a diy for this job? Just replacement of the tensioner, not repairing any top end damage. Thanks!

[@HumbleMechanic]

No DIY for this job. I am very nervous to make that DIY. It is not a job for everyone. Be sure to use the spacer, don't put too much sealant on the cover, and take your time.

[@drewweikum5073]

Understandable! Thanks for the reply. That spacer gets bolted on before removing the cover, correct? I've never seen the special tool in person but I'm sure it'll all make more sense once I'm actually doing the job.

[@TandD1w]

112k, bought the car at 98. Couple of weeks ago the car started to start rough. Issue was diagnosed as worn plugs and a bad coil. Well, now we have the no start condition. 0 compression on two cylinders. Looking into trying this repair myself. I thought I watched a video by you that mentioned a company making a parts kit for the job? Could I please get the name of that company again?

[@oozhaboo]

I'm in process to add k04 with intercooler. gonna go ahead and do this too. thanks for vid

[@HumbleMechanic]

NICE!

[@dinokad]

Seat Ibiza 1.2TSI from 2011, not completely died, yellow engine lamp is on, and noise from the chain, ~18.000 miles. What are the chances the engine has survived?

[@DasBanditN]

Hi Guys, I hope someone can help me out here. Aprox 2 years ago I got a sound where it slightly rattles when starting the car. Funny thing is it only does that when it is over 5-6 celcius. During winters i barley ever hear the sound when starting the car cold outside. Also it only sounds when the car has been off for a couple of hours. Here is the clip s241.photobucket.com/user/vajking1/media/97A7C626-BC76-4A49-BBD0-F33040F60567_zpsiyxpvy7o.mp4.html?sort=3&o=55 The dealers tell me its normal but I want to figure this one out because Im keeping the car for couple more years. Could this be tensioner to the chain? Its a A6 2.0TFSI same engine as in B7 A4. I thought at first that it came from underneath the car, but later found out that its just resonating. Sound like it comes from the bak of the engine. The car otherwise goes perfectly. Sorry for my English spelling :D

[@Mazzerants]

Mine started making a terrible rattle/tapping but went away when over idle. 99% sure its timing chain because it was never replaced, got a low oil warning, and it has 111K miles. Plus it had a terrible metallic grind for a split second when I turned it off before adding more oil.... After adding oil just the rattle/tapping when at idle.

[@barcodequality]

I can confirm that Humble Mechanic is 100% correct. If you do not know for sure, inspect your timing chain tensioner ASAP. The tensioner fails just like he describes. Replace that old style tensioner before catastrophic engine damage occurs without any notification or advance signs of failure.

[@jardenshafik]

Does this apply to the 1.4 tsi engine? Am having a crankshaft and camshaft position correlation fault code, plus I noticed that at idle before the check engine light Came on, the consumption was at 0.6 liters/ hour now it’s at 0.9l/h. Any advice is highly welcomed

[@arielgurgel]

my car started acting funny about a week ago, I noticed it took a couple extra seconds to start on the first day but ran fine, couple days go by and it still takes that extra time to start but now it sputtered for a couple seconds. couple days go by, everything mentioned before happened again but it misfired just after warming up and choked every time i hit the gas. this morning i went to check with VCDS and the new symptom is a misfire on all cylinders that does not go away, accompanied by the fault 000022 - Bank 1: CMP Sensor (G40) / Engine Speed Sensor (G28) P0016 - 000 - Incorrect Correlation - MIL ON Please help, anyone

[@Naud1]

Hello There. I have a few questions. I am looking to get an 09-15 Audi A5. I am scared of the 2.0T Engine. Since I can’t tell if the major engine repair has been done. Is there a way to tell without spending hundreds of dollars if the tensioner or chain has been replaced? For those model years with that engine, I think it was the chain that was recalled ?

