AKE Lever Arm Failure: Causes & Solutions

I am looking for an Audi Avant Quattro with an AKE engine (V6 TDI 180 hp).
During my search, I've already come across five cars with engine damage (a broken rocker arm). Is this a common problem with AKE and AFB engines?

What exactly breaks when a rocker arm fails?

Should these things be replaced preventatively? How much effort is involved in replacing them?

Hello,

Since no one else wants to share their (limited) knowledge about this topic, I'll try to start a discussion. Unfortunately, it's only based on my limited understanding.

'Nothing is likely to break down immediately. The affected valve no longer opens.'
'The only question is, where is that fragment wandering around?'
It can be easily checked with a visual inspection once the valve cover is removed.

Since this seems to happen frequently, there should now be a new generation of tilt levers available.
It's likely better quality. You might be able to identify it by the part number. It would probably be difficult to find out for sure with Audi, because that would expose a weakness. And generally, people don't like doing that.

Best regards, KAi.