VW Timing Chain Tensioner - Genuine VW 021109507A

Product Information

An Engine Timing Chain Tensioner preloads the timing chain to prevent slack in the timing chain system. Too much chain slack will result in derailment of the timing chain which could cause engine failure. Engine timing chain tensioners are typically oil fed so it is vital to verify you have adequate oil volume and pressure when troubleshooting the timing chain tensioner. Common failure systems include chain rattle or slap on startup, or camshaft/crankshaft correlation fault codes.

• Rattling or Clanking Noise: One of the most common symptoms of a failing timing chain tensioner is a noticeable rattling, clanking, or ticking noise, especially on startup. This is because the tensioner may no longer be maintaining proper tension on the chain, causing it to become loose and hit surrounding components.
• Check Engine Light: A failing tensioner can cause timing issues that may trigger the vehicle’s check engine light. Common faults codes will correlate to a camshaft/ crankshaft fault as these sensors will detect that the timing is off.
• Valvetrain or piston damage: As the timing being off significantly enough in an interference engine can cause the valvetrain to come into contact with the piston surface

About Genuine VW

The Volkswagen Group, also known as “VAG”, consists of Volkswagen, Audi, Lamborghini, Bentley, Bugatti, Porsche, Ducati, MAN, Scania, SEAT, and Skoda. The original parts used by VW to build your car are available as replacement parts under the “Genuine VW” brand. Manufactured under the direction of VW, expect excellent quality and a premium price since these parts are available exclusively through the VW Dealership network.

You may not realize this, but the parts that make up your VW are not necessarily manufactured by VW. No cause for concern, as VW designs the part, hires a manufacturer, and ensures its quality to you. In fact, many of these manufacturers have been making parts for VW for decades. In our industry these manufacturers are called OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturers), and these are often brands you recognize, including Lemforder, ZF, Sachs, Bosch, Valeo, Zimmermann, Siemens VDO, Corteco, and more. Don’t be surprised to open that Genuine VW parts box and find an OEM branded part inside, simply with the addition of a VW logo.

Be sure to keep an eye out for OE tags on our product pages to quickly identify parts coming directly from OE manufacturers. That extra bit of insight could save you some serious money while shopping! Refer to our OE Academy for further information regarding the OE/OEM tags throughout the site.