I've just changed the timing chain on my Polo and one reason is the different torque.
Reviews of OEM Volkswagen timing chain
88 votes
I have the seat equivalent - Ibiza ST (Fr spec) with the same engine, yes it's EA111, so keep an out for any signs of the timing chain stretching, however VW did do some what of a fix before introducing EA211. My 1.2 TSI EA111 has 95k miles on it and has never had the chain done and doesn't sound like there's any chain issues. But key is just service it every year properly and check the chain, you'll be fine then.
We have our 2017 Golf wagon which it getting long in the tooth...timing chain maintenance is coming up very soon... Plus all major fluid changes(DSG, haldex, brake, coolant, etc...), but it runs well.
Those Tiguans have a notorious timing chain issue, probably not worth it unless you have service record of that being addressed already.
2.5 motors can go 600k on original chains.
I have 2017 Tiguan and took it to the dealership for all the servicing. I have been having engine issues since Sept 2023. The timing chain was replaced and ever since my engine has been losing oil.
My Mk4 R32 Golf was the most reliable car I ever owned. (9 years)\u2026 until the timing chain snapped at 250,000 kms.
I also have 2017 Tiguan with 160,000 km. Just had mechanic check it as I heard rattling on startup and they recommended replacement.
After doing a complete OEM parts timing job my numbers were actually initially worse 7 and 8. After driving the car for 1 tank of gas the 209 number went slightly down to 4 and 208 stayed at 7, also 90 and 91 are still flip flopped.
I love the ea888 2.0 in my 2012 GLI, but aside from water pumps, I've been pretty lucky with mine (knock on wood). Have 143K miles. Timing chain is reaching too stretched point; oil leaks from cam bridge, etc
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What we know about OEM Volkswagen timing chain
The brand is registered in Germany. Official website: https://www.volkswagen.de/.
In March 2026, PartReview users have a mixed opinion of OEM Volkswagen timing chain.
PR Score — 56 out of 100, based on 27 reviews and 88 votes. 12 positive reviews, 7 neutral reviews, 8 negative reviews. Average rating — 3.1 (out of 5). Vote balance: 50 up, 38 down.
In the ranking of the best timing chain this part is at position 1 ahead of OEM BMW and OEM Audi.
Users also evaluated the qualities of OEM Volkswagen timing chain:
- Rattle - brief metallic rattle at cold start is noticeable - rated negatively. 2.4 points out of 5.
- Starting - hard starts or rough running can appear - rated negatively. 2.4 points out of 5.
- Warning light - check engine light may illuminate - rated ambivalently. 2.5 points out of 5.
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Timing chain OEM Volkswagen in comparisons
There are 3 comparisons of OEM Volkswagen timing chain with other manufacturers on PartReview.
In particular, see which timing chain are better: OEM Volkswagen or OEM FORD, OEM Audi or OEM Volkswagen, OEM BMW or OEM Volkswagen .