Attached is a video of the rattle im experiencing. I have 2012 corolla axio 2wd with the 1nzfe engine. Only has 70k km.Im having a rattle especially bad on cold starts. I took it to the mechanic who says its the timing chain tensioner and i would need to buy a timing chain kit. Going to cost almost 500 usd for everything. My car has a serpentine belt and as far as i understood i didnt think i had a timing chain. I would like some clarification and opinions on how i should proceed. Thanks in advance
If you don't have a stethoscope, take a long screwdriver, or metal rod and put it on the timing cover and listen immediately after a cold start. You'll hear right away if it's coming from the chain. If you are going to have to replace the chain, you have to replace the guides and the tensioner as well. It is pretty safe to say it's your timing chain. The sound usually goes away fairly quickly.
Would you reccomend changing the whole chain or just the tensioner
Definitely sounds like the timing chain from what I can hear.
Would you reccomend changing it or just the tensioner alone?
If you're going to be right in there I'd just do both.
The serpentine belt only drives the water pump, alternator, ac, etc. The cams are driven by a chain off the crankshaft through guides and a tensioner. About 120,000 miles is when they should be changed out.
Do you think the sound is from the timing chain should i proceed with the repair?