Volkswagen Tiguan Timing Chain Repairs

The Volkswagen Tiguan is a reliable family SUV, but like any vehicle, it will need maintenance now and then. Here, we’ll talk about the timing chain, a component that needs to be checked during basic routine maintenance. Let’s talk about how our experienced team can resolve issues with your timing chain.

COMMON TIGUAN TIMING CHAIN REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE

Question: Why might my VW have a timing chain issue?

Answer: Your Tiguan has a 1.8-liter engine that uses a timing chain. In previous years, Volkswagen has had some issues with timing chain failure due to the timing chain guides. The timing chain tensioner is made of plastic, which may fail in some Volkswagen Tiguans. If you hear rattling or misfiring while idling, your timing system may be failing. Another sign of timing chain issues includes contaminated engine oil.

Volkswagen’s Solution: It’s simple! Standard routine maintenance is the best fix. When your car engine is well maintained, your timing chain should last the life of the car.  Your local Volkswagen dealership has the right diagnostic tools to accurately determine what is causing the concern, ensuring that the issue gets fixed quickly and correctly.

Question: Is the Tiguan still a reliable SUV?

Answer: Yes, the Tiguan offers both safety and reliability in an affordable package. It consistently gets high safety ratings and ranks among the top vehicles in lists from publications like Car and Driver:

If you are ready to purchase, you can shop online or visit Low Country Volkswagen for a tour of our showroom today!

Question: What does a timing chain tensioner do?

Answer: A timing chain tensioner is used in an internal combustion engine to maintain proper tension on the timing chain. A timing chain tensioner applies constant pressure to the timing chain to keep it tight and prevent slack. It also allows the chain to expand and contract as the engine runs to account for thermal expansion and dampen chain vibrations to reduce noise and wear.

Question: What happens if the timing chain tensioner fails?

Answer: If the timing belt tensioner fails, the timing belt may break or become too loose to turn the camshafts. If this happens, the engine may not start because the valves are open when they shouldn’t be. This will result in valve-to-piston contact and catastrophic engine failure.

Volkswagen’s Solution: Your local VW dealership has the right diagnostic tools to accurately determine the cause, ensuring that the issue gets fixed quickly and correctly. Schedule a service appointment at Low Country Volkswagen today!

Question: What does a bad timing chain tensioner sound like?

Answer: Rattling Noise. The most infamous sign that your timing chain is about to fail is a rattling sound coming from the engine

Volkswagen’s Solution: Your local dealership has the right diagnostic tools to accurately determine what is the cause, ensuring that the issue gets fixed quickly and correctly. Schedule a service appointment at Low Country Volkswagen today!

Question: What is the cause of a bad timing chain?

Answer: 

  • Lack of Maintenance: One of the primary causes of timing chain failure in Volkswagen vehicles is a lack of regular maintenance. Routine oil changes and routine inspections are the best way to ensure the longevity and performance of the timing chain. Neglecting these maintenance tasks can result in the chain becoming dry, brittle, and prone to failure.
  • Poor Quality Oil: Low-quality or contaminated oil increases friction and wear on the timing chain components, leading to premature failure.
  • Tensioner and Guide Wear: Wear causes excessive slack, misalignment, and ultimately, chain failure.
  • Manufacturer Defects: While this is rare, manufacturing defects can also contribute to timing chain failure in Volkswagens. These defects may include faulty materials, design flaws, or poor-quality control during the manufacturing process.

Volkswagen’s Solution: Your local dealership has the right diagnostic tools to accurately determine the cause of your timing chain issues, including manufacturing errors. Schedule a service appointment at Low Country Volkswagen today!

Question: What are some common signs of a bad timing chain?

