{"id":65060,"date":"2022-01-24T00:01:55","date_gmt":"2022-01-24T08:01:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogv2prod.wpenginepowered.com\/blog\/?p=65060"},"modified":"2024-01-25T19:45:27","modified_gmt":"2024-01-26T03:45:27","slug":"symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/","title":{"rendered":"Symptoms of a Bad Timing Chain Tensioner, Plus FAQ"},"content":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<html><body><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 4<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span><style>.kadence-column_4c544d-98 > .kt-inside-inner-col{border-top-width:0px;border-right-width:0px;border-bottom-width:0px;border-left-width:0px;}.kadence-column_4c544d-98 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column_4c544d-98 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column_4c544d-98 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column_4c544d-98 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column_4c544d-98 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column_4c544d-98 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column_4c544d-98{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column_4c544d-98 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column_4c544d-98 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column inner-column-1 kadence-column_4c544d-98 qk-look-widget\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-row ultp-block-52358e  qk-main-wrap\"><div class=\"ultp-row-wrapper\"><div class=\"ultp-row-content\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-column ultp-block-8311f0\"><div class=\"ultp-column-wrapper\"><style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_dea6ca-d2, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_dea6ca-d2[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_dea6ca-d2\"]{text-align:center;font-size:20px;font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_dea6ca-d2 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_dea6ca-d2[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_dea6ca-d2\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-family:Inter;font-weight:500;font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_dea6ca-d2 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_dea6ca-d2[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_dea6ca-d2\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"kt-adv-heading_dea6ca-d2 summary-title wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_dea6ca-d2\"><span>Summary<\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Timing chain tensioners are responsible for controlling the tension of the timing chain, keeping it tight to ensure that it runs smoothly.<\/li><li>Bad timing chain tensioner symptoms include a lit check engine light, engine performance issues, and rattling noises from the engine.<\/li><li>Timing chain tensioner problems are often brought about by poor maintenance and forgetting to get oil changes.<\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>Some vehicles have a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/timing-chain\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"timing chain\">timing chain<\/a> (instead of a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/timing-belt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"timing belt\">timing belt<\/a>) buried inside of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/car-engine-parts\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"engine\">engine<\/a>. Although the timing chain and related components, such as the timing chain tensioner, are designed to last the life of the vehicle, that doesn&rsquo;t always happen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A failed timing chain tensioner can lead to significant engine damage&mdash;and that&rsquo;s definitely something you&rsquo;ll want to avoid. If your vehicle has a bad timing chain tensioner, you&rsquo;ll notice some obvious symptoms that you&rsquo;ll want to address right away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Does a Timing Chain Tensioner Do?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Before you can comprehend the role of the timing chain tensioner, you need to have an understanding of the timing chain. Inside the engine, there are is a crankshaft and one or more <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/camshaft\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"camshafts\">camshafts<\/a>. The crankshaft is attached to the connecting rod and piston assemblies, whereas the intake and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/exhaust-valve\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"exhaust valves\">exhaust valves<\/a> are operated by the camshaft(s).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The crankshaft and camshaft(s) must be kept in sync (&ldquo;in time&rdquo;) so that the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/piston\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"pistons\">pistons<\/a> are at the correct point of travel when the valves open and close. Depending on the engine design, either a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/timing-belt\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"timing belt\">timing belt<\/a> or timing chain is used to connect the crankshaft to the camshaft(s), thereby keeping the engine in time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"606\" height=\"591\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Capture-1.jpg\" alt=\"Capture 1\" class=\"wp-image-65086\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Capture-1.jpg 606w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Capture-1-300x293.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Capture-1-150x146.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 606px) 100vw, 606px\"><figcaption> A failed timing chain tensioner can lead to significant engine damage&mdash;and that&rsquo;s definitely something you&rsquo;ll want to avoid. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>One or more tensioners and a collection of guides are used to secure and keep tension on the timing chain.