As an Import Specialty Repair Shop, we maintain the specialty tooling, diagnostic equipment and training that your vehicle needs to perform at your expectations. 

We offer Diagnostics & service for your:

Brakes | Exhaust | Engine | Timing Belts and Variable Valve Timing Components | Transmission Service and Repair | Inspections | Tires Suspension Components | Shocks and Struts | Cooling Systems | A/C & Heating | Windows | Engine Diagnosis and Electrical Problems

From the front bumper to your rear bumper, we perform all services needed to maintain your Import Automobile.

Timing Chain

Replacing the timing chain on luxury foreign cars like Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar, BMW, and other European makes typically depends on the specific engine and model. In general, timing chains are designed to last longer than timing belts, often lasting the lifetime of the engine if properly maintained. However, wear and tear, oil quality, and driving conditions can affect their lifespan, and timing chain issues can still arise if not addressed in time.

Here’s a breakdown of general guidelines and service schedules for replacing timing chains on these popular foreign brands:

1. Mercedes-Benz

• Typical Timing Chain Life: 200,000 to 300,000 miles (320,000–480,000 km)

• Recommended Service Intervals:

  • Mercedes doesn't have a specific timing chain replacement schedule because timing chains generally last the life of the engine, but Mercedes recommends regular maintenance (oil changes every 7,500 to 10,000 miles for most models) to keep the chain running smoothly.

  • Issues like chain slack or noise are usually the first indicators of chain wear. If the chain becomes too loose or begins to rattle, it may need to be replaced or serviced.

• Common Timing Chain Issues: Problems may arise due to worn chain guides or tensioners, especially in early 2000s models with V6 and V8 engines (such as the M272 and M273 engines).

Signs you may need to replace the timing chain:

• Rattling noise from the engine, especially at startup.

• Misfires or rough running.

• Check Engine Light (often related to camshaft/crankshaft sensor issues).

2. BMW

• Typical Timing Chain Life: 150,000 to 200,000 miles (240,000–320,000 km)

• Recommended Service Intervals:

  • Similar to Mercedes, BMW doesn't specify exact replacement intervals for timing chains, but the chain is designed to last the life of the engine if maintained properly.

  • Regular oil changes (every 7,500 to 10,000 miles) are important for keeping the timing chain in good condition.

• Common Issues:

  • BMW N52, N54, N55 engines have been known to experience timing chain guide wear around 100,000 miles. The N63 twin-turbo V8 also has timing chain issues after 100,000 miles, often due to stretched chains or damaged tensioners.

Signs you may need to replace the timing chain:

• Rattling noises, especially at startup.

• Poor performance or engine misfire.

• Engine codes related to camshaft/crankshaft sensor.

3. Jaguar

• Typical Timing Chain Life: 150,000 to 200,000 miles (240,000–320,000 km)

• Recommended Service Intervals:

  • Similar to BMW and Mercedes, Jaguar engines are designed to last with regular oil changes and proper maintenance, which helps preserve the timing chain.

  • There's no set interval for replacement, but issues with timing chain guides, tensioners, and chain stretchcan appear as the car reaches 100,000 to 150,000 miles (160,000–240,000 km).

• Common Issues:

  • Jaguar’s AJ-V8 engines and the 3.0L V6 have been known to suffer from timing chain issues around the 100,000-mile mark, often related to tensioners and guides.

Signs you may need to replace the timing chain:

• Rattling or ticking sounds from the engine, especially under load or at idle.

• Engine hesitation or loss of power.

• Check Engine Light (often due to camshaft/crankshaft sensor issues or misfires).

4. Audi

• Typical Timing Chain Life: 150,000 to 200,000 miles (240,000–320,000 km)

• Recommended Service Intervals:

  • Timing chains in Audi vehicles are also designed to last a long time, and Audi recommends regular oil changes (every 10,000 miles) to help keep the chain functioning well.

• Common Issues:

  • The Audi 2.0T (EA888) engine has known issues with timing chain tensioners wearing out, which can lead to chain slack and noise.

  • In the Audi V6 engines (e.g., 3.2L FSI), the timing chain may wear due to guide or tensioner failure, especially as the vehicle hits 100,000 miles.

Signs you may need to replace the timing chain:

• Slapping or rattling sounds from the engine at startup or under load.

• Poor acceleration or rough engine performance.

• Check Engine Light related to timing sensors or misfires.

5. Volkswagen

• Typical Timing Chain Life: 150,000 to 200,000 miles (240,000–320,000 km)

• Recommended Service Intervals:

  • For most modern VW engines (especially the TDI diesel engines and the EA888 gas engines), the timing chain is considered a lifetime part with no set replacement interval.

  • Regular oil changes (every 10,000 miles or so) are crucial to ensure longevity.

• Common Issues:

  • The EA888 engines (found in VW Golf, Passat, and Audi models) are prone to timing chain tensioner failure around 100,000 miles, which can cause chain slack.

Signs you may need to replace the timing chain:

• Rattling noises from the engine, especially under acceleration.

• Engine hesitation or misfires.

• Check Engine Light related to timing sensors

Tune-ups/Oil Changes

If you have an expensive ride, don’t make the mistake of taking it just anywhere. We are specialized to do oil changes on all exotic makes and models!