When Should You Replace Volkswagen’s Camshaft Seal?

The camshaft seal in a Volkswagen vehicle is a small oil seal that prevents oil from leaking out of the engine as the camshaft rotates. This provides proper lubrication to the camshaft and prevents oil contamination by keeping dirt and debris out of the shaft chamber. With its sealing properties, it also maintains the negative pressure. A camshaft without any issues can last up to 80,000 miles in a Volkswagen; however, multiple factors can prompt the seal to be replaced prematurely.

As a Volkswagen owner, it’s essential to recognize the warning signs of a camshaft seal malfunction so you can address the issue promptly. In Thousand Oaks, Bavarian Performance Specialists is the premier German auto service shop, offering German car repairs since 1983. Here is what our expert technicians say about when to replace the camshaft seal in your Volkswagen.

Signs That Your Volkswagen Needs Camshaft Seal Replacement

Oil Leaks & Puddles

As the camshaft seals and retains oil, the first and most obvious sign of its malfunction is an oil leak. You will find fresh, dark engine oil leaking from the front or side of the engine, often near the timing cover or valve cover, as the camshaft seal is usually positioned prominently in these areas. When the camshaft seal degrades, oil can leak and create oil puddles under your vehicle. Chances are, if you’re seeing puddles, the leak is likely getting bigger. When in doubt, get it checked out!

Engine Bay Sludge Accumulation

Another place where leaked engine oil accumulates is the engine bay. If you notice oil residues, streaks, or greasy buildup around the camshaft seal in the engine bay, it may indicate a minor leak or one that’s forming.

Burning Oil Smell

When the oil leaks from the camshaft, it drips onto the hot engine and its surrounding components. There, the oil is burned, producing the characteristic burning oil smell. The smell often sneaks into the cabin, especially when the vehicle is stopped at a red light or after a drive. On top of that, burnt oil chars form a carbon deposit that later clogs the crucial engine pathway. If left unchecked, it could cause significant engine damage.

Smoke from The Engine Bay

When engine oil drops onto a hot engine, it instantly burns. During this process, an ample amount of smoke is produced, which escapes through the engine bay. A burning oil smell always accompanies the smoke.

Lower Level of Engine Oil

When the engine oil leaks continuously due to a damaged camshaft seal, the oil level decreases. This also reduces oil pressure, which indicates the oil level. When oil pressure is low, the vehicle’s dashboard activates the low oil level indicator, notifying the driver. On top of that, if you find yourself adding more oil than usual to the Volkswagen, even if the indicator hasn’t been triggered, you should check the vehicle for leaks.

Timing Chain Degradation

If the camshaft seal is placed near the timing belt or chain, the leaked oil residue from the damaged seal lands on the belt or chain. The timing belt’s rubber is not designed to withstand the onslaught of hot, leaked oil, and it degrades as a result. This is an invisible sign of the oil leak due to seal degradation. However, if you’re conducting a timing belt/chain service, then this sign is witnessed, and the malfunction is identified.

Since the camshaft seal is made of rubber, constant heat cycling can degrade it. Improper installation is another cause of the camshaft seal malfunction. Heat and pressure resulting from engine damage are also causes of the seal malfunction. The repair involves replacing the damaged seal with a high-quality new one.

Camshaft Seal Replacement Services at Bavarian Performance Specialists in Thousand Oaks

If you witness any one or more than one of these above signs in your Volkswagen near Thousand Oaks, then visit Bavarian Performance Specialists for a proper camshaft seal replacement. We at Bavarian Performance Specialists are the premier auto service shop for German vehicles, employing trained, expert technicians who have worked exclusively with German models like Volkswagen. This expertise ensures you receive the best repair and maintenance service in Thousand Oaks.

Our technicians and their work give us the confidence to offer you a 24-month/24,000-mile nationwide warranty on any repair and service we provide. Operating from Thousand Oaks, we at Bavarian Performance Specialist have been providing services to German auto owners in Thousand Oaks and its surrounding areas, including Agoura Hills, Malibu, Newbury Park, Westlake Village, and Conejo Valley, since 1983.