Jaguar vehicles have been designed with superb performance and recognizable style in mind. To remain in their optimal condition, special care and routine maintenance have to be administered to your Jaguar.

Even with this rigorous care, there will be parts that unexpectedly fail. One such component is the timing chain tensioner. Keep reading to find out more about what the function of the timing chain tensioner, the signs to look for if it has failed, and how to deal with the failure.

The Function of the Timing Chain Tensioner

Before describing the function of the timing chain tensioner, the timing belt has to be explained.

The timing belt is responsible for synchronizing the timing between the opening and closing of the engine valves, specifically the camshaft and crankshaft.

These valves have to be timed perfectly to ensure that the fuel injections are accurate and that the byproducts of combustion are released. Some Jaguars will have a timing belt and some will have a timing chain. Either way, they perform in the same way.

The timing chain tensioner is responsible for putting the appropriate pressure or tension onto the timing chain so it can be properly controlled. This successfully synchronizes the engine valves.

Depending on the model of Jaguar you drive, the timing chain tensioner will apply the required tension through either spring tension or hydraulic pressure. When this system begins to fail, the synchrony between engine valves is not maintained, leading to engine malfunctions.

Signs of Timing Chain Tensioner Failure

The first sign of failure of the timing chain tensioner is rattling coming from under the hood. When the timing chain tensioner starts to fail, it will produce a decreased amount of pressure. This pressure is what is required to keep the timing chain in place. Without it, the timing chain comes loose.

Once this happens, the timing chain starts to rattle as it circulates because it is no longer secured in place. The rattling is the sound of the timing chain hitting other pieces of metal. This leads to deterioration of the timing chain and the parts in the engine that surround it.

Another sign to be aware of if the timing chain tensioner has failed is the engine of your Jaguar failing to turn over. As previously noted, the timing belt controls the camshaft and crankshaft which are responsible for help with starting the engine. When synchronization of these valves does not happen, the combustion of the fuel to air mix cannot occur, leading to a no-start condition of your Jaguar.

One last sign that indicates timing chain failure is an engine misfire. If the tensioner is not providing the necessary pressure, the timing chain cannot provide synchronization. This will cause premature combustion.

Premature combustion leads to engine misfires, because the combustion occurs sooner than the engine required. So instead of putting this combustion to use, it disrupts the process and causes misfires.

How to Deal With Timing Chain Tensioner Failure

Now that you know what signs to look for that indicated timing chain tensioner failure, it is time to address the issue. In a majority of cases, the only way to ensure that you no longer have issues with the timing chain tensioner is by having the system replaced. The timing chain should also be replaced because it has most likely suffered damage due to the timing chain tensioner.

When replacing these parts, the parts around the system also need to be inspected for damage. For example, the water pump is attached to the timing chain, so you will want to make sure no damage has occurred to that system as well.

Trust Glenwood Foreign Car for Timing Chain Tensioner Repairs

As you can see, there are plenty of parts that need to be inspected and potentially replaced when the timing chain tensioner fails in your Jaguar. To ensure that the repairs are done correctly, the best place to take your Jaguar is Glenwood Foreign Car.

We are easily accessible from the areas of Upper Makefield Township, Yardley, Newtown, and Morrisville, PA. When you bring your Jaguar into us at your scheduled appointment time, one of our trained and certified technicians will perform a thorough diagnostic and inspection of your vehicle. Once they properly identify the parts that need replacing, high-quality parts are used in the replacement. You and your Jaguar will be back on the road in no time with a brand new timing chain tensioner.

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