Jaguar is a brand that is well known for producing stylish sports cars that are the pinnacle of luxury. These cars are safe, reliable, and sleek, but one known issue with Jaguars has to do with the timing chain.

A timing chain is located near the front of the engine and is attached to a set of mechanical parts that help components like the crankshaft and camshaft function. The timing chain’s job is to rotate around the gears in a smooth fashion, which then allows the engine to fire. As with any car part, the timing chain can wear down over time and must be replaced before a certain mileage as recommended by the manufacturer.

The timing chain consists of a pattern of links that move along toothed sprockets on the ends of the crankshaft and camshaft. The main function of these links is to open and close the valves located in the cylinder head and help power the pistons and connecting rods in the combustion process.

When the timing chain wears out, the engine’s timing is no longer accurate and can lead to bigger issues if not replaced. If the timing chain fails, either the camshafts and crankshafts go out of sync or the pistons and valves run into each other. Neither is a good thing to happen to your vehicle and can potentially cause engine failure.

Negative Effects of Timing Chain Failure

Before the timing chain fails, you may hear a strange noise caused by a very loose or worn down timing chain. Damage to the engine from the valves hitting the piston can cause engine failure, which can be extremely dangerous if out on a busy highway.

There are a few warning signs to pay attention to that could signal that your Jaguar’s timing chain needs to be replaced:

  • Engine misfires: The timing chain is prone to stretching or loosening, which in turn can cause the chain to skip a gear on the crankshaft and camshaft. This may cause an engine misfire, or cause the engine to run poorly and not accelerate or decelerate very well.
  • Debris in oil: If you find small metal shavings when changing your oil, it could mean that your timing chain is worn out. Metal shavings can also accumulate on other components of the vehicle, so it is important to keep a keen eye out for any bits of chain pieces.
  • Engine fails to start: If your chain is completely broken, your engine likely will not even start. If it breaks while driving, your engine could fail in the middle of the road, which is dangerous for you and those around your car.
  • Engine idles roughly: Any time your engine seems to be having a hard time running, it is time to take it into a trusted mechanic. There could be a variety of reasons for a rough-idling engine, and a broken timing chain may be what’s wrong. Leave it to the experts to diagnose.
  • Check engine light: Similar to what we’ve stated above, the check engine light could also mean a variety of different things. Any time there could be a potential engine problem and this light comes on, take your car in for services.

If your European vehicle requires service, schedule an appointment with our technicians today and let us address your issues immediately! Foreign Affairs is located at 1681 N Military Trail, West Palm Beach, FL 33409.