Metallic timing noise on start-up: what does it mean?

A metallic rattle during the first few seconds after a cold start, which then disappears or fades, is typical of a stretched timing chain or a tensioner that is not holding pressure.

Metallic timing noise on start-up: what should you do?

Do not ignore it: a chain that jumps teeth can destroy the engine. Ask for the chain stretch to be measured or the tensioner position to be checked.

Metallic timing noise on start-up: which faults cause it?

The most important among the documented faults: wear and breakage of the 7 mm chain between the camshafts, in the 1.5 BlueHDi; timing chain stretch and tensioner failure (EA111), in the 1.2 and 1.4 TSI; rear timing chain stretch and breakage, in the BMW N47; timing chain stretch and tensioner failure, in the OM651 and the 1.3 Multijet; timing chain stretch, in the 2.0 Ingenium diésel, the 1.6 CRDi and the 2.0 / 2.4 GDI and T-GDI (Theta II); degradation of the timing belt running in oil, in the 1.0 EcoBoost; timing chain and tensioner wear, in the BMW N13 and the 2.0 TSI / TFSI; timing chain guide and tensioner wear (2011-2015), in the BMW N20.

Timing Chain Rattle on Start-Up: Symptoms and Cost

Most common causes

From most to least likely according to the sources. Under each cause, the part and the related OBD codes.

1. Hydraulic tensioner slow to regain oil pressure
Common cause
Todoaditivos attributes the dry rattle of a few seconds when cold to the hydraulic tensioner, which loses pressure while stopped and takes time to regain it; Correa-cadena.com adds that the tensioner depends on oil pressure to tension the chain. If it lasts a couple of seconds and doesn't increase, it is enough to keep an eye on it.^[1][2]
Faults with with the timing chain
2. Chain stretched by wear or lack of maintenance
Common cause
Diariomotor explains that, with high temperatures and wear, the chain lengthens and slack appears. RACE (Spain's motoring club) adds that a badly designed chain tends to stretch and that unsuitable oil can speed this up; when it slackens, it hits the cover, which is a warning to get it checked.^[3][4][5]
Faults with with the timing chain
3. Deteriorated guides or pads
Possible cause
Diariomotor mentions the pads and guides (generally plastic) among the important parts alongside the tensioner, and Correa-cadena.com points out that degraded guides let the chain rub against the supports and produce a continuous squeal.^[2][3]
Faults with with the timing chain
4. Lubrication problem: degraded oil, low level or long intervals
Possible cause
Diariomotor reminds us that a lubrication failure can trigger tensioner malfunction and chain breakage; RACE points to oil as a possible cause of stretching and Correa-cadena.com points to accelerated wear with long intervals between changes.^[2][3][4]
Faults with with the timing chain Faults with with oil consumption
5. Engine design or family with problematic tensioners
Possible cause
Diariomotor documents chain breakages on the BMW N47 due to a faulty tensioner, and Gtautos cites specific engine families (BMW/MINI, some 1.2 and 1.4 TSI of the VW group, some Mercedes) with documented cases. This does not mean every unit fails.^[3][6]
Faults with with the timing chain
6. Noise that isn't the timing: tappets, exhaust or mounts
Uncommon
Todoaditivos distinguishes the tensioner rattle from the fast ticking at the top of the engine (hydraulic tappets that take time to fill with oil), which is normal if it disappears within seconds.^[1]

Depending on what you notice

Metallic rattle for the first few seconds after a cold start

Todoaditivos says that if it lasts a couple of seconds and doesn't increase, it is enough to keep an eye on it; Correa-cadena.com describes it as the most common symptom of a fatigued chain, which usually disappears as oil pressure rises.^[1][2]

The noise continues when the engine is warm

Correa-cadena.com maintains that a rattle that persists after the temperature rises indicates advanced wear requiring immediate replacement; Todoaditivos agrees that if the noise is permanent, the chain or tensioner is at its limit.^[1][2]

Jingling at idle that gets worse at around 1,500 rpm

Diariomotor calls it one of the most reliable indicators of a stretched chain, along with excessive vibration, metal particles in the oil or poor engine running.^[3]

Squealing or rubbing at high revs

Correa-cadena.com associates it with a stretched chain rubbing against cracked or broken guides, and mentions a high-pitched whine at mid-throttle that may come from a tensioner roller with a worn bearing.^[2]

Vibrations or jerking from the engine at idle

Correa-cadena.com says that excessive chain play causes jolts in the transmission of movement between crankshaft and camshaft, noticeable in the steering wheel. Diariomotor also cites excessive vibration as a symptom of slack.^[2][3]

Engine warning light on with code P0016

Correa-cadena.com links code P0016 with a loss of synchronisation between crankshaft and camshaft, a sign of critical stretching or a jumped tooth. It is a commercial source: confirm the code at the garage before drawing conclusions.^[2]

What to check first

Note when it makes the noise and for how long: only when cold and for a couple of seconds (can be monitored) or also with the engine warm, at idle or under load (get it checked now).^[1][2]
Check the level and condition of the oil and keep to the change intervals, because the tensioner on most chains works on oil pressure.^[3][4]
Ask for the fault codes to be read: P0016 points to an incorrect correlation between crankshaft and camshaft.^[2]
Ask the garage to measure the chain stretch and check the tensioner, guides and pads; if the chain needs replacing, it is best to replace the complete kit (chain, tensioner and pads).^[3][4]
Look for metal particles in the oil and check whether the model or engine has known chain problems or a recall campaign.^[3][6]

Can I keep driving?

