VW has encountered a problem with the FSI camshaft and cam follower that could lead to damage to your engine's cylinder head.
This small part can play quite a big role in your engine's well-being. It conveys the movement of your camshaft into power for the high pressure fuel pump by riding directly on the camshaft lobe.
If it becomes worn to the point of breaking it can cause permanent damage to the camshaft, fuel pump, or both. It could also send metal particles into your cylinder head which can cause damage to moving parts. Without replacement, it is common for followers to have holes worn through them.
Replacing this follower as a form of preventative maintenance can save you from spending even more money and time replacing your fuel pump or camshaft from damage caused by a worn follower.
VW Central recommends checking your cam follower:
- every 8-15k kilometers on highly modified cars
- every 30-50k kilometers on stock cars
* This part is designed for the FSI engine only. This can easily be found on the engine cover of your 2.0T VW/Audi. It will clearly be stamped FSI (not TFSI).