Most Common Range Rover Timing Chain Issues

The Range Rover model exudes class, style, and luxury. It is designed for a high level of precision and quality, enabling it to find a position at the top of the list of high-performing vehicles globally. However, as high-quality as the design of the Range Rover is, there is still one feature that frequently requires repair on post 2010 models– its timing chains. Some Range Rovers may display timing chain symptoms, and some Range Rover owners will likely encounter this issue throughout the lifetime of their vehicle. Properly maintaining the timing chain of your Range Rover is necessary to keep your vehicle in high performance.

At Westminster Motors, you can trust us with your timing chain replacement. We supply the parts you need for proper, high quality timing chain replacement with efficiency and ease, providing you with stress-free service. Contact us to get started on your timing chain repair scheldued today.

What Does a Timing Chain Do?

For your vehicle to successfully move forwards and backwards, some mechanisms must be in place. The engine plays a large role, and every mechanical car engine contains pistons, which are connected to a crankshaft that rotates in an upward or downward motion.

The camshaft of the engine is installed above the engine’s cylinder in most modern applications, the camshaft is responsible for the opening and closing of the valves into the cylinder in sync with the motion of the pistons. It is the timing chain that synchronizes the rotation of the camshaft and the crankshaft, managing the timing to allow the valves to open and close during each cylinder’s motion. The entire movement of the mechanical components of a vehicle is significantly dependent on the timing chain and its precision. Timing chains look similar to bicycle chains.

Do Range Rovers Have Timing Chains or Timing Belts?

Some range rovers have a timing chain, while others have a timing belt. A timing chain and a timing belt perform the same function: the major difference is their material. The chain is made from steel, while the belt is made from rubber.

Most Common Issues for Range Rovers

The most frequent issue for the Range Rover is abnormal knocking or rattling noises at engine idle speeds. If left unattended, this may result in internal engine malfunction/damage. Note that certain engine noises are considered normal.

Some models of the Land Rover have some peculiarities. For instance Land Rover models including Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, Discovery, Evoque, Velar, Defender LR4 5.0L or 3.0L models are more susceptible to timing chain-related malfunctions. 2010 – 2013 Land Rover ; Jaguars 5.0L or 3.0L engines are more common in have timing chain-related issues.

In response to this problem, the manufacturer has updated certain timing chain-related parts to eliminate premature timing chain system malfunction in these vehicles.

Timing Chain Failure Symptoms and Problems

The timing chain controls piston to valve timing – therefore, if there are anomalies in the timing chain, there may be a collision between the pistons and the valves, leading to mechanical breakdown of the vehicles engine.

Timing Chain Rattle

If you hear an unusual rattling sound coming from your engine when its idling, this might be an indication of a bad timing chain. This signifies that the chain may be stretched casing rattles when the engine is turned on.

Timing chain noise can be caused by a lack of frequent engine oil and filter changes, and by using oils that are not approved by the manufacturer.

Stretched Timing Chain

If a timing chain is stretched, then it has been elongated due to the wear and tear of the chain, timing chain guides and tensioners.

Misfiring Engine

The air-fuel ratio might suffer some imbalance, leading to a lack of power which is usually displayed by a jerking motion.

Contaminated Oil

When engine oil starts becoming contaminated with metal parts, there may be a problem with the timing chain.

Other signs that you might need to replace the timing chain but not limited to are:

● A “Performance Restricted” message appears on the message center

● The “Engine” light remains on

● The “Engine” light flashes indicating a misfire condition; internal engine damage may occur soon.

What Causes a Timing Chain to Break?

Over time, the components of all vehicles will suffer some failures due to continuous usage. Proper maintenance of components can prolong the functionality of your vehicle. If the chain is under-tensioned, it can become slack. If it is over-tensioned, it will suffer from excessive friction and heat.

Also, when a timing chain drive-related component begins to malfunction, it causes the chain to jump resulting in internal engine damage. Lack of engine oil pressure due to low engine oil level and mechanical vacuum pump seizing on 5.0L or 3.0L are other causes of failure.

How to Stop Timing Chain Noise

When it becomes faulty, your chain noise will certainly alert you. If the chain is faulty, the only solution is to get a timing chain replacement. However, some practices that can help you preventing noise include:

● Adhering to the manufacturer’s recommended service interval guidelines.

● Cutting oil change intervals in half for vehicles mainly used in inner-city driving or extreme climates.

● Using only fluids recommended by the manufacturer.

Timing Chain Replacement Procedures and Cost

Replacing a timing chain along with the timing chain drive components may be a noticeable investment.

Here is a summary of the steps of a timing chain replacement:

● Cleaning the engine

● Disassembling necessary parts of the engine, such as the coolant system, drive belts, water pump, fuel system and so on.

● Removing the cover of the timing chain

● Loosening the tensioners, gear, sprockets, guides and removing the chain

● Lubricating the gear in preparation for the new chain

● Installing the new chain

● Recoupling all disassembled parts with new seals & gaskets.

● Reconnecting disconnected parts, replacing the engine oil/filter and restarting the engine

All performed as per Land Rovers Workshop repair manual procedures and guidelines.

FAQs

● What other parts should be checked and replaced based on mileage when disassembling the chain?

All timing chain-related components should be replaced, including the camshaft, sprockets, tensioners, guides, oil jets, and fixing hardware. It is advisable to replace non-timing chain-related parts during the timing chain replacement procedure, such as cooling system hoses and plastic manifolds.

● What is required to find out the price of my order? What is the approximate starting price?

Pricing is subjective to specific vehicle requirements and is quoted on individual requests. $5,500 - $8,500 is a typical price range, depending on the model.

● What models can be serviced at Westminster Motors for timing chain replacement?

Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, LR4, Evoque, Discovery, Discovery Sport, Defender and Velar models including Jaguars can all be serviced at Westminster Motors.