MK6 GTI 2.0T Timing Chains

The infamous 2.0T timing chains. Possibly one of the most embarrassing achiles heels of any VW out there.  In theory timing chains should be much more durable than a timing belt, however history has proven otherwise. We routinely see this generation TSI engine in the shop for this same problem, and often many are at just around 100k miles.  We are always quick to suggest a preventative timing chain job to our customers, which avoids additional damage and cost should they fail.  We want to share the following images with you so that you can see what happens when the timing chains / tensioners are neglected and the timing is able to get off even slightly.  This MK6 GTI has only 140k miles on it, and this was certainly not the most spectacular failure that we’ve seen, although ultimately the repair process is exactly the same.