2010 Acura TSX V6 97500k miles.
Engine has been making a rattling noise in cold starts and the noise goes away completely after 2-3 mins. From online research it looks like its most likely the timing belt tensioner. I called the dealer and they want $1200 for a timing belt job. Is this reasonable and if I hold off on this repair am II risking an engine failure?
If it’s a interference engine and it breaks your done, if it’s a non Interference engine and it breaks, the engine is saved. Call the dealership and give them the vin # and ask them which one it is, this will give you a timeframe as to how quickly it needs to be done. Are you sure it’s not the lifters or water pump?
Follow the steps in this video to pinpoint the source/s of the noise. Don’t just replace parts without diagnosing the issue correctly, first.
Your 2010 Acura uses a timing chain, with a tensioner and guides. The cold rattle is a common symptom of chain tensioner failure. Your engine is an interference engine, so if the chain breaks or skips a tooth, you'll need a tow truck and a new engine.
