TFSI Timing Chain Stretch
SeriousEngineEarly small-capacity TFSI engines use chain drives that can rattle and jump timing.
Most affected: 1.2 TFSI, 1.4 TFSI
Estimated cost: £600–£1,200Affects: 2010–2014Often appears around: 35k-80k miles
Typical symptoms
- •Cold-start rattle
- •Poor starting
- •Engine light or cam timing fault
What to inspect before you buy
- ✓Insist on a cold start
- ✓Look for updated chain/tensioner invoices
- ✓Avoid sellers who dismiss the rattle as normal