What is a Timing Chain?
A metal chain (instead of a belt) that times your engine — usually lasts the life of the car.
Simplified animation — not to scale.
In plain English
A timing chain does the same job as a timing belt — keeping the camshaft and crankshaft in sync — but it's made of metal links running in engine oil rather than a rubber belt. It's designed to last the lifetime of the engine, though it isn't maintenance-free.
"Like the chain inside a quality watch — built to last, but only if it's kept clean and oiled."
How it works
The chain is lubricated by engine oil and kept tight by a hydraulic tensioner. Skipping oil changes is the fastest way to wear it out: dirty oil eats the tensioner and the chain "stretches", throwing the timing off. A stretched chain will eventually jump a tooth and damage the engine.
Signs of trouble
- ⚠Rattling noise from the front of the engine on cold start
- ⚠Engine warning light with timing or camshaft fault codes
- ⚠Rough idle or loss of power
- ⚠Metal shavings in the engine oil
- ⚠Engine refuses to start
£800–£1,600 fitted
Always get a written quote. Prices vary by car, region, and parts brand.