Why timing chains and wet belts fail
The timing chain or wet belt connects the crankshaft to the camshafts so the valves open and close at the right moment. A metal chain is durable but stretches over time, and its tensioner and guides wear. A wet belt, which runs in engine oil, degrades faster as the oil loses its protective additives. The rubber sheds debris that blocks the oil pick up, starving the engine of lubrication. In both cases the engine loses its timing, the valves can meet the pistons, and the repair bill climbs sharply.
We see these failures most often on Ford EcoBoost and EcoBlue engines, Peugeot, Citroën, DS and Vauxhall PureTech wet belt petrols, and Jaguar and Land Rover Ingenium diesels. See the full list on our engine repair by vehicle page.
Symptoms of timing chain or wet belt failure
If you notice any of the following, stop driving and get the engine checked before the timing is lost.
- A rattle or chatter from the engine on cold start up
- A rattling noise that gets louder as the engine warms up
- Engine management warning light, often with camshaft timing codes
- Rough running, hesitation or a loss of power
- Metal debris in the oil or a low oil pressure warning
- The engine cutting out or refusing to start
Our timing chain repair process
- 1
Diagnose
We read the fault codes, listen for chain rattle and check the oil for debris to confirm the failure.
- 2
Strip and inspect
The timing cover comes off. We inspect the chain or belt, the tensioners, the guides and the oil pick up for debris.
- 3
Replace with OEM parts
We fit a new chain or belt kit with genuine tensioners and guides, and replace the oil pump pick up if it is blocked.
- 4
Flush the oil system
On wet belt engines we flush the oil system to remove rubber debris that would otherwise reach the new components.
- 5
Test and return
The engine is timed, run, checked for codes and road tested before it is returned with a written warranty.
How much does a timing chain repair cost?
Timing chain repairs start at £2495.00. The price depends on the engine and whether the failure has caused further damage such as oil starvation or bent valves. You receive a written quote before any work starts. See typical pricing on our prices page.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a timing chain repair cost?
Timing chain repairs start at £2495.00. The price depends on the engine and whether the chain has caused further damage to the engine. You receive a written quote before any work starts.
What is the difference between a timing chain and a wet belt?
A timing chain runs in oil and is metal, while a wet belt is a rubber belt that also runs in oil. Both can fail, but wet belts degrade faster as the oil loses its additives, shedding debris that blocks the oil pick up.
Can a timing chain be repaired, or does the engine need replacing?
In most cases the chain, tensioners and guides can be replaced without changing the whole engine. If the failure has caused oil starvation and bearing damage, a fuller rebuild may be needed. We assess this during the strip down.
How long does a timing chain repair take?
Most timing chain repairs take between two and five working days, depending on the engine and parts availability. We give you a realistic timescale with your written quote.
Timing chain repair from £2495.00
OEM chain and belt kits, oil system flush, road tested and collected from your door.