Urgency: Garage soon

A brief rattle when cold that doesn't get worse can be monitored, according to Todoaditivos, but if it lasts longer, happens every day or persists with the engine warm, the timing must be checked without delay: Diariomotor explains that, in an interference engine, loss of synchronisation makes pistons and valves collide and get damaged, and RACE says the engine can stop working. A persistent noise therefore justifies going to the garage as soon as possible and avoiding more miles than necessary.^[1][3][4]

How much it costs to fix

Indicative prices published by the sources cited; they depend on the car and the garage.

Repair	Price
Replacing tensioner, chain and pads on an ordinary car: Diariomotor says it shouldn't exceed €1,000 (a maximum figure, not a range)^[3]	€0 – €1,000
Replacing tensioner and chain on the BMW N47, where the engine has to come out (Diariomotor)^[3]	€1,000 – €2,500
Timing chain repair, Correa-cadena.com range (commercial source)^[2]	€800 – €2,500

Documented faults that cause it

Specific engine and gearbox faults, from most to least important (severity × frequency). Below each title, how the symptom shows up in that fault.

- Critical severityFrequency: Very frequent1.5 BlueHDiWear and breakage of the 7 mm chain between the camshaftsMetallic noise or rattle from the top of the engine, clearer at start-up or at low revs.Repair (garage): €730–€820
Source for the symptom in the 1.5 BlueHDi^[7][8]
- Critical severityFrequency: Very frequent1.2 and 1.4 TSITiming chain stretch and tensioner failure (EA111)Rattling or metallic scraping during the first few seconds after a cold start, which settles down as oil pressure rises.Repair (garage): €700–€1,400Appears at around 30,000 km
Source for the symptom in the 1.2 and 1.4 TSI^[9][10]
- Critical severityFrequency: Very frequentBMW N47Rear timing chain stretch and breakageA metallic rattle or ticking in the first few seconds after a cold start, especially noticeable at around 1,000-1,500 rpm, which usually fades as the engine warms up.Repair (garage): €1,590–€3,000Appears at around 50,000 km
Source for the symptom in the BMW N47^[11][12][13]
- Critical severityFrequency: Very frequentOM651Timing chain stretch and tensioner failureA metallic rattle or clatter on a cold start that fades after a few seconds; according to several sources, it is the first warning sign.Repair (garage): €2,000–€3,500Appears at around 120,000 km
Source for the symptom in the OM651^[14][15][16]
- Critical severityFrequency: Very frequent2.0 Ingenium diéselTiming chain stretchMetallic rattling or clattering in the first few seconds after a cold start: this is the warning sign cited both by owner reports and by a German technical guide specialising in this engine.Repair (garage): €4,000–€7,000Appears at around 90,000 km
Source for the symptom in the 2.0 Ingenium diésel^[17][18]
- Critical severityFrequency: Common1.0 EcoBoostDegradation of the timing belt running in oilSome garages describe squealing, rattling noises or a rough idle before the final failure.Repair (garage): €800–€1,200
Source for the symptom in the 1.0 EcoBoost^[19]
- Critical severityFrequency: Common1.3 MultijetTiming chain stretch and tensioner failureMetallic rattling on a cold start, which gets worse as the tensioner loses its ability to keep the chain tight.Repair (garage): €350–€550Appears at around 70,000 km
Source for the symptom in the 1.3 Multijet^[20][21]
- Critical severityFrequency: Common1.6 CRDiTiming chain stretchMetallic rattle, especially when cold, that gets worse as the chain stretches.Appears at around 120,000 km
Source for the symptom in the 1.6 CRDi^[22][23]
- Critical severityFrequency: CommonBMW N13Timing chain and tensioner wearMetallic rattle in the first seconds after a cold start, typical of a worn chain or tensioner.
Source for the symptom in the BMW N13^[24]
- Critical severityFrequency: CommonBMW N20Timing chain guide and tensioner wear (2011-2015)Metallic rattle in the first few seconds after a cold start, typical of a worn guide or tensioner.Appears at around 129,000 km
Source for the symptom in the BMW N20^[25]
- Critical severityFrequency: CommonBMW N43/N46Wear and breakage of the timing chain guidesMetallic rattle on a cold start and on load changes, a sign that the guide or tensioner has lost its geometry.
Source for the symptom in the BMW N43/N46^[26][27][28]
- Critical severityFrequency: CommonBMW N57Rear timing chain wearA brief metallic rattle in the first seconds after a cold start, the same type of warning as on the N47.
Source for the symptom in the BMW N57^[29]
