VW/Audi considers the timing chains on the 2.0TSI to be a lifetime item, that doesn't need to be replaced. However, enthusiasts tend to know a little better. The first questioned asked when looking for a 2.0TSI car for sale is “Do you know when the chains were done?” Any VW/Audi owner knows that if the chains are not maintained and timing service done, headaches can be expected in the future.
With no service interval to go by, you need to pay attention to the chains. The first symptom is noise in the timing system. The chains slap around because of worn tensioners and guides. The common sound is “marbles in a can.” Failed guides can cause the chains to jump, skip a tooth and potentially snap. Because the 2.0TSI is an interference motor, a snapped chain or one that has jumped a tooth means that valves can contact the pistons and cause catastrophic engine failure.
* This kit is designed for the chain driven EA888 2.0TSI engine only.
