Typical costs:
- Hiring a mechanic to replace a timing chain typically costs $300-$1,000, depending on the make and model of the vehicle, its age and whether the work is performed at a ...
- Purchased separately, a timing chain typically costs $50-$250 or more. ...
- Timing chains are often sold in kits which contain additional smaller parts that can be used in the repair. ...
How much does replacing a timing chain cost?
Replacing the timing chain is a complicated job, and the labor costs can be quite high. For most cars, a timing chain replacement costs between $413 and $1040, or you can order the parts themselves for $88 and $245. It is a tricky repair though, so unless you’re particularly skilled it’s usually best left to a mechanic.
When should I replace my timing chain?
Signs your timing chain needs to be replaced include:
- Your vehicle has a rough idle, meaning your engine shakes
- Your car backfires
- The vehicle seems to be working harder than normal
- Your car will not start at all, indicated a complete timing chain failure
When to replace the timing chain on your vehicle?
Timing chain replacement has three key benefits:
- Improvement in horsepower – Replacing the timing chain will help improve the car’s horsepower. ...
- Improved fuel economy – Changing the timing chain is also going to improve the gas mileage in your car. ...
- Reduce car repair costs – Timing chain replacement will also lead to lower repair costs for your car. ...
Do Toyota timing chains need to be replaced?
While a timing belt needs to be replaced around 60,000 miles, a timing chain does not need to be replaced unless there is a problem with it. This has a lot to do with the fact that it is inside of your Toyota Rav4 engine, and not outside of it which is where the timing belt is.
Is a timing chain worth replacing?
The Bottom Line. The timing chain is an essential component of any engine, and your car would be useless without it. If your timing chain breaks while you're driving, your vehicle's engine is likely to suffer catastrophic damage.
How long does it take to replace a timing chain?
5 to 8 hoursIn general, if the timing chain is replaced by a mechanic having all their replacement supplies and parts easily accessible, the job itself should not take more than 5 to 8 hours total. Again, it depends on the location of the job and accessibility of tools and supplies.
How much does it cost to replace timing chain and tensioner?
Typical costs may include Mechanic Repair Service and Car Parts cost. The average cost to replace timing chain tensioner is around US$1000 to US$1600. In which the service is around US$600 to US$1000 while aftermarket auto parts are estimated between US$450 and US$600.
Can you drive with a broken time chain?
If the timing chain were to break, it will jeopardize the entire internal combustion process. This means you won't be able to drive your vehicle anymore.
What are symptoms of timing chain Problems?
Signs of a Faulty Timing ChainRattling 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.
What causes a timing chain to break?
What causes a timing chain to break or wear? Over time, the timing chain stretches due to internal component wear. The chain tensioner or the guides that are connected to the timing chain may wear out as well, causing the timing chain to fail completely. If the chain fails, the vehicle will not run at all.
How many labor hours does it take to replace a timing chain?
5 to 8 hoursOverall, replacing the timing chain and its associated hardware should take a qualified mechanic 5 to 8 hours to complete.
Will check engine light come on for timing chain?
Check Engine Light is on A stretched timing chain contributes to poor engine performance and increased emissions, triggering the check engine light and the storing of a diagnostic trouble code. A mechanic will need to inspect the code and prescribe the necessary repairs.
What does a loose timing chain sound like?
A lax timing chain, or worse, a broken timing chain with loose parts within the engine, will produce a rattling sound when your car is idling. This rattling sound is typically most prominent while the engine heats up and disappears after some time.
Is there any warning before timing belt breaks?
There are some surefire warning signs you should look out for that could indicate that your timing belt is about to fail: this includes ticking noises, car not starting, piston misfires, exhaust smoke, excess vibrations and oil leaks.
What Is a Timing Chain?
The timing chain inside your engine connects the crankshaft to your camshafts. Camshafts open and close the intake and exhaust valves at precisely the correct time during the combustion process inside the cylinders. Overall, replacing the timing chain and its associated hardware should take a qualified mechanic 5 to 8 hours to complete.
