Replacement Timing Chain

[Richard Jackson]

Hi,

My Lexus is in main dealer hospital with a yellow light warning on the dash. I have paid £190 to get it checked and the engine taken apart. I've just had a call saying the problem is that the timing chain is 'stretched' and that eventually it will go completely and needs to be replaced. The warning light will remain until it is.

I have been quoted £3,000 to fix this with a replacement timing chain. The cost of the chain is approximately £1k with £2k labour.

This seems pretty extreme to me and I would appreciate any advice as to whether this cost is reasonable or if I could get it done without the main dealer for considerably less.

Thanks in advance of your time.

[AmbroseJohn]

$326 from the States. Maybe you could find a UK dealer who stocks this kit.

http://www.partsgeek.com/catalog/2008/lexus/gs450h/engine_mechanical/timing_set.html

I'm sure your local garage could fit it.

[Richard Jackson]

OK. Didn't know if the fact is was a hybrid required a specialist?

Thanks for the reply.

[AmbroseJohn]

The engine is just a normal V6, driving a different bunch of components. (I think :) )

[Richard Jackson]

That's what I hoped! Thanks. 1stchoice parts request in so I'll see what I get. Cheers!

[messi]

I have never heard of a timing chain needing replacing. They are suppose to last a long time. Any ideas on what's caused it?

[Richard Jackson]

I have no idea. I was surprised myself. Do you think I should kick off about it? ;-) I also don't understand how a solid metal chain can 'stretch'. I'll get a face to face chat later to discuss - so far it's just a phonecall.

[messi]

I think when they say it's stretched they mean it's worn, I've read about it, but it's not a common issue and wonder what causes it

[messi]

I think when they say it's stretched they mean it's worn, I've read about it, but it's not a common issue and wonder what causes it

[messi]

Well I've just done some research and found our that a timing chain can get worn if the engine is low on oil as it needs engine oil to keep it lubricated or type of engine oil used is not good quality engine oil

[Richard Jackson]

Interesting... I've never knowingly skimped on oil or used the cheap stuff. I'll see what they say.

[AmbroseJohn]

How many miles have you covered?

[Connoisseur]

There is also something I've read about making sure small oil filters in the head get changed regulalry (not a service item). Will see if i can find it...........