- Critical severityFrequency: Common1.5 / 2.0 EcoBlueDegradation of the wet timing belt (2.0 EcoBlue)Abnormal noises in the timing area as the belt degrades.
Source for the symptom in the 1.5 / 2.0 EcoBlue^[30]
- Critical severityFrequency: Common2.3 MZR DISI TurboTiming chain stretch and VVT actuator failure on the 2.3 DISI TurboA metallic rattle or clatter on a cold start, which Totalrenting identifies as a typical symptom of a stretched chain.Appears at around 100,000 km
Source for the symptom in the 2.3 MZR DISI Turbo^[31]
- Critical severityFrequency: CommonMZR-CDTiming chain stretch on the 2.2 MZR-CDA metallic rattle on a cold start, which gebrauchtwagenberater.de describes as a warning that the chain has lengthened, is usually the first sign.
Source for the symptom in the MZR-CD^[32]
- Critical severityFrequency: CommonM271Timing chain stretch and wear of the camshaft sprocketsMetallic rattle on a cold start, typical of a chain that has started to stretch.
Source for the symptom in the M271^[33]
- Critical severityFrequency: CommonM272/M273Wear of the balance shaft gear and the timing sprocketsMetallic rattle on start-up from the timing side, in the most advanced units.
Source for the symptom in the M272/M273^[34][35]
- Critical severityFrequency: CommonOM654Timing chain wear or breakage (2016 to 2021 units)Metallic noise or rattling from the chain, especially when cold, as it starts to wear.
Source for the symptom in the OM654^[36]
- Critical severityFrequency: Common2.5 dCi YD25Timing chain wear and failureA rattle or jingle under the bonnet, especially on start-up.Appears at around 100,000 km
Source for the symptom in the 2.5 dCi YD25^[37][38]
- Critical severityFrequency: Common1.0/1.2/1.4 EcotecTiming chain stretch and breakageMetallic rattling from the chain, especially in the first few seconds after a cold start, when the tensioner no longer maintains the correct tension.Repair (garage): €900–€1,400Appears at around 70,000 km
Source for the symptom in the 1.0/1.2/1.4 Ecotec^[39][40]
- Critical severityFrequency: Common1.6 THPTiming chain and tensioner stretch (turbo versions, before 2012)Metallic rattle in the first seconds after a cold start, typical of a worn chain or tensioner.
Source for the symptom in the 1.6 THP^[39]
- Critical severityFrequency: CommonD4/D5Auxiliary belt breakage that takes the timing belt with it (5-cylinder)Metallic or rubbing noise around the auxiliary belt before it breaks.
Source for the symptom in the D4/D5^[41]
- Critical severityFrequency: Common1.2 12VTiming chain stretch and tensioner wearMetallic noise or rattle from the chain, especially on a cold start or when lifting off the accelerator, as Gebrauchtwagenberater.de describes for the Volkswagen Polo IV.Appears at around 87,000 km
Source for the symptom in the 1.2 12V^[42]
- High severityFrequency: Very frequent1.6 HDiTiming belt failure and premature wearA rubbing noise or the noise of a poorly tensioned belt in the timing area.
Source for the symptom in the 1.6 HDi^[43][44]
- High severityFrequency: CommonPorsche V8 and V6 (Cayenne and Panamera)Timing chain stretch on the Cayenne VR6 V6 enginesA loose chain usually gives itself away with metallic noise in the first seconds after a cold start; the VR6 sources do not detail the symptom, and a German workshop describes it this way for the V8 chain.
Source for the symptom in the Porsche V8 and V6 (Cayenne and Panamera)^[45][46]
- Critical severityFrequency: Occasional1.5 dCiPremature timing belt failureA worn belt can produce squealing, rhythmic knocking or abnormal vibrations, although with these premature failures there is not always a warning.
Source for the symptom in the 1.5 dCi^[47]
- Critical severityFrequency: Occasional2.0 TSI / TFSITiming chain and tensioner wearMetallic rattling during the first few seconds after a cold start, which fades as oil pressure rises.
Source for the symptom in the 2.0 TSI / TFSI^[48]
- Critical severityFrequency: Occasional1.6 and 2.0 MultiJet IIEarly tensioner wear and risk of timing belt failureA flapping or rubbing noise on cold start when the tensioner begins to lose pressure.Repair (garage): €420–€550Appears at around 90,000 km
Source for the symptom in the 1.6 and 2.0 MultiJet II^[49]
- Critical severityFrequency: Occasional1.6 / 2.2 i-DTECTiming chain wear or breakage at high mileageA metallic noise around the timing area is the typical warning of wear in chain-driven engines before a major failure, although the testimony consulted for this engine mainly documents the end result of the breakage.Appears at around 145,000 km
Source for the symptom in the 1.6 / 2.2 i-DTEC^[50]
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalTDV6 / SDV6Broken oil pump housing and timing belt jumping on the 2.7No reliable advance warning; the failure is usually sudden and the engine stops.
