Beetle Timing

This bulletin applies to 2008-2013 Volkswagen Beetle vehicles equipped with a 2.0L engine, where engine rattling noises are apparent after engine starting, or if the engine will not start. This may be due to a slipped timing chain.

DTC 00022 P0016 (crankshaft position vs. camshaft position correlation) and/or 00808 P0328 (knock sensor 1 circuit high input) may be stored in the ECM. Timing chain tension may be incorrect due to the tensioner, which can result in timing chain skip and contact between pistons and valves.

Complete the DTC entries according to guided fault finding (GFF).

Remove the lower timing chain cover.

Check the timing chain tensioner as follows:

• Compress the tensioning rail of the timing chain by hand against the timing chain tensioner.
• If the piston of the timing chain tensioner cannot be compressed by hand after several attempts, further engine diagnosis is required.
• If the piston of the tensioner can be compressed by hand, the timing chain tensioner has failed and further engine diagnosis may be required.
• If after replacement of the tensioner and timing has been checked following service manual specifications, and a no-start or engine noises remain, inspect the pistons and valves for contact damage. If engine damage is noted, the cylinder head and/or engine may need to be replaced.

That’s the VW factory advice…of course, if valve and/or piston damage is present, a reputable engine builder will be able to rebuild the head and/or short block assembly.