<\/strong> Depending on the engine&rsquo;s design, the tensioner will use either spring tension or oil pressure to keep the timing chain tight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The timing chain must be kept secure so that engine timing remains within specification. Otherwise, the engine will experience performance problems, such as rough running and misfiring. There could even be catastrophic internal damage from valve-to-piston contact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Bad Timing Chain Tensioner Symptoms<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Do you think you might be dealing with a bad timing chain tensioner? If you notice one or more of the following symptoms, you might be right.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em><strong>Note:<\/strong> Other problems can mimic a failed timing chain tensioner. You (or your mechanic) should perform a thorough diagnosis before conducting any repairs.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Illuminated Check Engine Light<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The engine computer, which is often referred to as the powertrain control module (PCM), monitors engine timing via the crankshaft and camshaft sensors. If the PCM determines the engine timing is off due to a failed tensioner or any other problem, it will <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/check-engine-light-flashing\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"turn on the check engine light\">turn on the check engine light<\/a> and store a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/search-obd2-codes-list\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"diagnostic trouble code\">diagnostic trouble code<\/a> (DTC) in its memory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Engine Performance Problems<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>An engine needs three ingredients to run well: proper spark, a precise air-fuel mixture, and adequate compression. Compression&mdash;the pressure the piston imposes on the air-fuel mixture while moving upward in a sealed cylinder&mdash;is necessary for the air-fuel mixture to be ignited properly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"article-search-widget\">\n<div class=\"cp-search\">\n<div align=\"center\">\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/w_auto,dpr_auto\/carparts\/logos\/badge_wordmark\/full_color\/CP_LOGO_COLOUR_RGB\" alt=\"CarParts.com\" width=\"300\" height=\"56\">\n<\/div>\n<form id=\"cpsearchform\" name=\"cpsearchform\" action=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/search\" method=\"get\" target=\"_blank\" accept-charset=\"character_set\" aria-label=\"search CarParts.com\">\n    <input type=\"text\" class=\"keyword\" name=\"q\" placeholder=\"Search for parts on CarParts.com\" value=\"\" aria-label=\"Search CarParts.com\"><input type=\"submit\" class=\"btn-search\" value=\"Search\" aria-label=\"Search\">\n<\/form>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>When the engine is out of time due to a failed timing chain tensioner, the valves don&rsquo;t open and close when they should, leading to a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/the-symptoms-of-low-compression-plus-faq\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"loss of compression\">loss of compression<\/a> and an engine that runs rough and misfires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Engine Cranks But Doesn&rsquo;t Start<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In some cases, the engine might not even start if the tensioner fails and the timing chain breaks or becomes extremely loose. In such a scenario, there&rsquo;s a good chance the valves will remain open when they shouldn&rsquo;t be, resulting in valve-to-piston contact and catastrophic engine failure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Rattling Noise From the Engine<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A failed tensioner will cause the timing chain to be loose, which can result in a rattling noise coming from the engine. If the engine has hydraulic tensioners, you might notice that the noise is most prominent upon start-up when oil is just beginning to circulate throughout the engine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAQ<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1653621449454\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What causes a timing chain tensioner to fail?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Usually, timing chain tensioners simply wear out over time. A tensioner may also become over-extended if the timing chain is stretched. Lack of maintenance (oil changes) can lead to accelerated timing component wear, as well.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1653621471011\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How do I check a timing chain tensioner?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">On most modern vehicles with second-generation onboard diagnostics (OBDII), an engine that&rsquo;s out of time will usually set one or more timing-related DTCs that can be retrieved with a scan tool or code reader. But to determine whether the timing chain tensioner is to blame, you&rsquo;ll need to access the tensioner and perform a visual inspection.<br><br><strong>In many cases, you must remove the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/timing-cover\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"timing cover\">timing cover<\/a> to inspect the timing chain tensioner directly.<\/strong> Though, in some instances, you might be able to see the tensioner through an inspection cover or by removing the valve cover and looking down at the timing components.<br><br>If the timing chain tensioner shows visible damage or is over-extended, it has failed (or the timing chain is stretched). Some timing chain tensioners also have seals that blow out, but you generally need to remove the tensioner from the engine to check the seal.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1365\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/man-trying-to-check-the-timing-chain-tensioner-scaled.jpg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"man trying to check the timing chain tensioner\" style=\"max-width: 100%; height: auto;\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/man-trying-to-check-the-timing-chain-tensioner-scaled.