Source for the symptom in the TDV6 / SDV6^[51][52]
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalOM642Rear timing chain wear and tensioner failureMetallic scraping or rattling noise when cold, near the gearbox, as the engine starts.Repair (garage): €3,500–€5,000Appears at around 300,000 km
Source for the symptom in the OM642^[53]
- Critical severityFrequency: Occasional1.4/1.6 VTiWear of the timing chain and tensionerMetallic rattle in the first few seconds after a cold start, typical of a worn chain or tensioner.
Source for the symptom in the 1.4/1.6 VTi^[24]
- Critical severityFrequency: Occasional0.9 TCeTiming chain or tensioner failureMetallic noise on cold start, linked by the source to the timing drive, the lambda sensor or the phaser (dephaseur).
Source for the symptom in the 0.9 TCe^[54][55]
- Critical severityFrequency: Occasional2.0 dCiTiming chain wear or breakageMetallic rattle for the first few seconds after a cold start, typical of a chain that has lost tension.
Source for the symptom in the 2.0 dCi^[56]
- High severityFrequency: Occasional1.2 TCeTiming chain stretch and breakageAbnormal engine noise; this is the sign that leads the workshop to check the tensioner and measure compression.
Source for the symptom in the 1.2 TCe^[57][58]
- High severityFrequency: Occasional1.6 TDITiming belt and water pumpMetallic noise in the belt area if the pulley or the tensioner starts to fail.Repair (garage): €400–€1,500
Source for the symptom in the 1.6 TDI^[59]
- High severityFrequency: OccasionalAudi 3.0 TFSI V6Timing chain stretch and tensioner wearChain rattle for two to five seconds after a cold start.
Source for the symptom in the Audi 3.0 TFSI V6^[60][61]
- High severityFrequency: OccasionalBMW B47Timing chain wear (improved, but is it really at the front?)Metallic rattling in the first seconds after a cold start, the same type of warning as on the N47 although much less common.
Source for the symptom in the BMW B47^[62]
- High severityFrequency: Occasional1.6 CDTINoise and early wear of the timing chain and its tensionerHeavy metallic rattle on a cold start; in the Mokka X case it forced replacement of the chain tensioner at only 9,200 km.
Source for the symptom in the 1.6 CDTI^[63]
- High severityFrequency: OccasionalPorsche V8 and V6 (Cayenne and Panamera)Timing chain and tensioner wear on the 4.8 V8Brief chain rattle on a cold start after standing overnight, because the hydraulic tensioner loses oil.
Source for the symptom in the Porsche V8 and V6 (Cayenne and Panamera)^[46]
- High severityFrequency: Occasional1.4 HDiTiming belt and water pumpNew noises or rubbing in the timing area at idle, especially if the belt or tensioners are worn.
Source for the symptom in the 1.4 HDi^[64]
- High severityFrequency: Occasional1.4 and 1.6 8vTiming belt breakage or failureAbnormal noise from the timing area in cases where the tensioner or the belt itself starts to fail before breaking completely.
Source for the symptom in the 1.4 and 1.6 8v^[65]
- High severityFrequency: Occasional1.4 and 1.6 16vTiming belt breakage or premature failureAbnormal noise around the timing area in cases where the tensioner or the belt itself starts to fail before breaking completely.Appears at around 89,000 km
Source for the symptom in the 1.4 and 1.6 16v^[66]
- High severityFrequency: Occasional3.0 TDI V6Timing chain stretch and tensioner wearMetallic rattle or knocking on a cold start and on load changes, which is the warning the guides and workshops cite.
Source for the symptom in the 3.0 TDI V6^[67][68][69]
- Critical severityFrequency: Rare2.2 TD4 / SD4Timing belt failure and water pump failureNoise from the timing drive or a leak at the water pump; if the belt breaks, the engine stops.
Source for the symptom in the 2.2 TD4 / SD4^[70][71]
- Critical severityFrequency: Rare2.2/2.5 dCiTiming chain wearA metallic rattle on a cold start, typical of a chain that has lost tension, although it is a poorly documented symptom in the reports consulted for this particular engine.
Source for the symptom in the 2.2/2.5 dCi^[72]
- Critical severityFrequency: Rare2.0 MR20DE / 2.5 QR25DETiming chain stretch on the 2.0 MR20DEA generic technical page on the MR20DE associates chain noise with an unstable idle and loss of power; the German guide does not describe a prior warning, only the final damage.
Source for the symptom in the 2.0 MR20DE / 2.5 QR25DE^[73][74]
- Medium severityFrequency: Occasional1.25/1.4/1.6 Ti-VCTTi-VCT actuator or solenoid valve failure on the early unitsMetallic rattle around the timing area, especially on start-up, when the actuator fails to lock the camshaft phase.
