Fix Persistent Oil Leaks in Your VW with Camshaft Seal Replacement in Ann Arbor

Do you find yourself frequently adding oil to your car because the engine seems to be always low on oil? If yes, then you may need to check your Volkswagen camshaft seal. The camshaft in your VW is used to regulate the engine’s intake and exhaust valves to open and close at the right time. This movement is important for combustion and other activities of the engine.

The camshaft seal is an O ring made from rubber or silicone that is placed at the front or the rear of the camshaft where it goes through the cylinder head. It prevents engine oil from dripping while at the same time enabling the camshaft to turn without much hindrance. If this seal is not present, the oil will leak, cause inadequate lubrication, contaminate other components of the engine and damage the timing belt. Maintaining the camshaft seal is very important for your VW’s performance and reliability on the road.

Symptoms That Indicate That Your Volkswagen Camshaft Seal Requires Replacement

A bad camshaft seal may not show any symptoms in the beginning, but if ignored, the situation may result in problems with the engine. Here are some obvious symptoms that may indicate that the camshaft seal of your Volkswagen needs to be replaced:

• Burning Oil Smell: When there is a leak in the oil system, it can fall on hot parts of the engine and lead to a burning smell when you are driving. If you see black smoke or smell burnt oil, then you can be sure that oil has gotten to some hot parts like the exhaust.
• Oil Leaks Near the Timing Cover: Another clear indication that the camshaft seal is failing is the presence of oil stains around the timing cover. If you observe oil leakage on the garage floor at the front of the engine, then you might be having a bad camshaft seal.
• Timing Belt Problems: If the oil from the camshaft seal leaks, it may damage the timing belt by coating it, causing it to slip or deteriorate faster. This can cause poor engine timing and rough idling, misfires, and loss of power in the engine.
• Excessive Oil Consumption: If you notice that you are frequently refilling the oil but you do not see any spills on the ground, then your car may be leaking oil internally, and the camshaft seal may be the escape route.

How a VW Camshaft Seal Replacement Fixes the Issue

• Diagnosing the Leak: A qualified professional will physically examine your engine to identify the cause of the oil leakage. This step is important because other parts such as the valve cover gasket or crankshaft seal can also cause oil leakage.
• Removing the Old Seal: Since the camshaft seal is located behind the timing system, the technician will have to take off some parts before replacing the seal. This must be done carefully so as not to cause any harm to other components.
• Replacing the Camshaft Seal: A new camshaft seal of high quality and OEM standard is fitted to provide a perfect fit. An original Volkswagen seal is more effective in avoiding future leakage and increases the durability of the repair.
• Reassembly of the Timing Components: After the new seal has been fitted, the timing belt or chain is then replaced and set to the right tension. This helps to make sure that your engine keeps on running as you want it to.
• Final Inspection and Oil Top-Up: When the car is reassembled, the technician will check for signs of leakage, ensure the oil pressure is adequate and ensure all leaks are well sealed before delivering the car back to you.

Volkswagen cars need some level of expertise to be able to repair them effectively. It is always advisable to take your vehicle to a professional who has a deep understanding of the VW engine and its requirements.

Expert VW Camshaft Seal Replacement in Ann Arbor

If you have a feeling that your Volkswagen is losing oil from the engine, do not take it for granted otherwise it will get worse. At Orion Automotive Services, we are proud to offer you professional European auto repair services, and our mechanics know how to replace camshaft seals on Volkswagen vehicles. We are conveniently located in Ann Arbor and serve the surrounding communities. If you have excessive oil loss, low oil supply, or burning oil smell, then, it is high time you took your vehicle to a mechanic and get the camshaft seal checked and replaced. Give us a call today to book an appointment!