Oil and chain quality has improved, which means replacement periods can potentially go beyond that
10-year/200,000km
manufacturer's lifespan, meaning owners have reduced routine servicing costs over that time.
How much does it cost to fix a drive chain?
The Best in Auto Repair
The average cost for timing chain replacement is
between $1,624 and $1,879
. Labor costs are estimated between $957 and $1,207 while parts are priced between $667 and $672. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific vehicle or unique location.
Do chain driven cars need changing?
Normally the timing chain will be designed to last a car's lifetime, and
will not need to be replaced at a recommended service interval
. In some cases, despite not needing regular maintenance, a timing chain can wear to the point that it has to be replaced.
What happens if timing chain breaks while driving?
A broken timing chain will
cause an engine to not start or fail while driving
. If the belt is already broken, the engine won't have enough compression to start. If it breaks or jumps while driving, the pistons will be damaged from contact with the valves. The valves themselves will bend and potentially ruin the engine.
Is timing belt or chain better?
Most automakers recommend replacing the timing belt every 60,000 to 105,000 miles.
Timing chains are heavier and more complex than timing belts
, but they also last much longer. Really, unless there's a problem, timing chains don't have a replacement interval.
What is a timing chain replacement cost?
Timing chain replacement can cost
between $413 and $1,040
. The cost is high due to the complicated nature of replacing this part. If you want to DIY a timing chain replacement, the parts will cost $88 to $245. However, this is a task best left to those with ample experience working on cars.
What are the symptoms of a loose timing chain?
- Rattling Sound on Starting the Engine or Idling. A common finding in a vehicle with a bad timing chain is unusual rattling noise when the engine is started or when brakes are engaged. …
- Misfiring Engine. …
- Contaminated Engine Oil. …
- Check Engine Light. …
- Inability to Start the Engine.
Can you replace timing chain yourself?
You may find the need to replace your timing chain at some point; however with the right tools, a service manual and some mechanical know-how,
you can do it yourself
. Just be aware that this is a major job and can have serious consequences for your engine if done incorrectly.
How long does it take to fix a timing chain?
Overall, replacing the timing chain and its associated hardware should take a qualified mechanic
5 to 8 hours
to complete.
Is it worth fixing a timing chain?
A timing chain doesn't need to be replaced unless there is a problem with it
. Is the timing chain immune to mechanical failures? The simple answer is No, it is not. Timing chain problems are not uncommon, especially in high-mileage vehicles.
Can low oil cause timing chain to break?
A low oil level can also cause timing chain stretch
. In a chain with metal gears, heat and friction can occur when it is not properly lubricated. A chain that is starved of lubrication can stretch as well as become too low in oil.
Do timing chains go bad?
Since
the timing chain can go bad
and will need to be replaced, it is important to be able to recognize the symptoms and have it repaired before it fails completely. Signs a timing chain needs to be replaced include: Later model VVT applications will generate engine codes and check engine lights prior to engine rattle.
Can you fix a broken timing chain?
Replacing the timing chain is a fairly extensive and costly repair because the mechanic will need to talk apart the engine in order to replace the part
. Additionally, most mechanics will recommend that the water pump also be replaced since it is much easier to do it when the engine is has already been taken apart.
What does a worn timing chain sound like?
Listen for
a metallic sound that resembles a rattling or scrapping noise
. The sound can be intermittent or constant, but it will be a metal to metal contact. Such a noise will reveal a loose timing chain hitting the inside of the timing chain cover every time it rotates. You might also hear a metallic slapping noise.
How do you check a timing chain?
To accurately identify the amount of wear in a timing chain, begin by removing all of the spark plugs and the distributor cap. With a wrench on the harmonic balancer bolt, turn the crankshaft at least two complete revolutions backward of rotation to remove any slack from the timing chain.
When did BMW fix timing chain?
In
January 2015
, BMW redesigned the timing chain components, which seems to have significantly reduced the chance of failure.
Do I have a Cambelt or chain?
In order to tell if your car has a timing belt or a timing chain the first thing you need to do is inspect your engine.
Check the side of your engine, and if it has a tinplate or plastic cover, then you've got a timing belt
. If your engine has neither of those, then it has a timing chain.
Do you have to remove engine to replace timing chain?
Do You Need To Remove Engine To Change Timing Chain?
You will need to disassemble and reassemble different parts of your engine when you change the timing chain
. In order to determine the timing chain of your automobile, you'll need your owner's manual.
Will thicker oil stop timing chain noise?
It is pretty normal to hear a ticking noise during startup. If there is no driveability issues I wouldn't worry about it. Its cost around 1000 to 1500 to fix a timing chain.
You could try using a thicker oil like 10W40 to reduce the noise
.
How much does it cost to replace timing chain tensioner?
Timing Chain Tensioner Replacement Cost – RepairPal Estimate. The average cost for timing chain tensioner replacement is
between $1,050 and $1,230
. Labor costs are estimated between $679 and $856 while parts are priced between $371 and $374.
How do you diagnose timing chain Problems?
- Engine misfires or runs poorly. …
- Metal shavings found in the oil. …
- Engine won't start or fails. …
- Check Engine Light is on. …
- Engine rattles while idling.
What tools do I need to change a timing chain?
- Socket set.
- Torque wrench.
- Combination wrenches.
- Screwdrivers.
- Drain pan.
- Antifreeze.
- Jack and jack stands.
How long will a stretched timing chain last?
However, it should last
well over 100,000 miles
. On some occasions, timing chains tend to stretch or break over time, so if your car is exhibiting any of the following symptoms, then it could need a new one: Poor engine performance.