[@ald5178]

If this happened to you (like it happened to me) then you should record a complaint on NHTSA website www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/VehicleComplaint/

[@wacoblaze]

I have a 2010 jetta 2.0t. It has about 95k miles atm. Apex recomended replacing the timing chain tensioner along with one of the gaskets. They want 1500 for the job. The car is only worth maybe 6 or 7k at best, but ive done some ecu tuning and i just love the car.....Any advice on wether i should drop all this money on an older car? Also i have a pretty significant oil leak from the rear main seal which is another 1100. Thanks for any help

[@AndreThompson925]

Hey Charles, my wife and I are looking at buying a CPO 2012 Tiguan SEL and I've heard this is an issue to consider... Car has 40k on it.

[@ijacobs333]

now im worried :-/ i have a 2013 2.0tsi amarok (South Africa market), what the odds it has the old type tensioner in? its on 180000km now (111846.815 miles) , if it were an old type, would it have failed by now?

[@HumbleMechanic]

Sadly we don't have the Amarok here. I can't really tell you.

[@ijacobs333]

ts a vw pickup truck, using the 2.0tsi engine

[@DigBipper188]

Since it hasn't hammered your valves and the engine still runs your tensioner should still be fine. HOWEVER... if your vehicle has done 112K on the original tensioner and chain it's never a bad idea to get them replaced. The timing chain tensioner shouldn't be too hard a job to do, but your timing chain will require some know-how or you could upset the crank and cam timings. If you haven't the slightest clue on replacing the timing chain, take your vehicle to a mechanic and let them do it for you... there's nothing worse than fitting your shiny new chain and tensioner, cranking the engine over for the first time and bending your valves because your crank was a tooth or two off TDC when you fitted the chain! well... that unless you're a tuner and you blow connecting rods out the side of your engine block while tuning... that makes bent valves look easier to fix than a broken headlamp!

[@ijacobs333]

HumbleMechanic found the engine code, CDFA

[@tonihoueiss4195]

How to change timing chain Audi 2009 a4 qauttro

[@xMrxiHacks]

Would you recommend the ECS Ultimate Timing Chain kit or should I just go with the OEM kit? I just have a bad Timming Chain Tensioner that makes noise when idle not when driving or giving gas.

[@jchie]

Hi, just bought our 2012 Tiguan as a 2nd owner. I've recently found out from VW that my Timing Chain has failed causing internal damage to engine. I was given a $11,200 before tax quote to get my car running again. My warranty just expired 9mos ago with 70,000kms. I am devastated and not sure how to go about this problem as I am out warranty. Any advice? Thanks

[@schmickles1968]

Hi I have a 1.8T TFSI A3Sline 2009, the Timing chain failed at around 60K about 18months ago, mechanic fixed it and has been sweet until xmas eve when exactly the same thing happened at around 75mph a bump and loss of power on the motorway EPC light came on and had to dodge a HGV that was coming up fast behind!! This A3 is our 2nd car and my wife is the owner and she has only done around 4K in 18months as she works not that far from home.. Would this been Warrantied? We are gutted to say the least as it cost a fair bit of money the first time...Its now at the same garage for this reason but they havent mentioned the warranty.... Would they have known about the tensioner issues?? I believe Audi Had revised the tensioner in2015 Its in mint condition beautiful car, dark blue with Cream leather interior.... Audi need a punch !!!

[@edoudrick]

How many hours do you normally bill for a timing chain tensioner replacement? Also, do your sponsors care that you mispronounce their name? They included a pronunciation in the logo...that you show...every time.

[@travisbudd273]

How big would say the spring was on side this part

[@HarborLockRoad]

Im so worried about this with my '10 CC, praying that the last owner had it fixed prior, im thinking with 132k miles, if it was gonna go, it probably should have already.

[@Chris_Medina]

I have a 2014 GEN3 GLI, the car sounds like it wants to start but doesn’t. I’ve changed battery and I’ve changed the camshaft sensor cause I had got that code from vehicle I got rid of the check engine light but car still doesn’t start could it be tensioner?

[@sameersawant683]

hello i am from india i brought 2010 passat tsi last month from dealer for some engine vibration issues i scan the cat that time scanner result come :::: P00016 Crankshaft position-camshaft position : Correlation bank 1 sensor A ::: after that car was running smooth but starter was taking long time to start engine.. and finally yesterday car doesn't start please suggest...