What Does Replacing a Timing Chain Include?
Unlike a timing belt, it’s normally not the chain itself that wears out first, but the tensioners and guides that keep it in its proper position. The chain itself does wear, so all of these parts get replaced during this job. The sprockets on the crankshaft and camshafts also get replaced, since they wear along with the chain.
How Often to Replace the Timing Chain
Timing chains last a long time, which helps to offset the expense of replacing them. Depending on the engine, the timing chain (and related components) should be replaced roughly every 80,000 to 120,000 miles.
Related Maintenance Services
Basically, any component associated with the timing chain should get replaced at the same time. Exactly what components these are depends on the design of your engine. For example, if the timing chain also drives your water pump, it should be replaced along with the chain.
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How much does it cost to replace a timing chain?
Replacing the timing chain is a complicated job, and the labor costs can be quite high. For most cars, a timing chain replacement costs between $413 and $1040, or you can order the parts themselves for $88 and $245. It is a tricky repair though, so unless you’re particularly skilled it’s usually best left to a mechanic.
What is the job of replacing a timing chain?
Replacing the timing chain is a big job which will likely require multiple parts of the engine being disassembles and rebuilt. Before the main work starts the engine will be cleaned thoroughly with de-greaser. The mechanic will determine the firing order of the car.
How does a timing chain work?
The timing chain works as the connection between the camshaft and the crankshaft, and the main responsibility of the chain is to operate the inlet and exhaust valve gear during the stroke cycle of the piston. The chain keeps these valves opening and closing at specific intervals, helping the engine to function properly.
Why use timing chain?
The use of a timing chain helps reduce the likelihood of this happening as it’s designed to last much longer than the belt, so unless you’re buying a much older vehicle there should be less risk of major repairs in the future.
Is a timing belt more expensive than a timing chain?
Using a timing belt was usually more cost effective than using a timing chain, with the only cars opting for the chain being higher-end sports cars. Recently this trend has actually been in the opposite direction, with the timing chain taking over as the preferred option. A timing chain will need replaced far less frequently than a timing belt, ...
Can a timing belt cause a car to turn off?
Faulty timing belts can cause some serious damage to the engine if they’re not repaired, and in some cases it can completely disable the car. Manufacturers were being increasingly blamed for these problems, which has led many to make the switch from belt to chain.
Do timing chains need to be replaced?
A timing chain will need replaced far less frequently than a timing belt, resulting in a lower cost to maintain the car for the owner.
How long does it take to replace a timing chain?
Oftentimes, it’s going to take a mechanic between 4 and 6 hours to complete a timing chain replacement job from start to finish.
How long does a timing chain last?
Generally speaking, the average timing chain is built to last for somewhere between 80,000 and 120,000 miles. Once your timing chain reaches that point, you’re going to have to start thinking about the timing chain replacement cost. You might also have to think about it if you have problems with any of the parts that surround your timing chain.
What is a timing chain tensioner?
The timing chain tensioner ensures that your timing chain isn’t ever able to skip a single tooth on your camshaft gear. As long as your timing chain and everything that surrounds it is in good working order, you won’t have to worry about your intake and exhaust valves opening and closing at the correct times.
How long can you keep a car without a timing chain?
It’s not uncommon for people to keep cars for well over the 150,000-mile mark without ever having to pay the timing chain replacement cost.
Where is the timing chain located?
Well, a timing chain is located inside of your engine right behind what is called your timing cover. It’s connected to both your crankshaft timing gear and your camshaft timing gear and it remains tight at all times thanks to your timing chain tensioner. The timing chain is driven by a gear that is situated on your crankshaft, ...
Do mechanics need to check timing chain?
They’ll need to be sure a timing chain is doing its job properly prior to closing the hood on your car and sending it back in your direction. It’ll ensure that the timing of your timing chain ...
Can a bad timing chain cause engine failure?
A bad timing chain is not something that you should drive around with for any longer than you absolutely have to. There is a chance—and a good chance, really—that you could experience complete engine failure if you allow a bad timing chain to linger for too long.
