cam chain issues with mk6 09' golf tsi 1.4

[Schmitz]

I have just test driven the above car today and came to the conclusion that it was in really good condition etc, and was the car i wanted. Lots of prior research onto common faults of different golf models inc diesel vs petrol, and petrol would be better for me as short commute. When purchasing any car it is reasonable to assume some common faults. The one that seems to be cropping up time and time again is the the known fault with the cam chain on this model. To be honest I am a little panicky about proceeding with the sale now. I read somewhere that the replacement chain that vw uses has an extra link that would assure no re occurrence, can anyone confirm this?

I have taken the time to also mail the main dealer as this was a private garage and see if it can be checked. Ideally it has already been replaced, and hopefully if not there will be no slippage or slackness as i hear this is a sign it needs replacing. (sounded fine before and after test drive when at idle with bonnet open) not like there was an issue.

I have also read of other people having this issue. I suppose my question is how easily can the potential failure be recognised so i don't get myself into a whole world of financial trouble and need to replace the engine?

I wouldn't mind paying partly to replace this if necessary i am also considering an extended warranty. Warranty wise seem to be very comprehensive i have just asked the question wether this would be covered.


Sorry for the onslaught just that i am a young lad really and endeavour to protect myself from risk like this as i am not loaded!

Many thanks guys i appreciate any advice you could offer me.

[J400uk]

Simplest answer to this is to listen out for any rattles at startup, as this seems to be the best indicator of imminent chain problems.

You can protect yourself by taking out an extended warranty which will cover the cost of a repair should any problems arise in the future

[Schmitz]

thank you. I have emailed the warrenty direct to ask, is it likely the warrenty will cover a replacement cam chain assembly or just the resulting potential damage?

[J400uk]

You'd need to check the warranty paperwork

This is the key noise to listen out for - Golf 1.4 TSI Noisy engine sound. - YouTube

If it starts doing that it is much cheaper to fix now with a new chain/ tensioner compared to the cost of a whole new engine if it fails.

Also worth thoroughly checking the car's history to see if it's had any work done on the chain in the past since been an 09 it may already have had problems.

[Schmitz]

ok so other than receipts included with the documents how could this be determined you mean by like an aa vehicle check. thanks