Another day, another failed timing chain. Oddly enough, the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta TSI 1.8-litre that was recently towed in doesn’t usually have timing-chain issues. Not to say that it’s unheard of, but it’s not my typical starting place when diagnosing a no-start condition on this model.
This was a first-time customer and my initial thought was that the owner is hard on the car. The vehicle was a disaster both inside and out. How people exist in such filth is beyond me.
Looking under the hood didn’t change my opinion, everything was covered in dirt, the fluids were black and the engine oil was alarmingly dark and contaminated with fuel. A quick scan of the vehicle’s computer showed a camshaft sensor error.
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A week earlier a Honda CR-V arrived on the back of a tow truck also with a similar camshaft sensor error code. This is where I see DIY’ers get themselves into trouble. Both owners had code readers and kept resetting their computers in hopes that the problem would solve itself. The Honda owner had even purchased a new camshaft sensor with the intent of changing it on their own. When the car failed to start, they towed it in for us to change the sensor. However, both vehicles did not need camshaft sensors, but had failed timing chains, with the VW being a catastrophic failure.
To help understand timing chain operation, think of a bicycle chain. The front gear assembly where the bicycle pedals exist can be thought of as the engine’s crankshaft and the sprocket at the rear wheel can be the engine camshaft sprocket in this example. When pedalling, mechanical energy is transferred through the chain from the front sprocket to the rear. If the chain stretches or the bicycle derailleurs wear, the chain will frequently fall off. Similarly, if the engine timing chain stretches it may fall off or skip a tooth.
Both vehicles had error codes for camshaft position sensors. Both DIY owners unfortunately assumed this was telling them a sensor had expired. What was actually happening was that the computer was detecting a camshaft that was out of position. It was not in its correct position because it was lagging behind because of a stretched chain.
Now it was time for their expensive lessons. If they had not kept resetting their computers, they could have saved things before they went desperately wrong. The VW had internal engine damage because of the chain failure and the CR-V is still in question. It might just need a chain replacement, but it might also need a costly engine repair in addition to the timing chain replacement.
The VW owner essentially abandoned his car because the cost to repair the engine was more than the car was worth. The CR-V owner decided to tow the car to the dealer and trade it in. Both just took a huge financial loss.
All professional repair shops deal with towed in driveway warrior DIY vehicles that end up costing the owners way more to correct their errors than anything they would have saved by doing it themselves. I have no problem with people fixing their own vehicles, so go ahead and buy your $89 code readers, but know your limits. Sadly, many DIY’ers find their limits the hard, expensive way as was the case for these two.
Your automotive questions answered
Hello Lou,
I recently purchased a 2021 Hyundai Kona in the preferred trim with all-wheel drive. Mountain highways in British Columbia require snow (or at a minimum, mud & snow) tires from Oct. 1 until the spring. I have heard that taking tires on and off of the wheels can be harmful to the tires, should I buy the snow tires on “beater” rims, and what do I look for in beater rims? Lastly, because I live in a condo with limited storage options, I am looking at using the dealer’s tire installation and storage service, which is priced at about $95 a year. Any guidance? – Dave K.
The tire is stretched slightly by tire installation equipment. When used properly, contemporary tire servicing equipment is quite effective at minimizing any negative impact to tire life. The key to my statement is when used properly. When an inexperienced hand is operating the tire equipment things can rarely, but sometimes go wrong and tire damage can occur. I always recommend winter tires be installed on a separate set of winter wheels for this reason and also cost. Mounting and balancing twice per year will usually eclipse the price of a set winter only wheels within a few seasons.
Tire storage is an additional, unwanted expense for most, but popular for those like yourself living in a condo. There is not much guidance that I can offer for you on this one. Technically I guess you are renting space in a warehouse to store your personal items. Unfortunately, there is a cost associated with that, all you can do is shop around for the best deal.
Hi Lou,
Responding to a reader’s question on the Adaptive Suspension on an Acura MDX, you mentioned it is a major problem especially in a damp climate. Given that different manufacturers source their parts often from sale suppliers, is this also a problem with other makes such as GMC, Cadillac, Ford, Jeep and Chrysler. Here on the West Coast where I live this would be a factor to consider when buying a car.
Thank you, Randy
Once upon a time, thrifty drivers would avoid purchasing vehicles with power windows and power door locks to avoid additional repair costs. Today, getting a vehicle with roll-up windows is next to impossible. Active suspensions along with air suspensions definitely add an additional level of complexity to any vehicle. Suspension components on every vehicle are exposed extensively to moisture. So, if you are concerned with additional costs, especially in a wetter area of the country, I suggest avoiding vehicles with active and air suspensions as your wallet will feel every bump in the road.
Lou Trottier is owner-operator of All About Imports in Mississauga. Have a question about maintenance and repair? E-mail globedrive@globeandmail.com, placing “Lou’s Garage” in the subject line.
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