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/man-trying-to-check-the-timing-chain-tensioner-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/man-trying-to-check-the-timing-chain-tensioner-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/man-trying-to-check-the-timing-chain-tensioner-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/man-trying-to-check-the-timing-chain-tensioner-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/man-trying-to-check-the-timing-chain-tensioner-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/man-trying-to-check-the-timing-chain-tensioner-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\"><\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1653621526026\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can you drive with a bad timing chain tensioner?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"><strong>You absolutely should not continue to drive with a bad timing chain tensioner.<\/strong> Doing so can cause catastrophic engine damage and potentially leave you stranded.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to Get a New Timing Chain Tensioner for Your Vehicle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Irreversible engine damage is the last thing anybody wants to happen to their vehicle. This problem can be caused by something as simple as a damaged <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/timing-chain-tensioner\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"timing chain tensioner\">timing chain tensioner<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Don&rsquo;t put off dealing with your car&rsquo;s damaged timing chain tensioner. Order a high-quality replacement right here at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/timing-chain-tensioner\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"CarParts.com\">CarParts.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Our website has a great selection of timing chain tensioners for various makes and models. All you have to do is use our vehicle selector to check for vehicle fitment. You can also use the search filters to narrow down the results according to your preferred brand, price range, quantity, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here at CarParts.com, you don&rsquo;t have to second guess the quality of our parts. All our products come with a lifetime and low-price guarantee to help you get the best value for your money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Order now, and get your new timing chain tensioner delivered straight to your doorstep in as fast as two business days!<\/p>\n<\/body><\/html>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 4<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span>Some vehicles have a timing chain (instead of a timing belt) buried inside of the engine. Although the timing chain&#8230; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/\" rel=\"nofollow\">Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":29,"featured_media":65062,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[52,3747],"tags":[3354,1206,1187,1345],"ppma_author":[2622],"class_list":{"0":"post-65060","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-diy","8":"category-engine","9":"tag-car-engine-all-articles","10":"tag-timing-belt-2","11":"tag-timing-chain-2","12":"tag-timing-chain-tensioner","13":"entry"},"acf":{"adrotate_specific_mobile_ad":"","adrotate_specific_desktop_ad":""},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Symptoms of a Bad Timing Chain Tensioner, Plus FAQ - In The Garage with CarParts.com<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"A failed timing chain tensioner can lead to significant engine damage. Here are the most common symptoms to watch out for. Read on.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Symptoms of a Bad Timing Chain Tensioner, Plus FAQ - In The Garage with CarParts.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"A failed timing chain tensioner can lead to significant engine damage. Here are the most common symptoms to watch out for. Read on.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"In The Garage with CarParts.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2022-01-24T08:01:55+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2024-01-26T03:45:27+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/man-performs-car-hood-visual-inspection-of-black-car.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1500\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1000\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"6 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\\\/\"},\"author\":[{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"$id\":\"29\",\"name\":\"Mia Bevacqua\",\"jobTitle\":\"ASE Master Automobile Technician\",\"description\":\"Mia Bevacqua has over 14 years of experience in the auto industry and holds a bachelor\u2019s degree in Advanced Automotive Systems. Certifications include ASE Master Automobile Technician, Master Medium\\\/Heavy Truck Technician, L1, L2, L3, and L4 Advanced Level Specialist. Mia loves fixer-upper oddballs, like her 1987 Cavalier Z-24 and 1998 Astro Van AWD.\",\"knowsAbout\":\"Auto Repair, Car Maintenance, Auto Parts, Car Reviews\",\"publishingPrinciples\":\"\\\/blog\\\/our-team\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/author\\\/miabevacqua\",\"sameAs\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.linkedin.com\\\/in\\\/mia-bevacqua-55b3a485\"}],\"headline\":\"Symptoms of a Bad Timing Chain Tensioner, Plus FAQ\",\"datePublished\":\"2022-01-24T08:01:55+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-01-26T03:45:27+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":1094,\"commentCount\":1,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2022\\\/01\\\/man-performs-car-hood-visual-inspection-of-black-car.jpg\",\"keywords\":[\"Car Engine All Articles\",\"timing-belt\",\"timing-chain\",\"timing-chain-tensioner\"],\"articleSection\":[\"DIY\",\"Engine\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\\\/#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":[\"WebPage\",\"FAQPage\"],\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\\\/\",\"name\":\"Symptoms of a Bad Timing Chain Tensioner, Plus FAQ - In The Garage with CarParts.com\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2022\\\/01\\\/man-performs-car-hood-visual-inspection-of-black-car.