Can a timing chain make a rattling noise?
Rattle in the Engine During Startup or Idling When the timing chain is loose, it can cause a vibration in the motor resulting in a rattling noise as the engine idles or when starting. If you hear a rattle, it means something is loose and needs to be fixed before it breaks.
What does a rattling 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.
Can timing chain tensioner failure symptoms?
You would notice some signs that tell that the chain tensioner is failing, and you can conduct a further inspection to see if there is a need for a replacement. These symptoms often include a knocking sound, check engine light turning on, and an engine misfiring.
How long can a loose timing chain last?
between 80,000 and 120,000 miles
When does a timing chain need to be replaced? The timing chain normally needs to be replaced between 80,000 and 120,000 miles unless there is a specific problem. Issues with the chain are common in higher mileage vehicles.
Can I drive with a bad timing 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 the symptoms of a loose timing chain?
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.
How much does it cost to replace timing 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 do you do when your timing chain rattles?
Don an automotive stethoscope and place the probe on the top or side of the timing chain cover. If you hear a rattle, metal to metal slapping or scraping coming from inside the cover, it indicates a timing chain noise.
Why does the timing chain make a noise when the engine is running?
If the two become misaligned or the connection breaks as the result of a bad timing chain, the engine fails to run properly or won’t run at all. The timing chain can make a variety of noises, and most often other parts of the engine are blamed for timing chain noise.
What happens if you have a bad timing chain?
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.
Why does my car make a rattling noise when I start the engine?
Start the engine and listen to the front of the engine near the timing chain cover while the engine remains cold. A bad timing chain will often emit a rattling sound for a few minutes before the engine warms up, and then will lower in intensity or dissipate altogether after it warms up.