In 1996, the Audi A4 was only available with a 2.8-liter V6 engine. In 1997, Audi added the option of a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, mainly in the sedan model. This article is going to deal with 1997 to 2000 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engines only. The camshaft position sensor is vital to engine timing and emissions. Although replacing the camshaft position sensor is a challenging task, with the correct tools, competent directions and about two hours, a home mechanic should be able to do it.
Disconnect the battery by loosening the negative batter cable clamp. You can use a small wrench to do this.
Locate all engine accessory belts and remove them. Use you will need to loosen certain accessories to relieve tension on the belts.
Locate all engine covers and upper timing belt cover. Remove these, using a ratchet.
Rotate the crankshaft clockwise until cylinder No. 1 is at top dead center. Use a long handle ratchet and socket.
Release the tension on the timing belt. You will need to use the TORX wrench T45 to accomplish this.
Remove the timing belt by pressing down on the tensioner. Rotate the tensioner toward the front of the vehicle by taking out the TORX boltm using the TORX wrench.
Loosen all valve cover bolts with a ratchet and remove them. Slowly pull the valve cover off of the engine and set it aside.
Locate the camshaft gear. This gear is going to need to come off, but you will need to use a special tool to hold it in place. Use a retainer tool No. 3036 to remove the retaining bolt from the gear and then pull the gear off.
Locate the position sensor on the camshaft and remove it, using a wrench. There should be two bolts holding it in place.
Replace the position sensor and tighten the bolts with a wrench.
Reattach the camshaft gear and tighten the retaining bolt with a ratchet and socket.
Reinstall the valve cover. Be sure to use a new gasket. Tighten all valve cover bolts with a ratchet and socket.
Reposition the timing belt tensioner and reinstall the timing belt. Use the TORX wrench to tighten the tensioner.
Reattach all engine and timing covers. Tighten the retainers with a ratchet. Locate all accessory belts and reinstall them. Make sure all belts are properly tensioned.
Reconnect the negative battery cable and tighten the clamp with a wrench. Run the engine and check for proper operation.
