At Modern Auto Service, we are your premier Ford repair center in the Fruitland, ID area. We specialize in all things Ford—among other vehicles.
As Ford repair specialists, one of the most common repair issues we remedy is the Ford timing chain rattle. Let’s take a closer look at the Ford timing chain rattle.
What are Timing Chain & Timing Belt?
Timing belts and chains do the same thing. They both connect your engine’s camshaft to the crankshaft. The timing chain or belt helps open the valves of your engine, allowing air and fuel into the engine while releasing exhaust.
While timing belts and chains have similar jobs, they are made of different materials, installed differently, and have different associated maintenance costs.
Depending on the specific model and engine, Ford vehicles have both timing chains and timing belts.
In general, newer Ford vehicles tend to use timing chains, which are durable and require less frequent maintenance. Timing chains are made of metal and designed to last the engine’s lifetime.
However, some older Ford models and certain engines may still use timing belts. Timing belts are made of rubber and must be replaced regularly to prevent engine damage if the belt fails.
Beware the Risks of Timing Chain Failure
If your vehicle needs timing chain replacement, it’s imperative to have the service promptly. Delaying the timing chain replacement can open the door to several more expensive risks.
- Engine misfire: If your timing chain becomes loose or stretched, it can cause the mistiming of the opening and closing of your engine valves. This can lead to a loss of engine power and engine misfires.
- Engine failure or damage: If you are unfortunate enough for your timing chain to snap, your engine valves can collide with the pistons. When this occurs, it will cause substantial damage to your engine. In the worst cases, a snapped timing chain has resulted in a complete engine rebuild, one of the most expensive Ford truck repair issues.
- Engine noises: When you need a timing chain replacement, you will hear a strange noise. This sound often takes the form of a slapping noise or a rattling noise. Both sounds should be alarming and indicate your timing chain is loose or near failure.
- Engine stalls: This can make it almost impossible to restart your vehicle. In severe cases, it can result in you being stranded on the side of the road.
Help! My Timing Chain Is Making a Rattling Sound
You Need Timing Chain Tensioner Repair
A damaged timing chain tensioner can lead to various issues with your engine’s timing chain. The timing chain relies on the tensioner to maintain the appropriate tension through spring tension or hydraulic pressure.
When the tensioner starts to malfunction, you may notice a distinct rattling noise from the engine. This symptom can be accompanied by rough engine performance and an illuminated check engine light.
Your Timing Chain Guides Need Repair
The timing chain guide keeps your timing chain on the right path. This is critical for the proper performance of your timing chain. If your timing chain guide falls out of place, it may cause a vibrating or rattling noise.
You Have a Stretched Timing Chain
Over normal use, your timing chain can become stretched, which can lead to it breaking. When this happens, a stretched timing chain can cause rattling noises. A timing chain replacement is the only way to fix this issue. Doing so can prevent more expensive Ford repairs.
Contact Modern Auto Service for Ford Repair in Fruitland, ID
Whether you need timing chain replacement or any other Ford repair, Modern Auto Service can help. Our highly-skilled and ASE-certified technicians utilize the latest and most advanced tools and processes to perform world-class auto repairs and preventative maintenance.
And when you visit Modern Auto Service in Fruitland, ID, we stand behind our repairs with a best-in-class 48-Month/48,000-Mile Warranty for greater peace of mind.
Call us at (208) 452-2886 or drop by our full-service auto shop at 1225 S Pennsylvania Ave., Fruitland, ID 83619.
