mkongsiri

It looks like my V6 3.2 FSI engine has a failed chain tensioner (loud rattling). I've ordered a set of upper tensioners for both banks and will attempt to replace them when the parts arrive.

I've read on other forums that the tensioner failure is common on these engines. I'd like to try just changing just the upper tensioners as Im not looking forward to pulling the engine without a lift to do all the chains. Has anyone on this forum attempted this?

mill3241

I think I'm having the same issue as you. Please let me know how it goes if you do attempt to fix.
Also, where did you buy tensioners and how much?

mkongsiri

I ordered them from partsgeek.com

Parts Ordered
2005 Audi A6 Quattro Timing Chain Tensioner Engine Mechanical Price: $218.98 Core: $0.00 Extended Warranty: $0.00 Qty: 1 Part #: W0133-1773921

2005 Audi A6 Quattro Timing Chain Tensioner Engine Mechanical Price: $171.98 Core: $0.00 Extended Warranty: $0.00 Qty: 1 Part #: W0133-1773922

I haven't been able to find anyone that has posted anything remotely usefull on this topic besides a few pictures and that it has to be a $8k engine pull ordeal. I'm not interested in replacing the lower chains so will post pictures when I tear into this.

newa6er

How do you know it's an upper tensioner? If you have access to a VAG-COM you can diagnose which tensioner is bad. I have been fortunate to not have any experience with the tensioners. I have read that the only tensioner that you can change with the motor in the car is the upper L & R on the 3.2. The motor has to come out to do anything on the 4.2. You will need to buy or rent a locking tool to keep everything in place while swap out the tensioner. Good Luck.

mkongsiri

I can pretty clearly hear where it's coming from. Furthermore, lets look at this logically. If I replace both the upper tensioners and it resolves it then great. If it's the lower guides/tensioners then the motor has to come out anyway. If I'm replacing 1 tensioner, I'm going to do both. I've been working on Porsche/BMW engines since the early 80's. I've run across many failed chain tensioners, I'm not sweating too hard about this. I've ordered the Ross-tech vagcom but I have no intention of waiting, they're getting swapped.

justincr250

Maybe do a write up on this to help us less skilled, please!!

mkongsiri

Yea, that's the plan. I'll see if I can shoot some video and put it up on youtube too. Parts get here next Monday, so I'll probably work on it Tuesday.

Luis A.

Hey, I think I have the same issue on my 2008 with 80k miles. Loud rattling that lasts around a second or two upon startup.

I did a lot of work on my '98 A6, including timing belt but have done nothing major on this one. I have VAGCOM and the audi online service manual but would still love to see how it went for you.

mkongsiri

I'm almost done with it, just waiting for the freezing 45 degree weather in Florida to pass! 70 degrees friday! I've documented the whole process, tools needed, parts etc. Have video too.

Luis A.

Awesome! Look forward to it. Did only changing the upper tensioners resolve the noise?