Source for the symptom in the 1.25/1.4/1.6 Ti-VCT^[75]
- Medium severityFrequency: Occasional1.6 DIG-TTiming chain wear and noiseA rattle or metallic clatter on cold start that fades as the engine warms up, typical of a chain with slack.
Source for the symptom in the 1.6 DIG-T^[76][77]
- Medium severityFrequency: Occasional2.0 16v F4R and F4RTFaulty camshaft variable valve timing pulleyNoise from the timing area on starting or with the engine warm.
Source for the symptom in the 2.0 16v F4R and F4RT^[78]
- Medium severityFrequency: Occasional1.4 and 1.6 16vVariable valve timing unit failure (dephaser pulley)Metallic knocking or "claquement" around the timing area on start-up, described by the sources as linked to the variable valve timing unit's pulley.
Source for the symptom in the 1.4 and 1.6 16v^[79]
- Medium severityFrequency: Occasional1.8 T 20vTiming chain tensioner noise and wearChain noise in the timing area, described by the owner of the affected Passat after the tensioner had not been replaced.
Source for the symptom in the 1.8 T 20v^[80]
- High severityFrequency: RareBMW B48 / B38Timing chain on the early units (2014-2018), redesigned in the B48TUOn any engine with a timing chain, a metallic rattle in the first seconds after a cold start is the classic warning sign; we have found no documented cases of this symptom reported specifically for the B48.
Source for the symptom in the BMW B48 / B38^[81]
- High severityFrequency: RareBMW B57Timing chain wear on the gearbox sideA brief metallic rattle after a cold start.
Source for the symptom in the BMW B57^[82]
- High severityFrequency: Rare2.0 / 2.4 GDI and T-GDI (Theta II)Timing chain stretchMetallic rattling on starting or when changing load (accelerating or lifting off the pedal), a sign of a stretched chain according to the Sorento XM guide.
Source for the symptom in the 2.0 / 2.4 GDI and T-GDI (Theta II)^[83]
- High severityFrequency: Rare1.8/2.2 DI-DBalance shaft failure on the Outlander's 2.2 DI-DA metallic or knocking noise in the timing area may point to a defective balance shaft.
Source for the symptom in the 1.8/2.2 DI-D^[84]
- Medium severityFrequency: Rare2.0 and 3.0 Ingenium gasolinaTiming chain and VCT unit noise on the 2.0 petrolMetallic rattle or ticking from the timing side, especially on a cold start.
Source for the symptom in the 2.0 and 3.0 Ingenium gasolina^[85][86]
- Medium severityFrequency: RareM270/M274Timing chain and tensioner: a strong point compared with earlier enginesIf abnormal wear did occur, the first expected symptom would be a metallic rattle when cold, as in other chain-driven engines, although the sources do not describe specific cases of this symptom for the M270/M274.
Source for the symptom in the M270/M274^[87][88]
- Medium severityFrequency: Rare1.4 HDiCrankshaft damper pulley wearNoise or rattling in the timing area if the pulley loses its original geometry.
Source for the symptom in the 1.4 HDi^[64]
- Medium severityFrequency: Rare1.2 16vTiming belt: preventive maintenance and the odd failureAbnormal noise around the timing area if the belt or the rollers are worn.
Source for the symptom in the 1.2 16v^[89]
- Low severityFrequency: Rare1.2 8v FireTiming belt: preventive replacement, no documented breakage patternMetallic timing noise on start-up if the belt or tensioner is badly worn; this is not a symptom the sources describe as common on this engine.
Source for the symptom in the 1.2 8v Fire^[90][91][92]
- Low severityFrequency: Rare1.6 16v HR16DE / H4MNo documented pattern of chain, catalytic converter or coil failuresIf a cold chain rattle appears it is worth checking, as on any chain-driven engine, but it is not a documented pattern in the accounts consulted for this block.
Source for the symptom in the 1.6 16v HR16DE / H4M^[93][94]
- Low severityFrequency: Rare1.0 SCe (B4D)Chain-driven timing: no documented pattern of faultsMetallic timing noise on starting; it is not a symptom that the sources consulted describe as usual on this engine.
Source for the symptom in the 1.0 SCe (B4D)^[95][96][97]
- Low severityFrequency: Rare1.0 and 1.4 BoosterjetTiming chain: no documented pattern of failuresThis would be the expected symptom if the chain were to slacken or stretch, but none of the sources consulted for this engine describes it.
Source for the symptom in the 1.0 and 1.4 Boosterjet^[98][99]
- Low severityFrequency: Rare1.0 MPITiming belt with no fixed replacement intervalMetallic timing noise on starting; it is not a symptom that the sources we consulted describe as typical of this engine.
Source for the symptom in the 1.0 MPI^{[100][101][102][103][104]}

