Hydraulic Valve Lifter, Checking

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2014 Volkswagen Jetta, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, and 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE:

Replace the complete hydraulic valve lifter. It cannot be adjusted or serviced.

Irregular valve noises are normal while starting the engine.

Special tools and workshop equipment required

Feeler Gauge
Wooden or plastic wedge

Perform the Following

-- Start the engine and let it run until the coolant fan comes on one time.

-- Increase the RPM to approximately 2, 500 for two minutes.

If the hydraulic valve lifters are still noisy, determine which lifter is defective as follows:

-- Remove the intake manifold with the fuel rail, refer to INTAKE MANIFOLD WITH FUEL RAIL, REMOVING AND INSTALLING .

-- Remove the cylinder head cover.

-- Turn crankshaft clockwise until camshaft lobe for valve lifter to be tested is pointing upward.

-- Check clearance between cam lobes and valve lifters.

If the play exceeds 0.2 mm:

-- Replace the valve lifter.

If minimal play of 0.1 mm or no play is measured, continue the procedure as follows:

-- Lightly press the valve lifter downward with a wood or plastic wedge.

Fig 1: Identifying Valve Lifter Pressed Downward Using Wedge

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

If 0.20 mm thick feeler gauge can be inserted between camshaft and valve lifter, replace valve lifter.

NOTE:

After installing new hydraulic valve lifters, the engine may not be started for approximately 30 minutes. Hydraulic equalization elements must seat themselves. Otherwise the valves will impact the pistons.