09 corolla 156k 1.8 chain rattle on cold start. I know it’s a common issue but should I replace my timing chain? I replaced my tensioner already. But it didn’t go away after I changed it.
It's the VVTI, not the chain. There's a TSB on it
https://www.tsbsearch.com/Toyota/T-SB-0087-09
Here's a less technical discussion
Would it be a smart idea to replace the phaser and the chain at once? For preventive maintenance or should I replace just the phaser. It is a interfearence engine and I don’t want my engine to go.
It's not an interference engine, but I would do both the VVTI phaser and chain (I got mine done under warranty).
If the rattle goes away after couple of seconds, it most likely from the VVTi system (lack of oil lubrication during the start up).
chain rattle on cold start. I know it’s a common issue but should I replace my timing chain?
Yes, You should replace the timing kit with the VVT sprockets - on Toyotas they last about as much as the chain (so you just replace both regardless)
