Timing Chain Repair Cost: Everything You Need To Know
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The timing chain is a piece of equipment that connects the engine’s crankshaft to the camshaft. This connection allows the engine valves to open and close with the piston location. If you have a broken timing chain, it can cause issues in your car. For those suspecting this issue, you might wonder - what does a timing chain repair cost?
If you want to learn more about a timing chain repair cost, you’ve come to the right place. Read on to learn more about the general price point, whether it’s best to repair or replace, and indications of a poor timing chain. The more you know, the faster you can get your car back on the road. What does the timing chain repair cost? Let’s find out.
Cost Of Timing Chain Repair
Unfortunately, it’s not practical to repair a timing chain. It’s a critical component that wears too thin to warrant a repair. If something is wrong, you will need to replace the timing chain. Instead of a timing chain repair cost, you should know the timing chain replacement cost. It’s a more practical number to understand.
Timing chains are tricky components to come by on the car market. According to theway.com, the average replacement cost for a timing chain averages $1,600 - $1,800 if the job is completed by a professional. If you decide to do the replacement, it will cost $600 - $800. It’s not a cheap repair by any means.
Thanks to this expense, it’s critical to have savings set aside for timing chain replacement. It’s necessary to keep your vehicle in proper driving condition.
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Indications Of A Bad Timing Chain
If you feel your timing chain is nearing the end but aren’t sure what to look for, we have several indications. These signs let you know your timing chain is on its last legs, and you need to look at replacement options.
According to tristarauto.net, here are prominent signs of a faulty timing chain:
- Misfiring Engine
- Rattling Sound
- Metal Shavings In Oil
- Check Engine Light
These indicate the need for a checkup.
Let’s dive into each of these troubles to give you a better idea of what to look for in a car. These may mean something else, but often they will point to a faulty timing chain.
Misfiring Engine
A misfiring engine is the first indication of an error in the timing chain. This issue occurs when there is an imbalance in the fuel-air ratio. Since the timing chain is in charge of opening and closing valves, this imbalance can cause a sudden lack of power in the engine. It will misfire.
You will see a loss of acceleration in the engine. It may jerk around as a result. It can cause trouble in your drive. You may be able to turn your car on, but it will misfire and cause issues. If you notice this trouble, examine the trouble for timing chain issues as soon as possible.
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Rattling Sound
Another indication of timing chain failure is a rattling sound in the engine. The rattling may also come to life when you press the brakes, usually in a stop harder than normal. It will sound unusual for your engine. Alternatively, the engine may seem like it is stuck in idle mode before you leave your driveway.
This trouble occurs when the timing chain is stretched and loose. It rattles around while the engine runs because it isn’t secure in its position. Eventually, it could result in a complete vehicle stop on the road. A rattling sound is a vital warning for a driver.
Metal Shavings In Oil
Contaminated oil is another indication of an error with the timing chain. You will notice little metal shavings in the oil as if someone took a sander to metal and the shavings landed in the oil. These bits may get bigger over time as the trouble progresses.
The pieces of metal come from a worn timing chain. They can break off and land in the oil, potentially causing trouble with the system. If you notice metal shavings in your car’s oil, check the timing chain right away for issues.
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Check Engine Light
The check engine light can be annoying, but it turns on for a reason. One of those reasons may be a fault in the timing chain. If you notice this light, don’t ignore it. Take your vehicle to a professional and ask them to assess the engine for issues. Failure to do so could result in expensive engine damage later down the line.
If there is nothing wrong, you could have a faulty engine light. If there is something wrong, you saved yourself lots of money with the timing chain replacement.
How Serious Is A Timing Chain Issue?
It might seem like a car will be fine without a timing chain. After all, it’s a small component compared to other parts in the car. What damage could happen?
If you ignore timing chain failures, the result could be extensive engine damage. This fault can cost thousands in repairs and may warrant a complete engine replacement if the trouble goes on for long enough.
A faulty timing chain can even cause the vehicle to stop suddenly, which is dangerous for any driver. Don’t take risks. If you notice any of the symptoms, take them to a shop right away. They can help you with the next steps.
Final Thoughts
A timing chain is a critical part of your system. It allows valves to open and close in time with the engine, which permits everything to move forward. Although it might seem like a timing chain repair cost should be your next consideration, replacement is better. It’s trickier to repair than replace this vital component.
We hope this information was helpful! If you suspect a timing chain fault, check your car for one of the four symptoms listed above. An expert can help you replace the part and get your system back to normal in no time. The timing chain is critical - take care of it.
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