What does a bad cam chain tensioner 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.
Does a belt tensioner make noise?
1. Grinding or squeaking noise from the belts or tensioner. The most common symptom of a bad or failing drive belt tensioner is noise from the belts or tensioner. If the tensioner is loose the belts may squeak or squeal, especially when the engine is first started.
Is it safe to drive with a bad belt tensioner?
Driving with a bad belt tensioner is unsafe since the tensioner is meant to guarantee ample tension that powers accessories. Wear on the belt tensioner will eventually cause the belt to slip, generate loud noise, and also create an unsafe level of heat along the accessory pulleys.
How much does it cost to replace a cam chain tensioner?
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.
What does a bad serpentine belt tensioner sound like?
One of the most common symptom of a bad or failing drive belt tensioner is noise from the belts or tensioner. If the tensioner is loose the belts may squeak or squeal, especially when the engine is first started.
What causes the tensioner pulley to squeak?
If the tension is too low, the belt will wobble and won’t have enough friction to drive the pulleys it’s running on. If this is the case, the engine belt will slip on the pulley causing the annoying squealing noise you hate. The auto belt tensioner is a spring loaded arm with a pulley on the end.
How long will a bad belt tensioner last?
How long does a belt tensioner last? It’s always best to check your owner’s manual to find out exactly how long your particular timing belt’s last but it’s worth noting that in general they are expected to last between 60,000 miles and 100,000 miles.
How much does it cost to replace a belt tensioner?
To get the belt tensioner replaced, you will pay anywhere from $140 to almost $400. The price of parts and labor varies from one car to the next, with most labor costs coming in at about $70 or $80.
What does a loose belt tensioner sound like?
If the drive belt noise resembles a squeal or a squeak, it is possible that the belt tensioner is loose. This is especially the case when starting the engine first thing in the morning. Since the tensioner is not able to maintain the correct tension on the belts, it produces a squealing or squeaking sound.
How can you tell if a timing belt tensioner is bad?
Check the pulley alignment inside the engine compartment. The tensioner or another belt, such as the alternator, may not be aligned properly with the belt. Replace the pulleys as needed so the belt runs smoothly. Also, make sure the belt is tight enough so it runs smoothly over the pulleys.
Why is the belt tensioner in a car important?
The belt tensioner in your car is an important component. It maintains the correct tension on the drive belts. This helps facilitate the transmission of power to the different accessories of your car. Because the belt tensioner is an integral component of the engine, only a professional mechanic with many years of experience can handle these
Why does my belt make a grinding noise?
This is what causes the grinding noise since the metal parts will be rubbing against each other. This is another symptom of a failing belt tensioner. Depending on the type of drive belt that you have in your car, then you should see even patterns throughout the length of the belt. Over time, these belts tend to wear out.