Shop Volkswagen Touareg Timing Chain Tensioner

Common Symptoms of a Bad Volkswagen Touareg Timing Chain Tensioner

The Volkswagen Touareg timing chain tensioner is not a component that you will care about every day. In fact, you will only hear about this component when your engine starts to fail. Nevertheless, the timing chain tensioner has a small but significant role-it is responsible in maintaining the appropriate tension on the timing chain. Without it, the engine will not work properly. If you experience problems with your car's engine, then you might want to take a look at the timing chain tensioner.

Engine damage

If your timing chain tensioner is made from plastic, it could fail prematurely and cause severe engine damage. If you hear a noise from the engine while your car is on idle or during a cold start, this is usually the first indication of a faulty tensioner. Sometimes, the noise is accompanied by a rough or uneven idle. To fix this, immediately replace the plastic timing chain tensioner with a new one made of sturdier material. If there are other components damaged by this failure, replace them with new ones as well. Do not ignore this problem as neglect could lead to more costly repairs.

Noise in front of the engine

If you hear an abnormal noise from the timing chain, then this indicates that the tensioner has failed. The component's failure is generally caused by lack of oil applied to the timing chain guides. Should you experience this problem, immediately oil the timing chain assembly or have it serviced if you are not familiar with the component. Ignoring this problem could lead to more serious issues such as engine misfire and generated error codes.

Other troubleshooting tips

When you have to replace the timing chain tensioner, you will have to replace the entire timing chain set, including the chains, the gear set, and the guides. This is to prevent the same problem from occurring again in the future.

Know how many timing chains your car's engine has as it may have several installed. Even if only one tensioner is the problem, you will need to replace all the chain sets in the engine as a preventive measure.

Use high-quality, fully synthetic engine oil to extend the life of the timing chain tensioner. It will also help prevent the engine from failing.