Updated July 11, 2024
Many car components play a role in an engine’s operation. Timing chains are one of the items that keep it running the way it’s supposed to.
Located in the front of the engine, the timing chain keeps the camshaft and crankshaft running in correct timing. The crankshaft and camshaft ensure that the engine valves open.
Some cars use timing chains while others come with timing belts.
Wet belts can also be found on certain vehicles today. Instead of a chain, there’s a belt in the oiling system.
How to tell that a new timing chain is needed
Hearing sounds when starting the vehicle is one indicator of a timing chain problem.
The driver of a Mazda Miata, for example, brought their vehicle in when they heard a noise at certain revolutions. This symptom was caused by a variable valve timing sprocket, which had a broken pin.
A new timing chain was installed and special tools were used to make sure everything lined up properly.
Overtime, timing chains can become loose and create a rattling sound. Sometimes, a whining noise may be heard if the chain is rubbing against another component.
If something is wrong with the timing chain, it could trigger the check engine light.
A lot of the newer vehicles will have a cam sensor or multiple cam sensors. A cam correlation code or a camshaft crankshaft correlation code may appear. Depending on the car, you could have one code or several. This can occur if oil changes aren’t performed correctly or frequently.
Many vehicles rely on the timing chain running right and not stretching out. A worn timing chain can also impact cam phasers that move back and forth by oil pressure. So you may also receive cam phaser codes when the chain is bad.
If you do get a camshaft correlation code, one of the easiest things you can do is check your oil to make sure it isn’t low. Low oil can increase the wear of your timing chain components. Since the cam phasers and tensioners aren’t able to operate correctly if there isn’t enough oil, having the correct amount of oil could solve your problem.
Timing chain problems may also lead to engine misfires.
The camshaft can get out of time if the chain is stretched or one of the guides becomes broken or worn. As a result, the valves won’t open and close at the correct time, potentially causing a misfire.
Timing chain maintenance
A timing chain’s lifespan depends on the manufacturer. Some vehicles could have timing chain problems as early as 60,000 or 90,000 miles. Other cars can go 300,000 miles without seeing an issue.
However, just because they tend to last thousands of miles doesn’t mean they should be neglected.
Oil change maintenance is one of the biggest factors behind the timing chain’s lifespan.
If you aren’t having oil changes performed regularly – no matter what the manufacturer is – you are greatly increasing your chances of having problems.
Possible issues may also be discovered during oil changes, helping you avoid major repairs in the future.
HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located in Woodbridge, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.