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What are the symptoms of a failing timing chain in a 2020 Ford Explorer? - Ford Explorer
Home/Cars/Ford/Explorer/Sixth Generation (2020-present)/What are the symptoms of a failing timing chain in a 2020 Ford Explorer?

What are the symptoms of a failing timing chain in a 2020 Ford Explorer?

Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2020-present)

Error Codes
4-6 hours
Time
medium
Difficulty
high
Severity
Navigation
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
4 min read
664 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn about the symptoms of a failing timing chain in a 2020 Ford Explorer, diagnostic steps to take, and repair instructions to prevent serious engine problems.

Affected Component
timing chain
Estimated Time
4-6 hours

Symptoms

  • •Rattling or slapping noise from the engine
  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Decreased power, rough idling, or stalling
  • •Oil leaks around the timing cover
  • •Engine misfires or hesitation during acceleration
  • •Excessive vibration from the engine compartment

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • ✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • ✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • ✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • •Flashlight
  • •Basic hand tools
  • •Stethoscope (optional)
  • •OBD-II scanner
  • •Compression tester
  • •Timing chain cover removal tool
  • •Torque wrench
  • •New timing chain kit
  • •Gasket sealant

Additional Information

Affected Component
timing chain
Estimated Time
4-6 hours
Difficulty
medium
Severity
high
Tools Required
9 items

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Back to Generation
1. Engine Noise
  • Symptom: Rattling or slapping noise coming from the engine, especially during startup or acceleration.
  • Reason: The timing chain may be loose or worn, causing it to make contact with other engine components.
2. Check Engine Light
  • Symptom: The check engine light may illuminate.
  • Reason: Faulty timing chain can cause misalignment or timing issues that trigger error codes related to engine performance.
3. Poor Engine Performance
  • Symptom: Decreased power, rough idling, or stalling.
  • Reason: If the timing chain is not properly synchronizing the crankshaft and camshaft, it can lead to poor combustion.
4. Oil Leaks
  • Symptom: Oil leaks around the timing cover.
  • Reason: Wear on the timing chain can damage seals and gaskets, leading to oil leaks.
5. Engine Misfires
  • Symptom: Engine misfires or hesitation during acceleration.
  • Reason: Timing issues can disrupt the firing order of the engine, causing misfires.
6. Vibration
  • Symptom: Excessive vibration from the engine compartment.
  • Reason: A malfunctioning timing chain can cause abnormal engine vibrations due to improper timing.
Step 1: Visual Inspection
  • Tools Required: Flashlight, basic hand tools
  • Action: Check for visible signs of wear, oil leaks, or damage around the timing chain cover.
Step 2: Listen for Noises
  • Tools Required: Stethoscope (optional)
  • Action: Start the engine and listen for any unusual rattling or slapping sounds, particularly near the timing chain area.
Step 3: Check Engine Codes
  • Tools Required: OBD-II scanner
  • Action: Plug in the scanner and check for any trouble codes related to timing, such as P0016 (Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation).
Step 4: Conduct a Compression Test
  • Tools Required: Compression tester
  • Action: Perform a compression test on all cylinders to check for consistency. Low compression in multiple cylinders may indicate timing chain issues.
Step 5: Inspect Timing Chain Tensioners and Guides
  • Tools Required: Basic hand tools, possibly a timing chain cover removal tool
  • Action: If the above steps indicate a potential problem, remove the timing chain cover to inspect the tensioners and guides for wear.
Repair Instructions
Step 1: Prepare for Repair
  • Tools Required: Basic hand tools, timing chain cover removal tools, torque wrench, new timing chain kit (including chain, tensioners, and guides), gasket sealant.
  • Action: Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface. Disconnect the battery and drain the engine oil.
Step 2: Remove Components
  • Action:
    1. Remove the engine covers and any components obstructing access to the timing chain cover (e.g., air intake, serpentine belt).
    2. Carefully remove the timing chain cover bolts and pry the cover off.
Step 3: Inspect and Replace Timing Chain
  • Action:
    1. Assess the condition of the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
    2. If wear or damage is present, remove the old timing chain by loosening the tensioner and sliding the chain off the gears.
    3. Install the new timing chain according to the manufacturer’s specifications, ensuring the timing marks align correctly.
Step 4: Reassemble Components
  • Action:
    1. Install the new timing chain cover using a new gasket or sealant.
    2. Reinstall any components removed in Step 2, ensuring all bolts are torqued to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Step 5: Refill Engine Oil
  • Action: Refill the engine with fresh oil and reconnect the battery.
Step 6: Test Drive
  • Action: Start the engine and listen for any abnormal noises. Monitor engine performance and check for any warning lights.
Final Notes
  • Caution: If you are not experienced with timing chain replacement, it is highly recommended to seek professional assistance as improper installation can lead to severe engine damage.