A Closer Look at BMW’s Timing Chain Tensioner Problems & Solutions

Has your BMW engine been generating a strange rattling noise for some time now? Such a noise can emerge for a few different reasons, the most obvious being a faulty timing chain tensioner. Interested in learning more about the timing chain tensioner. If so, please go through this blog post.

Timing Chain Tensioner: What is it & what does it do?

Before we have a conversation about the timing chain tensioner, you must understand the functioning of the timing chain. The timing chain, like the cycle chain, is made up of several metal links joined together by pins. It essentially makes sure that the camshaft and crankshaft rotate in unison.

Timing chain tensioner, on the other hand, is a component that in essence make sure that the timing chain is properly tight. This prevents the timing chain from jumping teeth on the sprockets. Simply put, if the timing chain tensioner isn’t working properly, the timing chain will become loose and possibly jump a few teeth on the sprockets as the engine operate. As a result, the engine’s timing will deviate and it would perform poorly and may even cease to operate.

Fortunately, timing chain tensioner doesn’t malfunction without giving off a few signs. Below we’ve compiled a list of warning signs indicating your BMW’s timing chain tensioner has failed and requires immediate attention.

Recognize a Faulty Timing Chain Tensioner with These Tips

Clue #1- Odd engine noise

More often than not, an unusual rattling noise coming from the engine indicates a problem with the timing chain, to be specific the tensioner. After all, it’s the tensioner that keeps your BMW’s timing chain taut. If it fails, the timing chain will get loosened, resulting in the emergence of a strange rattling noise. Noise will continue to get louder over time. And, if you don’t want to make things worse, take action quickly.

Clue #2- Engine having trouble starting

Yup… you will find it hard to start the engine if there is something wrong with the timing chain tensioner. By keeping the crank and cam shafts in unison the timing chain make sure that the engine is acting as a single unit. The synchronization between the engine shafts will be lost if the timing chain becomes loose because of a bad tensioner. And when that happens, despite your best efforts, you won’t be able to start the engine.

Clue #3- Engine misfire

This is yet another indication that your timing chain tensioner is out of whack. As we have already discussed, for the engine to function as a single unit its timing chain must be in good condition. If it comes loose due to a defective tensioner, one or more of your cylinders will misfire. Aside from a malfunctioning timing chain tensioner, there are various other reasons why a car engine may misfire.

Clue #4- Check engine light on

A broken timing chain tensioner may cause the check engine light to come on, just like any other problem with the engine. In fact, a timing chain tensioner issue could cause your BMW to go into limp mode. The fact is that it’s a crucial component, and a flaw in such a critical component will have a major impact on the engine’s overall performance, triggering several warning lights.

Clue #5- Damaged timing chain

Your BMW’s timing chain will wear out prematurely if its tensioner is not working the way it should.

Reasons why you’re BMW Timing Chain Tensioner May Fail

The timing chain tensioner in your BMW might fail for a variety of reasons. The following list includes some of the more typical ones:

Wear and tear due to daily usage

Continual exposure to heat

Not replacing engine oil on time

The tensioner has not been correctly set

Key Takeaways

Contrary to what many of you may believe, the timing chain tensioner is not a trivial component. By applying proper tension to the timing chain, the tensioner make sure that different engine shafts are properly synchronized. If for some reason it fails, that synchronization will be disrupted. Therefore, it is crucial that you have your BMW’s timing chain tensioner checked by a qualified expert if you ever suspect there may be a problem.