How a Leaking Camshaft Tensioner Can Throw Off Your Audi’s Timing

Does your Audi produce a ticking noise or have any issues with acceleration? If so, then you should look at the camshaft tensioner for any signs of leakage. A camshaft tensioner is an important part of your car’s engine because it helps to keep the timing in check, and makes sure that the timing belt or chain has the right amount of tension to help the camshaft and crankshaft perform their functions well. As soon as the camshaft tensioner starts to wear out, it will not be able to perform its function as it used to. This leads to slack in the timing system, which might disrupt the engine timing and result in severe performance issues.

How a Leaking Camshaft Tensioner Affects Your Audi’s Timing

• Loss of Timing Belt Tension: When the camshaft tensioner begins to leak, hydraulic pressure inside the tensioner decreases and the tension is lost. This can result in a loose timing belt or chain that may come off or cause inconsistent timing in the engine.
• Engine Performance Issues: A properly functioning camshaft tensioner makes sure that the engine’s intake, as well as the exhaust valve, open and close at the correct time. If the tensioner is leaking and cannot hold the timing chain tight, the valves may open at the wrong time. This can lead to rough running at idle or even slow acceleration of your vehicle.
• More Wear on the Timing Components: If the timing belt or chain is not kept at the right tension, more stress is put on other parts and components of the engine. The belt or chain may wear out faster, and various parts such as the camshaft gears, crankshaft pulley and other parts associated with the timing mechanism may wear faster as well.
• Failure of Timing Belt or Chain: If the camshaft tensioner keeps leaking and reaches a point where it no longer holds the timing belt or chain properly, then the belt/chain can completely slip off. In the worst-case scenario, the belt or chain could break, causing the valves and pistons to crash within the engine. This kind of internal engine damage is very expensive to fix and may even need a complete overhaul or even replacement.

How to Repair a Leaking Camshaft Tensioner in Your Audi

• Check For Leakage: Prior to replacing the camshaft tensioner, you should ensure that it is actually leaking. A mechanic will usually check for oil leaks around the housing of the tensioner. They may also look at the oil level since a leaking tensioner would mean that the engine would lose oil over time. If there is any sign of oil on top of the timing cover or around the engine block, then the culprit is probably the camshaft tensioner.
• Camshaft Tensioner Failure: If the camshaft tensioner is leaking, then the best approach is to change the old one with a new one. This involves the timing belt or chain being taken out, the old tensioner being pulled out, and a new one put in place. When replacing the tensioner, it is always best to use a high-quality or original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part to ensure a right fit and to avoid future problems. A professional mechanic will also look at other related parts such as the belt, pulleys and the guides to ensure they are in good condition.
• Replace the Timing Belt: If you have been operating your Audi’s timing belt or chain with a faulty tensioner, the belt or chain might have been damaged in the process. It is recommended to replace the timing belt/chain and the camshaft tensioner at the same time.

Let Our Certified Mechanics Attend To Your Audi Needs Properly

If your Audi has developed some timing problems as a result of a leaking camshaft tensioner, you need a trained mechanic to fix the problem. Protech Automotive Services is based in Johnston, RI, and we are experts in diagnosing and repairing Audi engine issues such as timing system failure. Our experienced technicians are well-trained with Audi models and use genuine spare parts to guarantee long lasting fixes.

Since 2010, we have been assisting the drivers from Johnston, Cranston, Smithfield, East Greenwich, North Providence, and Warwick, helping maintain their cars in proper manner. If your Audi requires a camshaft tensioner replacement, timing belt replacement, or any other engine check, we are ready to help you with that. Do not let a small problem develop into a huge disaster, such as a complete failure of the engine—call us and fix your Audi right away.

* Audi Q8 Quattro Car image credit goes to: photosvit.