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2022-01-24T08:01:55+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-01-26T03:45:27+00:00\",\"description\":\"A failed timing chain tensioner can lead to significant engine damage. Here are the most common symptoms to watch out for. Read on.\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\\\/#faq-question-1653621449454\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\\\/#faq-question-1653621471011\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\\\/#faq-question-1653621526026\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2022\\\/01\\\/man-performs-car-hood-visual-inspection-of-black-car.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2022\\\/01\\\/man-performs-car-hood-visual-inspection-of-black-car.jpg\",\"width\":1500,\"height\":1000,\"caption\":\"man performs car hood visual inspection of black car\"},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/\",\"name\":\"In The Garage with CarParts.com\",\"description\":\"\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\",\"name\":\"CarParts.com\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/03\\\/cp-itg-logo.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/03\\\/cp-itg-logo.png\",\"width\":2048,\"height\":398,\"caption\":\"CarParts.com\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.facebook.com\\\/carpartscom\",\"https:\\\/\\\/x.com\\\/carpartscom\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.instagram.com\\\/carpartscom\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.youtube.com\\\/@CarPartscomOfficial\\\/\"]},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\\\/#faq-question-1653621449454\",\"position\":1,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\\\/#faq-question-1653621449454\",\"name\":\"What causes a timing chain tensioner to fail?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Usually, timing chain tensioners simply wear out over time. A tensioner may also become over-extended if the timing chain is stretched. Lack of maintenance (oil changes) can lead to accelerated timing component wear, as well.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\\\/#faq-question-1653621471011\",\"position\":2,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\\\/#faq-question-1653621471011\",\"name\":\"How do I check a timing chain tensioner?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"On most modern vehicles with second-generation onboard diagnostics (OBDII), an engine that\u2019s out of time will usually set one or more timing-related DTCs that can be retrieved with a scan tool or code reader. But to determine whether the timing chain tensioner is to blame, you\u2019ll need to access the tensioner and perform a visual inspection.<br\\\/><br\\\/><strong>In many cases, you must remove the <a href=\\\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/timing-cover\\\" target=\\\"_blank\\\" rel=\\\"noreferrer noopener\\\">timing cover<\\\/a> to inspect the timing chain tensioner directly.<\\\/strong> Though, in some instances, you might be able to see the tensioner through an inspection cover or by removing the valve cover and looking down at the timing components.<br\\\/><br\\\/>If the timing chain tensioner shows visible damage or is over-extended, it has failed (or the timing chain is stretched). Some timing chain tensioners also have seals that blow out, but you generally need to remove the tensioner from the engine to check the seal.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\\\/#faq-question-1653621526026\",\"position\":3,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\\\/#faq-question-1653621526026\",\"name\":\"Can you drive with a bad timing chain tensioner?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"<strong>You absolutely should not continue to drive with a bad timing chain tensioner.<\\\/strong> Doing so can cause catastrophic engine damage and potentially leave you stranded.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Symptoms of a Bad Timing Chain Tensioner, Plus FAQ - In The Garage with CarParts.com","description":"A failed timing chain tensioner can lead to significant engine damage. Here are the most common symptoms to watch out for. Read on.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Symptoms of a Bad Timing Chain Tensioner, Plus FAQ - In The Garage with CarParts.com","og_description":"A failed timing chain tensioner can lead to significant engine damage. Here are the most common symptoms to watch out for. Read on.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/","og_site_name":"In The Garage with CarParts.com","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/carpartscom","article_published_time":"2022-01-24T08:01:55+00:00","article_modified_time":"2024-01-26T03:45:27+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1500,"height":1000,"url":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/man-performs-car-hood-visual-inspection-of-black-car.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@carpartscom","twitter_site":"@carpartscom","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"","Est. reading time":"6 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/"},"author":[{"@type":"Person","$id":"29","name":"Mia Bevacqua","jobTitle":"ASE Master Automobile Technician","description":"Mia Bevacqua has over 14 years of experience in the auto industry and holds a bachelor\u2019s degree in Advanced Automotive Systems. Certifications include ASE Master Automobile Technician, Master Medium\/Heavy Truck Technician, L1, L2, L3, and L4 Advanced Level Specialist. Mia loves fixer-upper oddballs, like her 1987 Cavalier Z-24 and 1998 Astro Van AWD.","knowsAbout":"Auto Repair, Car Maintenance, Auto Parts, Car Reviews","publishingPrinciples":"\/blog\/our-team\/","url":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/author\/miabevacqua","sameAs":"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/mia-bevacqua-55b3a485"}],"headline":"Symptoms of a Bad Timing Chain Tensioner, Plus