What happens if your timing chain is broken?
If the timing chain is found to be broken, or the camshaft position is too far out of specification, the timing chain will require replacement to restore the vehicle to operating condition.
How does a timing chain work?
How does the Timing Chain work? The timing chain is installed on the engine, behind the timing cover. This chain is much like a thicker version of a bicycle chain, which meshes with the crankshaft timing gear and camshaft timing gear. It is held tight by the timing chain tensioner to ensure the chain is not able to skip a tooth, or 'jump time'.
What is the purpose of timing chain?
The timing chain connects the engine camshaft and engine crankshaft, and ensures that they maintain proper timing. Without the timing chain and timing gears that attach to the ends of the crankshaft and camshafts, the engine would not be able to turn synchronously, and would fail.
Why is the timing chain tensioner tight?
It is held tight by the timing chain tensioner to ensure the chain is not able to skip a tooth, or 'jump time'. The chain is driven by a gear on the crankshaft, which turns at the speed of the crankshaft at all times.
How are timing chain guides held in place?
Timing chain guides are typically held in place by pins or fasteners, and one end will typically be left to pivot freely with the timing chain. Once all components are removed, the timing components can be installed onto the engine, and the engine will be tested for proper operation and timing before additional components are replaced.
Can you drive a vehicle with a timing chain?
It is not recommended to drive a vehicle suspected of timing component damage. This can quickly result in complete engine failure as described above. If the timing chain has already broken, the engine will not start until the timing chain has been replaced.
Can you replace timing cover on water pump?
Since this service requires removal of the timing cover, it is recommended to replace all timing components, water pump, and front seals at the same time, unless they have been recently serviced. This is much more cost effective than returning for the same service after a partial service interval has elapsed.
Advantages
Cost
- Replacing the timing chain is a complicated job, and the labor costs can be quite high. For most cars, a timing chain replacement costs between $413 and $1040, or you can order the parts themselves for $88 and $245. It is a tricky repair though, so unless youre particularly skilled its usually best left to a mechanic. Below are some sample costs fo...
Operation
- The timing chain works as the connection between the camshaft and the crankshaft, and the main responsibility of the chain is to operate the inlet and exhaust valve gear during the stroke cycle of the piston. The chain keeps these valves opening and closing at specific intervals, helping the engine to function properly.
Use
- Until recently, the vast majority of cars were built to use a timing belt instead of a timing chain. Using a timing belt was usually more cost effective than using a timing chain, with the only cars opting for the chain being higher-end sports cars.
Future
- Recently this trend has actually been in the opposite direction, with the timing chain taking over as the preferred option. A timing chain will need replaced far less frequently than a timing belt, resulting in a lower cost to maintain the car for the owner.
Durability
- While a timing chain will usually last far longer than a timing belt, it will suffer from wear and tear and will need replaced at some point during the life cycle of the vehicle.
Issues
- Faulty timing belts can cause some serious damage to the engine if theyre not repaired, and in some cases it can completely disable the car. Manufacturers were being increasingly blamed for these problems, which has led many to make the switch from belt to chain. As a result, car owners need to more aware of what the timing chain is, how to spot a potential problem with it and how …
Causes
- There are usually a few signs that the timing chain on your car should be replaced, some more subtle than others. Poor fuel economy and occasional misfires could be caused by a timing chain issue, as could difficulty starting the car or the engine making a rattling sound regularly.
Diagnosis
- If you notice any unusual sounds from the engine or anything out of the ordinary then you should take the car to your mechanic. Theyll be able to diagnose the issue and if its a problem with the timing chain its best to have the replacement done fairly quickly.
Prevention
- The best way of saving money on timing chain replacement is to have the work done early before it causes any further damage to your engine. The cost of the replacement can be high, but its a mere fraction of what youd have to pay if it started causing problems with other parts of the engine.
Quotes
- Get a few quotes from garages in your area to see what you can expect to pay, and go with the place that offers a fair price and which has a good reputation. Quality work is every bit as important as saving money on your auto repair, so go with someone good who wont rip you off.