Which cars it appears in

These faults affect 62 engines. We have documented 396 models from 34 makes with some of the affected versions: open yours to see all its faults.

Engines

Cars with the affected versions

Alfa Romeo

Dacia

DS

Fiat

See all Fiat models

Ford

See all Ford models

Honda

Hyundai

Infiniti

Jaguar

Jeep

Kia

Lancia

Land Rover

See all Land Rover models

Mazda

Mercedes-Benz

See all Mercedes-Benz models

MINI

Mitsubishi

Nissan

See all Nissan models

Opel

See all Opel models

Peugeot

See all Peugeot models

Porsche

Renault

See all Renault models

Seat

See all Seat models

Škoda

See all Škoda models

Smart

Suzuki

See all Suzuki models

Toyota

Volkswagen

See all Volkswagen models

Volvo

See all Volvo models

Chain noise: causes in your car

396 cars have several documented faults that cause this symptom. Choose yours to see only those that affect it, by engine and by year.

Alfa Romeo 3

Audi 27

BMW 34

Chevrolet 1

Chevrolet Aveo II

Chrysler 1

Chrysler 300C

Citroën 21

Dacia 8

DS 6

Fiat 13

Ford 24

Honda 6

Hyundai 6

Infiniti 2

Jaguar 5

Jeep 3

Kia 8

Lancia 3

Land Rover 10

Mazda 6

Mercedes-Benz 31

MINI 6

Mitsubishi 2

Nissan 19

Opel 22

Peugeot 24

Porsche 4

Renault 23

Seat 13

Škoda 13

Smart 2

Suzuki 10

Toyota 2

Volkswagen 26

Volvo 12

Chain noise by brand

Fault codes that may go with it

If you have an OBD reader, the code stored by the control unit helps you work out which system is failing.

Frequently asked questions

Why does the timing chain rattle on a cold start?

Todoaditivos and Correa-cadena.com agree that the hydraulic tensioner depends on oil pressure: with the engine stopped, the oil drains to the sump and the tensioner takes a few seconds to regain tension, so the chain is slack and rattles.^[1][2]

Is a chain noise only when cold serious?

Todoaditivos considers it something to monitor if it lasts a couple of seconds and doesn't increase, but asks for it to be checked if it lasts longer or happens every day, and speaks of the chain or tensioner being at their limit if the noise is permanent.^[1]

What happens if the timing chain breaks?

Diariomotor explains that, in a non-interference engine, it simply stops; in interference engines, the great majority today, the pistons hit the valves and valves, pistons and cylinders are damaged. RACE adds that synchronisation is lost and the engine is ruined.^[3][4]

How often does the timing chain need replacing?

RACE says that in theory it can last the whole life of the engine, and Diariomotor that it should exceed 300,000 km; preventive replacement, or at least an inspection, is recommended on high-mileage, hard-worked cars, taxis or vans.^[3][4]

How much does it cost to replace the timing chain?

Diariomotor says that on most cars it shouldn't exceed €1,000 with tensioner, chain and pads, and that on the BMW N47, where the engine has to come out, it can reach €2,500. Correa-cadena.com, a commercial source, gives €800-2,500. These are prices in Spain.^[2][3]

What fault code does a stretched chain leave?

Correa-cadena.com cites P0016, incorrect correlation between crankshaft and camshaft; not every case leaves it, and the absence of a code does not rule out the problem.^[2]

Other symptoms: noises

All symptoms

Sources

Every fact on this page links to its source. If you find an error, let us know.

