Tips to Identify Camshaft Tensioner Leaks in Your Audi From Certified Mechanics in Dallas

Audi vehicles are known for setting and exceeding performance standards. These qualities, matched with a sleek exterior and luxury interior design, means that Audi is one of the best all-inclusive vehicles around.

To ensure that your Audi remains this way, proper maintenance needs to be routinely completed. Even when you stick to a maintenance schedule, there will be times where parts unexpectedly need attention. One such part is the camshaft tensioner.

The major issue that is seen with the camshaft tensioner is a leak. Continue reading to find out more information about the camshaft tensioner, how to identify if a leak is occurring, and where to go to have the camshaft tensioner leak fixed.

The Function of the Camshaft Tensioner

The camshaft tensioner, also known as the timing belt tensioner, is responsible for keeping the appropriate amount of tension on the cambelt or timing belt. The cambelt is responsible for synchronizing the camshaft and the crankshaft.

Accurate synchronization of these two systems needs to be in place for the engine valves to open and close at the proper times. To maintain the appropriate level of tension, the camshaft tensioner requires fluid and lubrication to ensure its connected parts run smoothly. If the camshaft tensioner is faulty with a leak, then the engine of your Audi is not going to function in the optimal condition that you are used to.

Tips to Identify Camshaft Tensioner Leaks

Every part of your Audi needs to work together so the performance level remains high. This cannot happen if the camshaft tensioner leaks.

A leak in the camshaft tensioner is the most common repair that needs to be addressed when it comes to the camshaft tensioner. The leak is most likely going to come from the camshaft seal. To be able to identify a camshaft tensioner leak, there are a few tips and signs to be aware of that will point you in the direction of the leak.

Noises

The first tip and sign of a camshaft tensioner leak is loud clicking or grinding sounds. When a leak has occurred, the camshaft tensioner is not able to maintain the proper amount of fluid on the cambelt. This leads to the loosening of the cambelt. When the cambelt is loose, it will cause vibrations to occur underneath the hood. With these vibrations comes irregularity in the opening and closing of the engine valves. So, clicking or grindings sounds will be heard both while you are driving and while you are idle.

Acceleration Problems

The second tip and sign to look for when it comes to a leak in the camshaft tensioner is problems with accelerating. Without the necessary lubrication that the camshaft tensioner provides, the cambelt can stretch or snap. This wearing of the cambelt means that there is no longer control over the engine valve opening and closing.

As previously mentioned, these valves need to be in perfect synchronization to ensure optimal performance. When this synchronization does not happen, you will feel your Audi hesitate as you are stepping on the gas pedal. Then you will know that there is a leak in the camshaft tensioner.

Warning Sensor

One last sign and tip you should be aware of when it comes to a camshaft tensioner leak is the illumination of the check engine light. Your Audi has a very sophisticated computer system to monitor your vehicle’s components. When one of the sensors indicates an issue, the computer alerts the driver via one of the lights on the dashboard.

As there are many different components under the hood, it is not practical to have a light on the dashboard for all these systems. The check engine light does that job, so when there is a leak detected in the camshaft tensioner, this light illuminates.

Fixing a Camshaft Tensioner Leak

Now that you know the signs and tips to be aware of when it comes to a camshaft tensioner leak, the next thing you need to know is where to go to have the leaked fix.

At European Service Center in Dallas, TX, we have expert-trained and certified mechanics that will efficiently diagnose and repair your Audi’s camshaft tensioner leak. The latest tools and parts are used to ensure that the camshaft tensioner leak is fixed quickly and correctly. You will be back on the road with your Audi in optimal condition with confidence to drive safely again. Call us today for an appointment.