Misaligned Engine Mounts: Causes & Fixes

Hello,

I recently had the timing belt replaced on my Golf IV TDI (ALH). Now, it sounds strange to me, sometimes rumbling or droning. I initially thought it might be the exhaust, but then I read something about "rough running" in some error databases, which suggests poorly adjusted engine mounts.

So, I checked my car and noticed that the engine mount on the timing belt side isn't perfectly parallel to the motor bracket (on the engine block), which means the engine is actually slightly tilted in the engine bay: (The engine, located on the passenger side, is shifted a bit further in the direction of travel).
I'm not sure if the noises are coming from there - at least the motor mount isn't touching the body. I can't say yet what it looks like on the driver's side; I need to remove the air filter housing first. This bearing shouldn't have been touched during the timing belt replacement.

Therefore, I'm not entirely clear on how the motor could have been installed incorrectly.

Should I complain about this, or is it too petty?

Hello,

The aggregate holder on the timing belt side must be removed during a timing belt replacement. Incorrect adjustment will likely cause stress in the exhaust system. This is why you hear a humming noise (a rough engine running sounds different).
I would definitely complain about that.
When assembling the motor bearing, it is extremely important to strictly adhere to the correct sequence during installation and removal. Otherwise, some threads may come loose or become severely damaged. Also, pay attention to this (which is naturally difficult to see when the unit is installed).

By the way, thank you. You're one of the few who understand how to search in the forum.

I once had a case where a 'specialized workshop' improperly removed the flat pulley on the crankshaft during a timing belt replacement. Due to excessive force applied to this pulley, it was slightly bent. This caused an unpleasant humming noise inside the car.

First of all, thank you to both of you.

I reviewed everything again over the weekend.
The motor mount is not perfectly parallel to the motor bracket (which is attached to the engine block). However, over a length of about 10 cm, the deviation might be only 5mm. Maybe I'm making a mountain out of a molehill, or do even such small deviations cause stress? In any case, the bodywork isn't being touched.

Another point that concerns me is the upper timing belt cover. I was investigating some noises (a humming sound) and discovered that the high-pressure pump rotor was rubbing or "sawing" against the plastic cover.
The cover seems to fit in the upper section, but in the lower part, it rests on another timing belt cover made of metal.
Since the (upper) plastic cover was properly installed, the insufficient clearance to the ESP wheel can likely only be caused by a misplaced metal plate. It seems that this plate is also very close to the pulley in the lower area, and it looks like they might be touching. I believe it's held in place with just one screw, which is currently tightened.
When you're already taking something to a specialized workshop...

Should I complain about this, or is there nothing to worry about? I feel a bit awkward about going back there.