El motor hace ruido en frío: qué es cada ruido y cuál preocupaTodoaditivos · Other source · consulted 29 October 2026 · in Spanish
Ruido cadena de distribución: detectar el desgaste del motorCorrea-cadena.com · Other source · published 22 January 2026 · consulted 29 October 2026 · in Spanish
Las graves (y costosas) averías que puede causar en tu coche la rotura de la cadena de distribuciónDiariomotor · Motoring press · published 17 July 2020 · consulted 29 October 2026 · in Spanish
Cadena de distribución del coche: ¿qué es, cada cuánto se cambia y cuál es su precio?RACE · Motoring press · published 19 October 2022 · consulted 29 October 2026 · in Spanish
¿El motor diésel de tu coche emite un ruido y un traqueteo?RACE · Motoring press · published 22 June 2023 · consulted 29 October 2026 · in Spanish
Problemas en la cadena de distribución: casos comunes y cuánto cuesta repararlaGtautos · Other source · published 22 December 2025 · consulted 29 October 2026 · in Spanish
Cobertura especial para los 1.5 BlueHDi del Grupo Stellantiscoches.net · Motoring press · published 3 July 2025 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
Stellantis llama a revisión al motor diésel 1.5 BlueHDi: ¿cuál es el problema y cuál la solución?coches.com · Motoring press · published 28 July 2025 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
Bei älteren VW 1.2 TSi-Motoren: Gefahr einer Längung der Steuerkettefebi bilstein (blog técnico) · Technical documentation · published 28 January 2022 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in German
Problema en la distribución en motores TSi del Grupo VAGBlog Mecánicos · Other source · published 13 February 2014 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
El problema de la cadena de distribución en los motores N47 de BMWSeis en Línea · Motoring press · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
Problema cadena BMW motor N47, qué hacer y solucionesRecomotor Blog · Motoring press · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
Precio sustitución cadenas motor N47 BMW MINIArroyo Auto, Especialista BMW MINI · Technical documentation · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
Mercedes OM651 : injecteurs, chaîne, fiabilitéAutoCopilot · Motoring press · published 2026 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in French
Mercedes W447: Vito & V-Klasse – Motoren und ProblemeKFZ Dietrich · Motoring press · consulted 26 September 2026 · in German
Mercedes OM651: Typische Probleme und HaltbarkeitGebrauchtwagenberater · Motoring press · consulted 26 September 2026 · in German
Jaguar F-Pace (X761) – Typische Probleme & SchwachstellenGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · published 27 March 2024 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
Jaguar XE – Bekannte Probleme, Schwachstellen & RückrufeGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · published 5 September 2022 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
A Guide to Wet Timing Belts for Ford EcoBoost 1L EnginesWheelbase Garage · Other source · consulted 26 September 2026
Quando sostituire la catena di distribuzione sul 1.3 Multijet: riconoscere i sintomiRettifica Pompeo · Technical documentation · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Italian
Fiat 1.3 JTD/Multijet: corrente folgada e entupimento dos canais de lubrificaçãoProvmec · Technical documentation · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Portuguese
Motor Kia y Hyundai 1.6 CRDI (D4FB): ficha tecnica, problemas y tuningMotordinámico · Technical documentation · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
Kia and Hyundai 1.6 CRDI (D4FB) engineEngineDNA · Other source · consulted 26 September 2026
Tickende Zeitbombe: So zuverlässig ist der Prince-Motor von PSA und BMWGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · published 13 March 2026 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
BMW N20 Engine: Pros, Cons, Reliability, Tuning, and Maintenance GuideBMW BLOG · Motoring press · published 8 June 2025 · consulted 27 September 2026
BMW N43: Bei diesem Benziner ist Ärger vorprogrammiertGebrauchtwagenberater · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
BMW N46: Typische Probleme & HaltbarkeitGebrauchtwagenberater · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
BMW X1 E84 – Bekannte Probleme & SchwachstellenGebrauchtwagenberater · Motoring press · published 9 May 2023 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
Motor BMW N57 - Reparación EspecializadaDasercars · Technical documentation · consulted 27 September 2026 · in Spanish
Todos los coches afectados ya por problemas de motor a causa de correas de distribución en aceiteAutopista.es · Motoring press · published February 2025 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in Spanish
Problemas Mazda CX-7Totalrenting · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in Spanish
Mazda 6 II: Bekannte Probleme und Schwachstellengebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
Mercedes M271: Typische Probleme und HaltbarkeitGebrauchtwagenberater · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
Die M272 V6 Motorisierung von Mercedes will gepflegt werdenMBpassion · Motoring press · consulted 5 October 2026 · in German
Der Mercedes M273 Motor: Technische Daten, Probleme, Haltbarkeitcarwiki.de · Technical documentation · consulted 5 October 2026 · in German
Mercedes-Benz GLC (X253): Alle typischen Probleme & MängelGebrauchtwagenberater · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
Tips for buying a second-hand pickup: Nissan NavaraFarmers Weekly Interactive · Motoring press · consulted 5 October 2026
YD25 Engine Guide: Specs, Reliability, Problems & Buying TipsAutopartswd · Technical documentation · consulted 5 October 2026
Distribution : les moteurs à problèmesFiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Opel Corsa C/D/E: Schwachstellen & KaufberatungGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
Fiabilité et pannes Volvo S60Fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
VW Polo 4 (9N): Typische Probleme & SchwachstellenGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
Fiabilité Citroën Peugeot. Le bloc 1.6 HDi 8 soupapes est-il fiable ?L'argus · Motoring press · published 23 March 2015 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in French
Fiabilité Citroën Peugeot. Le bloc 1.6 HDi 8 soupapes est-il fiable ? (1.6 HDi 112/115)L'argus · Motoring press · published 23 March 2015 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in French
Probleme mit dem Porsche Cayenne (9PA y 92A) inklusive RückrufaktionenCarWiki.de · Other source · consulted 9 October 2026 · in German
Porsche Cayenne: typische Probleme und Diagnose (957/958)KFZ Dietrich (taller, Alemania) · Other source · published 15 May 2026 · consulted 9 October 2026 · in German
A cuántos kilómetros se cambia la correa de distribuciónAutopista · Motoring press · published 14 May 2026 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
