I bought an 06 M/T 2WD Xterra and the timing chain makes a whining noise. I saw some posts about the same issue and it seems common that the plastic guides will fail. Is this dangerous to my engine and do I need to look at getting it replaced or can it run fine like this for ages?
You actually want to fix it as soon as possible because if it does break and the timing chain comes apart the Pistons hit the valves and you can say goodbye to your engine
I've got a 2008 Xterra 133000 miles and it's having the same noise. Been driving it around for a couple of years and no issues yet. Mechanics charge at least 1500 hard earned momey to replace the plastic guide and the part is around $100. I won't replace it cuz it's not worth it. The entire car worths like around 5000.