Reasons for a Timing Chain Tensioner Failure in a Jaguar From Experienced Technicians in Scottsdale

by techplusaadmin December 22, 2021

British car-maker, Jaguar, has created a brand synonymous with powerful, sleek efficiency with a sophisticated interior and advanced features. It’s blend of comfort and performance has made it a well-respected luxury automobile, recognizable worldwide.

A vehicle of this caliber deserves the respect it demands, and it also deserves a routine care plan, which means regular service at a brand-specialized shop like Tech Plus Automotive.

If not properly maintained, certain parts and functions can begin to deteriorate. One common victim of wear and tear is the timing chain tensioner.

If you believe there is a fault in your Jaguar’s timing chain tensioner, read this article to learn more about what this part does, the symptoms of a malfunction, and when to call Tech Plus for a thorough inspection.

The Timing Chain Tensioner

The timing chain tensioner works on the timing belt by tightening and steering it into the proper tension required to synchronise the opening and closing of the engine valves. These valves on the camshaft and crankshaft are responsible for ensuring that the correct amount of fuel is injected into the engine, and the byproduct properly released.

In simpler terms, the timing chain tensioner functions to ensure that both parts of your engine are rotating in sync. Regardless of if your Jaguar has a timing belt or chain, and whether or not it is hydraulic or spring-controlled, there is a chance the system could fail if not properly maintained.

Symptoms of Timing Chain Tensioner Failure

Below are four common symptoms that might alert you to an issue with your timing chain tensioner. If you notice one or any combination of these signs, give Tech Plus Automotive a call.

• Unusual Noise: One of the first things you might notice is an unusual rattling noise coming from the engine. When the timing belt or chain is out of sync, it will cause the engine to vibrate If you hear a shuddering sound from under the hood, be sure to stop driving, inspect the engine, and schedule an immediate service.
• Issues Starting the Engine: When the camshaft and crankshaft valves become unsynchronized due to a faulty timing chain tensioner, the fuel-air ratio is off. This leads to your Jaguar running rough, stalling, or simply not turning over.
• Engine Misfires: Another symptom of a failing timing chain tensioner is engine misfires. Premature combustion due to lack of synchronization between the valves will cause your vehicle to misfire.
• Check Engine Light Illumination: All of the difficulties listed above that your Jaguar’s engine might experience due to a timing chain tensioner issue could lead to the check engine light appearing on your dashboard. Any time this light becomes illuminated, it is a good idea to bring your vehicle in to be serviced so that its computer error code can be analyzed by a professional.

Possible Explanations for the Failure

If you’re experiencing one or more of the above symptoms and you suspect an issue with your timing chain tensioner, you will want to know why this happened. After about 200,000 miles, it is expected that the timing chain tensioner will deteriorate to a certain degree. This natural wear and tear is the most common reason. However, it could also be that the engine’s oil level is running low or the oil is of poor quality, leading the timing chain mechanism to lose pressure and begin to malfunction.

The Benefits of Choosing Tech Plus Automotive

A failed timing chain tensioner will need to be replaced by experienced professionals in a properly equipped shop specialized in servicing luxury European brands. Unfortunately, when the timing chain tensioner fails, it usually causes some amount of damage to the timing chain and other nearby engine parts, such as the water pump.

Replacing the timing chain tensioner at some point is fairly inevitable, if you’ve driven your vehicle long enough. However, you can avoid a nasty surprise or sudden failure by maintaining your Jaguar in optimum condition through regular service appointments.

Our certified mechanics at Tech Plus Automotive will run diagnostics on your Jaguar and stay on top of any irregularities before they get out of hand and leave you stranded or stuck with a massive bill.

Tech Plus Automotive is easily accessible from the areas of Phoenix, Paradise Valley, McCormick Ranch, and Scottsdale, AZ. If you want reliable service administered by trained and certified Jaguar technicians, call Tech Plus at (480) 607-1177 and schedule your Jaguar’s appointment.