In The Shop Today
Should You Be Concerned About Your Timing Chains?
Your timing chains are responsible for making sure all the components in your engine run in sync. When one of these components fails, it’s often “Bye, bye, bye” for your motor…and your wallet.
Lately we have had an unusually high number of vehicles come through the shop with complete engine failure. In some instances it is possible for us to rebuild your existing engine, however without complete disassembly and a total rebuild, there is always the potential for some additional long term damage that would require us to complete further work.
Complete engine replacement on this S4 due to failed timing components at 86.000 miles
SHOULD I BE WORRIED ABOUT MY ENGINE?
Short answer is “Yes”. Almost every modern European engine is what is known as an ‘interference’ engine. This means that if the engine comes out of time for any reason- stretched timing chains, failed timing chain tensioner, or a failed timing guide rail – or any number of other ways then your engine internals will essentially self destruct by colliding with each other while moving at a very high rate of speed (RPM). Mileage and age play a part in the wear of these components, and while the manufacturer does have recommended intervals for replacement of these components it is often too optimistic and failure happens before that. Pictured above is an Audi S4 with only 86,000 miles that has suffered a timing chain failure.
What Can Be Done To Prevent This?
In some instances we are able to inspect and measure your chain tensioner. This will give us a good indication as to the health of the tensioner in some ways, but also lets us know how much, if any, your timing chain has stretched. Past a certain point the tensioner is maxed out and cannot apply sufficient force to keep all components in time. At this point it is recommended to replace all timing related components and any and all preventative possible along with that service. For total peace of mind we recommend considering this service to save yourself a significantly more costly repair in the not too distant future. From a dollars and cents perspective, it is worth spending the money up front to ensure your vehicle stays running, than to have to replace or rebuild the engine or to end up selling a non running vehicle. Economically it is the more sensible route, and on top of that you can schedule and plan this service for a time that is convenient for you, rather than having a spontaneous failure at the worst possible time.
Call (919) 635-6355 or email service@blackforesttechnik.com to discuss your options for keeping your car in time today.