I have a 2001 Nissan Altima with less than 85k miles (original ta boot!). It has a timing chain instead of a belt. Some people tell me I should replace it, but others say I can wait a bit longer. Based on your reputation of being an expert in the subject, I'm figuring you would know.
So how much of a time limit is typically safe to drive until it gets risky to drive? Any suggestions you may have would be sincerely appreciated. I look forward to your reply.
Thank you,
John Lind
Leave it alone.
It’s designed to last the life of the engine.
Now however, if you start to hear funny rattling noises though, I’d get it looked at.
If it’s running fine with no complaints, just let it be.
https://www.nissanclub.com/threads/timing-chain-change-interval.197189/
i’m not scotty but i had a nissan xterra 07 with a timing chain issue if you hear a rattling sound then it can be unsafe to continue driving if it fails will most likely ruin the engine you can probably drive between 1 and 2 thousand miles before it fails but i wouldn’t test it
If you can hear a rattle, either the tensioner or the guides are wearing out and it needs replacement. Most info I've seen says around 120 -150,000 miles for replacement. If you let it go, you will destroy your engine, completely.
Thanks for the quick reply! Do you recall how much it cost to get your Xterra running again?
Does anyone have any recommendations re how long I can drive it before it’s not safe to continue? ( https://youtu.be/kzw1_2b-I7A )
I drive less than 1000 miles/year, but I still have to drive occasionally.
Thanks…
Unless there is a noise like a whine or rattle from inside the timing cover it never needs replacement. Just stay on top of oil changes and it won’t go bad or ever need replacement