[@davebuckholts]

Well my wife's 2014 GLI just had the tensioner fail....96k miles. I serviced the car per the manufacturer's guidelines. I have done several timing belt jobs on VWs, did the chains on my old 02 VR6 wagon, and have done several cam replacements on diesels. I have my wife's engine/trans out of the car at this time. For me personally, it makes this job a TON easier and since it's the first I've done I wanted to have it out in the open. I've bought the tools from Deutsche Auto for the chain job and will also buy the parts when I get the head off and decide to rebuild it or buy a new one (My gut says buy new....). Couple of questions.... The injectors are really giving me a fit to get them out. Any trick? I saw a different tool for removing the balancer and holding the gearset in place other than the plastic donut in the kit I have. How difficult is the balancer pulley to remove w/o upsetting the chain gearset? Anything I should look for with the turbo just to check it over? Man the intake is gunked up! Will carb spray/cleaner have any ill effects on anything on the intake? I plan of taking the TB off before decarbonizing. Thanks for you videos. They have been educational and fun to watch. Dave

[@paulchapman1677]

I was getting random codes on my 2011 gti. I have owned it from new, only 49000 miles. Serviced to the book. Took it to the dealer they said it was the timing chain. $1800 later still the same problem. Then they said it was the ecu. $1600 later still the same problems. VW of America told me to take it to a different dealer. These guys seem to know what they are doing. They diagnosed a bad wiring harness and a failing water pump. This is going to cost $1700+ . To say I'm not impressed is an understatement. I'm hoping to pick the car up this weekend. VW have had the car two months.

[@SaultiBalldeip]

My 2009 GTI JUST got this today. When I went to start it today it cranked over for about 3 secs before starting and then got the P0016 code. Once running it seems totally fine and I cannot hear any noise and the timing does not seem off at all. I am at 140k km...tensioner you think?

[@kawicyclez9903]

Udo Donotron im having the same problem on my 06 2.0t tsi a4. did you figure out the problem?

[@muratsol2679]

Hi could u find the problem ?, have same code,,,

[@4BillC]

I have a 2014 Audi A4 with about 60K miles. Trying to figure out if this is something I need to replace sooner than later, and what version of the tensioner I have.

[@Spicytunafreak83]

Quick question... I noticed that a few "tuned" ccta 2.0t owners have had issues with VWOA when these fail, while many do not. Why do you think that VWOA covers some tuned cars for these faulty tensioners and not others?

[@HumbleMechanic]

Spicytunafreak83 It really a call made at the dealership level. That call really depends on where you go. It also depends on what "tuned" means. Does that mean a cold air intake and exhaust? Or are we talking stage 2 with a K04?

[@Spicytunafreak83]

I was thinking stage 1 or 2 w/ dp ecu tune.

[@hellcat1962]

This worries me. We have a 2009 Tiguan with a 100,000 miles. So far, no problem. I mean how common is this problem? I mean I car in a 1000 or is this like the intake recall where all of them were bad and it is a matter of time. I have an extended warranty and I was thinking of having it done but I believe they won't do it because it is not making noise. What is your opinion?

[@gamefleitipon8527]

hey man. very cool and informative video. I just purchased the timing chain kit from Deutsche Auto Parts. My car stalls at very low speeds and the EPC goes on for like two seconds when that happens. and then I get a p0341 code camsahft position sensor A circuit range/Performance bank 1 or Single Sensor. I replace that sensor but is still giving me that code. FYI when the car is cold works perfect. but once it gets warm the issue shows up. I'm guessing maybe could be the chain? or the tensioner is not applying enough tension? I just bought the car it is a 2011 audi a4 2.0 t. could you give me some ideas about it? thanks!

[@Sean-Aviation]

How tight the timing chain should be? My ATV chain is TIGHT! cant feel any slack at all. maybe too tight? dont know if need to mess around with the tensioner