Is A Timing Chain The Same As A Timing Belt? And it’s important to note that some cars use a timing belt instead of a timing chain. The timing chain may also drive components like the water pump and balance shaft in certain engines. This allows your intake and exhaust valves (operated by the camshaft) to be timed correctly with the pistons (operated by the crankshaft) - resulting in proper engine combustion. The timing chain synchronizes your vehicle’s crankshaft and camshaft(s). Here are answers to some timing chain questions: 1. Small metal pieces in your engine oil when drained, or found in the oil filter, could mean your timing chain needs a replacement. Metal shavings in your oil: Tiny metal bits can shear off a worn timing chain. Your engine may stutter, feel sluggish, experience misfires, and hesitate on acceleration.Įngine won’t run: If your timing chain is very far gone, your engine may not run as the timing is completely off. Valves don’t open and close at the correct time, resulting in incomplete combustion. Poor engine performance: A stretched timing chain will cause the camshaft and crankshaft to be out of sync. Damage to related components like chain guides or a chain tensioner will also produce noises like whining or buzzing.

It’ll trigger your dashboard check engine light and likely store a timing-related trouble code, like P0011 or P0012 - depending on which timing component prompted the warning.Įngine noises: A loose or damaged timing chain often makes a rattling or whirring sound. What Are The Symptoms Of A Defective Timing Chain?Ī faulty timing chain will cause your vehicle to exhibit one or more symptoms.Īn illuminated check engine light: If your timing isn’t running right, your engine computer will detect this problem at some point.

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