Originally Posted By: rooflessVW
Listen for chain rattle. In VERY rare instances you will need to replace the upper chain and tensioner. Fairly inexpensive and easy fix.
Uhh, from what I understand the transmission has to be dropped in order to get to those. Not exactly easy, I wouldn't think. I think the most common years for that problem is 2005.5-2007 engines.
But I think the 2.5 is a great engine, I don't feel it's as doggy as people make it out to be. As said before the vacuum pump likes to leak, but doesn't effect anything besides a dirty undercarriage. I think mines been leaking for 20K miles, I just clean it off at every oil change. The top fluid filled motor mount seems to be an issue as well. They make aftermarket replacements (Black Forest Industries has a complete kit) to take care of that.