Fiabilité Volkswagen (datos de propietarios por modelo)fiches-auto.fr · Reliability study · consulted 26 September 2026 · in French
Fiat Tipo: problemas, fallos y averías más frecuentesTotalrenting · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in Spanish
Fiabilité et pannes Honda CR-V (2007-2013)Fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
TdV6 Timing BeltLes Richmond Automotive (lrautomotive.com.au) · Technical documentation · consulted 5 October 2026
Land Rover 2.7 TDV6 Timing Belt Replacement GuideBudget Parts (roverparts.eu) · Technical documentation · consulted 5 October 2026
Mercedes OM642 : fiabilité, pannes fréquentes et coûts d'entretienAutoCopilot · Motoring press · published 2026 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in French
Fiabilité des 0.9 TCeFiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Fiabilité et pannes de la Renault Clio 4Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Fiabilité Renault Laguna 3 : pannes et avisFiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Renault 1.2 TCe et Nissan 1.2 DIG-T : des moteurs gourmands en huileL'argus · Motoring press · published 12 October 2016 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in French
Casse moteur Renault 1.2 TCe : 107 000 Renault concernéesL'argus · Motoring press · published 28 March 2019 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in French
Bomba de agua del coche, qué es, función y cuándo cambiarlaAutopista.es · Motoring press · published 10 June 2026 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
Audi A6 C7: typische Probleme und Diagnose mit ODISKfz-Meisterbetrieb Dietrich (blog de taller) · Other source · consulted 9 October 2026 · in German
Gebrauchter Audi A6 und S6 C7 ZuverlässigkeitsleitfadenEuro Premium Parts (blog de recambista) · Other source · published 29 November 2025 · consulted 9 October 2026 · in German
Motor BMW B47: problemas, modelos y qué revisarCarexam · Motoring press · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
Fiabilité Opel Mokka X - avis et pannes des propriétairesFiches-auto.fr · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Essai, avis et fiabilité des 1.4 HDI 70 chFiches-Auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Fiabilité et pannes du Dacia Sandero 1Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Fiabilité et pannes du Renault Scénic 2Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
3.0 TDI: Viele Probleme, teure WartungGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · published 28 January 2023 · consulted 9 October 2026 · in German
Audi Q7 common problems (2005-2015)Haynes Manuals UK · Technical documentation · published October 2022 · consulted 9 October 2026
VW Touareg 3.0 TDI – typische Probleme und ODIS-DiagnoseKFZ Dietrich (taller, Hardegsen) · Other source · published 22 April 2026 · consulted 9 October 2026 · in German
How to fit a timing belt on a Land Rover Freelander 2Professional Motor Mechanic (PMM) · Motoring press · published 22 January 2018 · consulted 5 October 2026
Land Rover Range Rover Evoque 2.2 TD4: problemas crónicos y puntos débilesAraclo · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in another language
Fiabilité Nissan X-Trail : pannes et avisFiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Sul motore MR20DE di NissanDailyDriven · Other source · published 24 April 2019 · consulted 8 October 2026 · in Italian
Nissan Qashqai I - Typische Probleme & KrankheitenGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · published 13 February 2024 · consulted 8 October 2026 · in German
Ford Focus Mk2: Probleme und SchwachstellenGebrauchtwagenberater · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
Avis moteur Nissan Qashqai 2 1.6 163 chFiches-auto.fr · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Avis moteur Nissan Juke 1.6 Turbo 190 chFiches-auto.fr · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Fiabilité occasion Renault Mégane II (2002-2009)CarVerif · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
Fiabilité et pannes de la Renault Clio 3Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Fiabilité et pannes Volkswagen PassatFiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
BMW B48Wikipedia (inglés) · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026
Motor BMW B57: fiabilidad y averíasDasercars · Motoring press · consulted 4 October 2026 · in Spanish
Kia Sorento II (2009 – 2014) – Typische Probleme & KrankheitenGebrauchtwagenberater · Other source · published 7 April 2023 · consulted 8 October 2026 · in German
Mitsubishi Outlander: bekannte Probleme und MängelGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
Ingenium Engine Problems & Reliability GuideApex Auto Parts (UK) · Other source · consulted 29 October 2026
Range Rover Evoque 2.0 P250 Engine: Problems & CostsVogue Technics Engine Rebuild (UK) · Other source · consulted 29 October 2026
Mercedes M274: Typische Probleme & HaltbarkeitGebrauchtwagenberater · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
Mercedes M270: Typische Probleme & HaltbarkeitGebrauchtwagenberater · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
Moteur D RenaultWikipédia (francés) · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Fiabilité et pannes de la Fiat Panda (2003-2012)Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Fiabilité et pannes de la Fiat Panda (depuis 2012)Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Fiabilité et pannes de la Fiat 500Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Fiabilité et pannes du Nissan Qashqai (1re génération)Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Fiabilité et pannes du Nissan JukeFiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Fiabilité et pannes de la Dacia Sandero 2Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Fiabilité et pannes du Dacia Logan 2Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Fiabilité et pannes de la Renault Twingo 3Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Gebrauchtwagen-Check: Grundsätzlich gut: Der Suzuki Vitara beim TÜVVolksstimme (dpa) · General press · published January 2026 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
Suzuki Swift als Gebrauchtwagen: Diese Punkte beanstandet der TÜV häufigT-Online · General press · published October 2025 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
Fiabilité et pannes de la Volkswagen UpFiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Fiabilité et pannes de la Seat MiiFiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Fiabilité et pannes de la Seat Ibiza (2017-)Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Fiabilité et pannes de la Skoda CitigoFiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
Fiabilité et pannes de la Skoda Fabia 3Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French

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