How The 2.0T TSI Timing Chain Tensioner Fails ~ Video

TSI timing chain tensioner

Today we are looking at how the timing chain tensioner failed on the 2.0t TSI engine. The most common engine code is CCTA. This 2.0t was used in almost all VW models from 2008 and up. While my shop has not seen a super high failure rate, we have seen a good amount. Unlike many parts, the failure of this chain tensioner can cause catastrophic engine damage. Also a shout out to Apex Tuning. They saved a few of the tensioners for me, so I can do this video for you.

Sponsor Of The Day
Today’s show is sponsored by Deutsche Auto Parts. They are the VW and Audi parts experts. They have great prices and awesome service. Plus they work really hard on a ton of VW DIY videos. Paul and the fellas at DAP are awesome. Also check out their new site at SHOPDAP.com The article Deutsche Auto Parts wrote about failing timing chain tensioners.

Join me today as we break down:2.0T timing chain tensioner failure

  • How many times the 2.0t TSI Timing chain tensioner has been updated
  • What is a timing chain tensioner
  • How does the timing chain tensioner work
  • How does the 2.0t TSI timing chain fail
  • Symptoms of timing chain failure
  • How to diagnose a timing chain failure
  • Average time to failure
  • Can you DIY the timing chain tensioner
  • SPECIAL TOOL REQUIRED! (yes it is that important
  • and more

Trouble viewing? Watch “How The 2.0T TSI Timing Chain Tensioner Fails ~ Video” on YouTube.

As always, your questions and comments are welcome.
Please post them below. If you would like to suggest a part of a show like this, email me Charles(at)HumbleMechanic(dot)com. Thanks again to Deutsche Auto Parts for being such a great sponsor.

Don’t forget to follow me at:2.0T timing chain tensioner failure

4 replies
  1. Nick
    Nick says:

    Is the k series part number the only one that is not considered faulty? Or are there other part numbers that didn’t have the issue? Also if the car is a 2010 and never had the tensioner replaced, is it definitely an older model or a were the good/bad tensioner so in mixed production batches?

    Reply
  2. Ron
    Ron says:

    Purchased 2012 vw gli 2.0 tsi engine with 76,000 miles. Car runs great, I read they used 2 different tensioners in 2012, is it possible I got a good one. MFG 5/12 Thank you.

    Reply
  3. James
    James says:

    Hey Humble Mechanic, I own a second hand Golf 5 GTI axx engine.
    The persistent or annoying problem with the engine of the car, is it rattles though it drives smooth with no hesitations. I read somewhere about failed engine impulse sensor and their effect on the engine. I changed them, well the notified difference now is, its more powerful than before. but the problem of rattling hasnt stopped.

    I suspect it is coming from the cam chain tensioner. Could it be? and if it is, how many parts need to be replaced; is it just the tensioner or both tensioner and the chain.

    can it be a DIY part of the job?

    I am writing far from South Africa

    Reply

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