FAQ","datePublished":"2022-01-24T08:01:55+00:00","dateModified":"2024-01-26T03:45:27+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/"},"wordCount":1094,"commentCount":1,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/man-performs-car-hood-visual-inspection-of-black-car.jpg","keywords":["Car Engine All Articles","timing-belt","timing-chain","timing-chain-tensioner"],"articleSection":["DIY","Engine"],"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"CommentAction","name":"Comment","target":["https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/#respond"]}]},{"@type":["WebPage","FAQPage"],"@id":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/","url":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/","name":"Symptoms of a Bad Timing Chain Tensioner, Plus FAQ - In The Garage with CarParts.com","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/man-performs-car-hood-visual-inspection-of-black-car.jpg","datePublished":"2022-01-24T08:01:55+00:00","dateModified":"2024-01-26T03:45:27+00:00","description":"A failed timing chain tensioner can lead to significant engine damage. Here are the most common symptoms to watch out for. Read on.","mainEntity":[{"@id":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/#faq-question-1653621449454"},{"@id":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/#faq-question-1653621471011"},{"@id":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/#faq-question-1653621526026"}],"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/man-performs-car-hood-visual-inspection-of-black-car.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/man-performs-car-hood-visual-inspection-of-black-car.jpg","width":1500,"height":1000,"caption":"man performs car hood visual inspection of black car"},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/","name":"In The Garage with CarParts.com","description":"","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/#organization","name":"CarParts.com","url":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/cp-itg-logo.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/cp-itg-logo.png","width":2048,"height":398,"caption":"CarParts.com"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/carpartscom","https:\/\/x.com\/carpartscom","https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/carpartscom","https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/@CarPartscomOfficial\/"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"","url":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/#faq-question-1653621449454","position":1,"url":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/#faq-question-1653621449454","name":"What causes a timing chain tensioner to fail?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Usually, timing chain tensioners simply wear out over time. A tensioner may also become over-extended if the timing chain is stretched. Lack of maintenance (oil changes) can lead to accelerated timing component wear, as well.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/#faq-question-1653621471011","position":2,"url":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/#faq-question-1653621471011","name":"How do I check a timing chain tensioner?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"On most modern vehicles with second-generation onboard diagnostics (OBDII), an engine that\u2019s out of time will usually set one or more timing-related DTCs that can be retrieved with a scan tool or code reader. But to determine whether the timing chain tensioner is to blame, you\u2019ll need to access the tensioner and perform a visual inspection.<br\/><br\/><strong>In many cases, you must remove the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/timing-cover\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">timing cover<\/a> to inspect the timing chain tensioner directly.<\/strong> Though, in some instances, you might be able to see the tensioner through an inspection cover or by removing the valve cover and looking down at the timing components.<br\/><br\/>If the timing chain tensioner shows visible damage or is over-extended, it has failed (or the timing chain is stretched). Some timing chain tensioners also have seals that blow out, but you generally need to remove the tensioner from the engine to check the seal.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/#faq-question-1653621526026","position":3,"url":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/#faq-question-1653621526026","name":"Can you drive with a bad timing chain tensioner?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"<strong>You absolutely should not continue to drive with a bad timing chain tensioner.<\/strong> Doing so can cause catastrophic engine damage and potentially leave you stranded.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"}]}},"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/man-performs-car-hood-visual-inspection-of-black-car.jpg","featured_image_src_square":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/man-performs-car-hood-visual-inspection-of-black-car.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"","author_link":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-a-bad-timing-chain-tensioner-plus-faq\/"},"authors":[{"term_id":2622,"user_id":1643,"is_guest":0,"slug":"miabevacqua","display_name":"Mia Bevacqua, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician","avatar_url":{"url":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/mia-bevacqua-chief-mechanic.png","url2x":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/mia-bevacqua-chief-mechanic.png"},"0":null,"1":"","2":"","3":"","4":"","5":"","6":"","7":"","8":""}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/65060","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/29"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=65060"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/65060\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/65062"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=65060"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=65060"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=65060"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/ppma_author?post=65060"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}