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  • When to Replace Your Volkswagen’s Camshaft Seal

    Posted on August 22, 2024 by masterwpuser
    Volkswagen Engine Oil Leak

    Your Volkswagen’s engine is one of the essential parts of the vehicle. However, the engine depends on certain parts before it can work efficiently and a fault in any of these parts have certain effects on the engine performance. The camshaft seal, for example, has a direct effect on how the engine performs.

    The camshaft seal lies between the engine block and the camshaft and it prevents oil from leaking out of the engine. If this seal is broken for any reason, the engine is at risk of overheating and thus, failure. To prevent this, you need to perform routine maintenance and change the camshaft seal when necessary.

    How can you tell when your Volkswagen needs a camshaft seal replacement? Read on, as this easy to read guide provides the answers.

    Top Signs to Indicate the Need for a Camshaft Seal Replacement in a Volkswagen

    If your Volkswagen has a broken Camshaft seal, here are some signs you may notice;

    Oil leak from the engine

    This is one of the most obvious signs of damage to your car’s camshaft seal as its main function is to keep oil from getting out of the engine. However, if you start to see oil leaks from your engine area, then you can tell that the seal is probably damaged. You may need a physical inspection to confirm this.

    “Check Engine” Light Comes on

    The “check engine” light on your dashboard works to notify you of any anomaly with the engine system in your car. Hence, it is highly likely that this light comes on if there is a problem with the camshaft seal which can directly affect the engine performance. While this is not the only reason why this light turns on, you should check it out before you decide.

    Engine overheating

    This is both an implication and a sign of a broken camshaft seal and you need to pay attention once your engine gets to this stage. Engine oil plays a necessary role in keeping the engine’s temperature down. However, if your engine loses oil, which will happen with a damaged seal, the engine can begin to heat up. If you do not manage this well, then you could lose your Volkswagen’s engine.

    Smoke/Burning Odor

    Another sign that can indicate a broken camshaft seal or leaking oil in your Volkswagen is when you begin to notice a burning odor coming from the engine area or you see smoke. If oil escapes from the engine, it could land on heated metal parts in the engine area. This results in the oil getting heated up, giving off a burning smell.

    When You Should Replace Your Volkswagen’s Camshaft Seal

    The great thing about most car issues is that you can replace broken or damaged parts and you can get your car functioning again. Here are 3 ways to recognize that it’s time for a camshaft seal replacement.

    1. Signs of Damage

    If you notice any of the above-mentioned signs of a broken seal in your car’s engine areas, then it is time for a change. You would need to contact a professional for confirmation and so you can have everything done right.

    2. Mileage

    You do not have to wait till you start to notice signs of a fault or a broken seal before you look for a replacement. Many car parts, including the camshaft seal, weaken with continuous use. Hence, one way or another, the seal will lose its function. Hence, it is recommended that you replace your Volkswagen’s camshaft after every 80,000 miles to avoid engine problems.

    3. Reduced Engine Performance

    If you notice that your engine struggles to run, which was not an issue before, then it could be time to change some of its parts, including the camshaft and its seal. You should speak to your mechanic about what you suspect so they can take the necessary steps.

    Volkswagen Camshaft Seal

    Mill Valley’s Leading Auto Repair Shop for European Vehicles

    To get the best out of your Volkswagen, you should ensure that you only turn to qualified mechanics for repairs and replacements. Any error in a repair or replacement work can cause serious engine issues which you want to avoid.

    Masters European & Japanese Auto Repair is one of the leading automobile repair shops in Mill Valley and we have been providing quality repair services since 1978. Our shop is open to European and Japanese car owners in Corte Madera, Larkspur, Sausalito, and Tiburon.

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