Suspect A Timing Chain Problem In Your BMW? Watch For These 5 Signs

Timing chain: this engine component doesn't require an introduction. Everyone is somewhat familiar with how this component work and how important is it to the overall functioning of a car engine. What the majority of people are unaware of are the warning indications that a timing chain gives off before failing.

That's what we have tried to cover in this blog post; symptoms of timing chain failure in a BMW.

Timing Chain: Part That Allows Engine Shafts to Rotate In Unison

Yup… you read that right! That’s exactly what a timing chain does. Made of metal links, the timing chain essentially allows the crank and camshafts to rotate in unison. The engine shafts' coordinated rotation enables the timely operation of the intake and exhaust valves.

That being said... if the timing chain becomes loose or damaged, the synchronization between different engine shafts will be out of whack; which could contribute to a whole host of different engine troubles including cylinder misfires. Therefore, becoming familiar with timing chain failure symptoms might help you avoid spending a fortune on future engine repairs.

Red Flags Your BMW Timing Chain Is About To Give Up

Cue #1- Engine rattle on startup

A peculiar rattling noise while starting the engine is one sign that your timing chain is likely to fail. Since the timing chain allows different engine shafts to rotate in sync; if it is worn out or loose, an audible rattling sound will be heard when the engine starts, but it will disappear right away. A bad starter motor may also result in the emergence of rattling noise on startup.

Cue #2- Car has trouble starting

Yup… you will have a hard time starting your BMW if its timing chain is not tight enough or is damaged. Although there are many different things that can contribute to such a problem… if you are having trouble breathing life into your BMW engine, the first thing you ought to do is to make sure the timing chain is secure enough and in excellent shape.

Cue #3- Metal flakes in oil

Has your BMW engine oil filter been catching too many metal pieces lately? Timing chain wear is one explanation for why this might be happening. Have someone check on the timing chain… if it has too many worn marks, get it replaced. If the timing chain is functioning properly, there must be another cause for the metal flakes in the engine oil. Find out what it is and act accordingly.

Cue #4- Car engine warning light on

The appearance of the check engine warning light is one thing you might expect if your timing chain is faulty. Cars might be able to tell you about their problems in the near future… but, until that day comes, you should rely on the dashboard warning lights that today's cars use to alert the driver of various problems they are experiencing. Should your BMW's check engine light appear, check the timing chain.

Cue #5- Cylinder misfire

Another thing that you will notice if your engine timing is off because of a defective timing chain is cylinder misfire. A cylinder misfire has all sorts of other reasons as well… Only a professional mechanic will be able to tell what the problem is- why is your engine timing off and why is it suffering from the misfiring problem.

Tips To Get the Most Out Of Your BMW Timing Chain

The timing chain is undoubtedly one of the most important parts of your BMW engine. You must do what it takes to prevent its premature failure.

1. Change your motor oil routinely
2. Check the timing chain tensioner every now and then
3. If the tensioner is faulty, consider replacing it
4. Change your oil filter periodically

Additionally, have your BMW timing chain examined by a qualified technician if you think there may be a problem.

To Put In A Nutshell…

Your BMW's engine timing could be thrown off by a defective timing chain. So, if it ever occurs to you that your timing chain is not working the way it is supposed to, have it checked by a certified mechanic. The mechanic will instruct you on what to do following a review of the timing chain's state.

Auto Scandia is one of the most sought-after high-end European car maintenance and repair facility located in Herndon, VA that is having over 40 years of experience in looking after luxury cars like BMW, Mercedes, Porsche, Volkswagen, and Volvo.