Timing Chain, Checking

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE:

If an elongated camshaft timing chain is suspected based on complaints (for example noises), the timing chain can be checked as described in the following.

-- Remove the right wheel housing liner. Refer to FRONT WHEEL HOUSING LINER, REMOVING AND INSTALLING .

-- Remove the plug -arrow-. The plugs must be replaced.

Fig 1: Identifying Plug

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-- Turn the vibration damper in direction of engine rotation until the chain tensioner piston is extended the maximum distance in the -direction of the arrow-.

Fig 2: Identifying Vibration Damper

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-- Count the visible piston teeth.

NOTE:

The visible teeth are all of the teeth that are located to the right of the chain tensioner housing -arrow-.

If six or fewer splines are visible: the camshaft timing chain does not need to be replaced.
If seven or more splines are visible: the camshaft timing chain must be replaced. Refer to CAMSHAFT TIMING CHAIN, REMOVING AND INSTALLING .