Answer: 

  • Check Engine Light: A malfunctioning timing chain can trigger the vehicle’s on-board diagnostic system, causing the check engine light to come on. The engine control unit (ECU) detects timing irregularities and generates a fault code, which our Volkswagen mechanics read using a diagnostic tool.
  • Engine Misfires: A failing timing chain can cause the engine to misfire. 
  • Engine Noise: A rattling or ticking sound from your engine may indicate a faulty timing chain. This noise can be particularly noticeable when you start or accelerate your vehicle and may become more pronounced as the chain further deteriorates.
  • Loss of Power and Performance: Timing chain failure can result in a loss of engine power and overall performance, causing sluggish acceleration, reduced throttle response, or difficulty reaching higher speeds.
  • Rough Idling: An engine with a failing timing chain may experience rough idling. This will look like uneven or fluctuating RPM (revolutions per minute).
  • Engine Stalling: In severe cases of timing chain failure, the engine may stall while driving or refuse to start completely.

Volkswagen’s Solution: If you’re experiencing any of these issues with your vehicle, visit your local Volkswagen dealership for expert service. Schedule a service appointment at Low Country Volkswagen today!

Question: Is it safe to drive with a bad timing chain tensioner?

Answer: No, we do not recommend driving if you are having issues with your timing chain tensioner. 

The specific duration you could drive before significant damage occurs varies, but it could be as little as a few miles to a few hundred miles, depending on the extent of the failure. Address these issues promptly to ensure the safety of your vehicle. 

If you happen to notice signs of timing chain failure while you’re driving, pull over safely and have the vehicle towed to your local VW dealer for proper repair. 

Question: Did any VW Tiguans recently have a recall?

Answer: Yes, there was a recall for VW Tiguans in late 2023 that applied to 261,257 Tiguan models from 2018-2019. The issue was related to the fuel tank activation module that may cause a fuel level sensor malfunction. 

Earlier in 2023, there was also a smaller recall for 2022 Tiguans regarding potentially defective side airbag modules.

You can see if your specific vehicle is under a recall by entering your VIN on Volkswagen’s recall lookup tool or the NHTSA website.

Does the Tiguan offer a good warranty?

Answer: Yes, the Tiguan–like all new Volkswagens–comes with the following protections:

  • New Vehicle Limited Warranty for 4 years or 50,000 miles 
  • Complimentary scheduled carefree maintenance for 2 years or 20,000 miles
  • VW Roadside Assistance is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

You can learn more about VW warranty coverage here:

To learn more about your Volkswagen warranty, click here. 

MORE VOLKSWAGEN QUESTIONS?

Where is the best Volkswagen service near me in Charleston, SC?

If you’re looking for the best Volkswagen service in Mount Pleasant, make Low Country Volkswagen’s Service Center your first choice! Our factory-trained technicians use state-of-the-art equipment to diagnose and repair your car’s issues to get you back on the road quickly.

How can I check recalls on my Volkswagen?

The best place to check for vehicle recalls is the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:

  • Visit NHTSA.gov/recalls
  • Select your state
  • Enter your vehicle’s license plate number
  • Search to learn whether your vehicle is subject to an open safety recall

What does the VW warranty not cover?

The Volkswagen warranty does not cover normal wear-and-tear, glass repair or replacement, tires, bumpers, or upholstery. In addition, environmental damage and car accidents are not covered by the warranty.

What voids a VW warranty?

Improper maintenance is the most common reason a VW warranty is voided. If you fail to properly maintain your vehicle, your warranty may be voided, and you will be responsible for all repairs. 

How do I find out if my VW is still under warranty?

Volkswagen warranty programs can vary from year to year. To learn more about your specific warranty:

  • Locate your owner’s manual.
  • Refer to your Warranty and Maintenance booklet or section.
  • If you don’t have an owner’s manual, order one through a local VW dealer or call Volkswagen of America’s toll-free number at 1-800-544-8021. You can also find maintenance, navigation, and sound system manuals here. 
  • Refer to the People First Warranty program if your VW is a newer model year.

If you have additional questions about your VW warranty, please give us a call at 843-881-8555.

 

SCHEDULE SERVICE & ORDER VOLKSWAGEN PARTS WITH LOW COUNTRY VOLKSWAGEN

For expert Volkswagen service, choose Low Country Volkswagen in Mount Pleasant! Our factory-certified technicians provide precise, efficient service at competitive rates. 

From routine maintenance to complex repairs, you can trust our team to keep your VW performing at its best. Book your appointment today and discover why Mount Pleasant drivers make us their first choice for service.

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