Symptoms of a Bad Timing Chain on a Subaru
A timing chain in a Subaru is responsible for coordinating the opening and closing of valves within the internal combustion engine. When it starts to wear out or fail, there are several symptoms to look out for. Here are the common signs of a bad timing chain on a Subaru:
1. Engine Misfiring:
– If the engine timing system is slightly off, it can lead to engine misfiring, indicating a potential issue with the timing chain.
2. Rattling Sound:
– A worn or lax timing chain can produce a rattling sound when starting the engine or idling, signaling a potential problem with the timing chain.
3. Check Engine Light:
– A broken timing chain or a chain that has skipped a gear can trigger the Check Engine Light, indicating that the valve timing exceeds certain preset limits and/or exhaust emissions are out of specification. Ignoring this warning can lead to severe damage to the engine and associated systems.
4. Engine Failure to Start:
– If the timing chain has fallen off completely, broken, or jumped a few teeth, the engine may fail to start, and there may be noticeable slapping sounds as the engine cranks over.
It’s important to note that while most of the very latest Subaru models feature a permanent metal timing chain, older Subaru models and certain high-performance models may feature a rubberized timing belt. The symptoms mentioned above specifically apply to a timing chain, but it’s crucial to be aware of the type of timing component in your Subaru to accurately diagnose any issues.
If you notice any of these symptoms in your Subaru, it’s advisable to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified service technician to diagnose the exact cause and make appropriate repairs as needed.
I hope this information helps! If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask.
Contents
- Will timing chain throw a code?
- Is timing chain worth fixing?
- Is there a warning before a timing chain breaks?
- Can a timing chain last 300000 miles?
- How long does a Subaru timing chain last?
- When should a Subaru timing chain be replaced?
- What kind of noise does a bad timing chain make?
- How do I know if my timing chain is going out?
- Do Subarus have timing chain issues?
- Which Subarus have timing chains?
Will timing chain throw a code?
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.
Is timing chain worth fixing?
There’s no reason to alter the timing chain unless it’s damaged, strained, or otherwise affected. If there is a problem with the timing chain, your car will most likely have one or more issues.
Is there a warning before a timing chain breaks?
Signs of a Bad Timing Chain
Misfiring, poor idle, and rough running could mean the chain has jumped a tooth and the timing is off. Replacement is urgent, because the chain could break at any point, and the engine could be damaged from incorrect valve timing.
Can a timing chain last 300000 miles?
A timing chain should easily last the life of the engine, well over 100,000 miles even upward of 250K, other parts will wear out or fail first.
How long does a Subaru timing chain last?
A timing chain is bulkier and louder; however, it does not require replacement. Though a repair might be necessary in some rare occasions, most timing chains last for the entire life of the engine.
When should a Subaru timing chain be replaced?
They may only need to get new timing chains after driving for a full one hundred and twenty thousand miles. It should take years for most drivers to get to that point. Customers who recently purchased used Subaru vehicles should usually get the automotive timing chains checked.
What kind of noise does a bad timing chain make?
rattling sound
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 do I know if my timing chain is going out?
If it does it’s best to replace. It the third symptom is poor. Performance a stretched timing belt or chain could eventually lead to skipping a tooth on one of the sprockets.
Do Subarus have timing chain issues?
All Subaru sold in the USA after 2005 have an “Interference” engine. Therefore, if the timing belt or timing chain breaks or jumps timing, it can cause bent valves and possibly dinged pistons in the engine, thus resulting in expensive repairs. If you have an older car, some model were Interference and others not.
Which Subarus have timing chains?
Simply, then, a 1997 to 2011 Forester will have a timing belt, while any of the fourth-gen Foresters (from 2013 or later) will have a timing chain. And for a brief period from 2011 to 2012, the Forester was fitted with either a timing belt or a timing chain depending on which engine was fitted.
