Owning a Hyundai in Dubai, UAE, or further afield in the Middle East, requires an understanding of the intricacies in the makeup of your car to ensure performance and longevity. Probably among the most unacknowledged components of this brand of cars is the Hyundai timing chain that seldom has its attention sought after until it starts making noise.
In this article, we delve into the world of Hyundai timing chains as an important piece of engineering within your engine.
Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or someone who wants more information regarding the innards, this comprehensive guide sheds light on all that pertains to Hyundai timing chains; their role, how long they may last, and how much the replacement costs.
Buckle up and take a look at this enlightening journey that shall empower you to make intelligent choices with respect to the care and maintenance of your Hyundai vehicle.
Before we delve into the details, let’s explain what a Hyundai timing chain is and how it works in your Hyundai engine; The timing chain is the key component which articulates the rotational motion of the Hyundai crankshaft along with the camshaft(s) inside your engine.
This gives your engine the proper times for its valves to open and close in relation to the intake and exhaust strokes of each cylinder. In essence, the Hyundai timing chain has a core charge of keeping your engine’s internals in some state of harmony, somewhat like an orchestra conductor.
If you don’t know the difference between Camshaft and Crankshaft, we suggest you read this article: Camshaft vs. Crankshaft
Do Hyundai Timing Chains Need Replacement?
Well, the straightforward answer is yes, but not nearly as often as timing belts. Hyundai timing chains are built tough and durable; many times, if conditions are just right, it may never need replacement through the whole life of the engine. But driving conditions, weather, and/or maintenance can take its toll on what’s normally a long life span of the timing chain.
Worth noting, however, is that while timing chains may last longer than timing belts, they are not indestructible. With regular maintenance and proper care, the timing chain in your Hyundai may see considerably extended life-with many cases perhaps never needing replacement.
Do Hyundai Vehicles Have Timing Belt or Chain?
Not all Hyundai vehicles are equipped with a timing chain. Instead, certain models are older and others have different engine settings, which run on the concept of timing belts. You will have to refer to this in your vehicle’s manual or consult a certified Hyundai technician to find out if your car has a timing chain or belt.
This is critical information that one needs for planning in maintaining his vehicle, as timing chains are usually replaced less often compared to timing belts.
Most of the modern Hyundai models now use timing chains since they last longer and require minimal maintenance; nevertheless, it is always wise to consult your car specifically on what it was built with.
How Long Do Hyundai Timing Chains Last?
Timing chains on Hyundai models are supposed to outlast those made of timing belts. Where a timing belt would go through life from 60,000 to 100,000 kilometres and need a replacement, a well-cared-for timing chain may last up to 200,000 or even 300,000 kilometres or more. Of course, this is not a general rule. A number of factors can keep your Hyundai’s timing chain running well.
One of the main reasons timing chains tend to last longer is in their construction. Unlike rubber timing belts, timing chains are made of metal-usually an extremely durable alloy that can withstand the high-stress environment of an engine. Because timing chains are constructed of metal, they resist stretching and wear rather well in comparison to a rubber belt. The fact that timing chains also lubricate with the same engine oil reduces friction and wear, further extending their lifespan.
Are Timing Chains Hard to Replace?
Considering the critical nature of a timing chain in your Hyundai engine, one may wonder if replacing the timing chains is hard. Realistically speaking, unlike a timing belt replacement, changing a timing chain is generally more difficult and time-consuming. This is largely due to where a timing chain is located-inside the engine.
In most cases, timing chains are enclosed within an engine and, sometimes, at the front of the engine block behind the timing cover. Most timing chain replacements require the removal of several peripheral components such as the radiator, the water pump, and the oil pan being lowered in most cases. This then makes the replacement of the timing chain best left to experienced mechanics with proper tools and expertise.
Which Hyundai Engines Have Timing Chains?
Many of the newer Hyundai engines are indeed equipped with a factory timing chain on most of their latest model-lineups. What particular configuration this is, would depend on the exact model and year. Some popular models you may know of that have these chains in them are the Sonata, Santa Fe, Tucson, and Elantra, among others.
It should also be noticed that even the engines of the same model line may run off either a timing chain or a timing belt. A model might have its four-cylinder engine with a timing chain while the V6 version of the very same model may have a timing belt. Again, it means saying how important it is to look into your car manual or ask from a Hyundai professional what type is fitted in your car.
Why Timing Chains Fail
Understanding the motive for timing chain failure will also help in ways to prevent wear prematurely, thus saving you money.
Though, the timing chains could last longer, several other factors may cause the timing chain to fail, these are:
- Poor Oil Maintenance
- Wear of related components
- Manufacturing defects
- High mileage
When poor oil maintenance is used or degraded, this can increase friction and result in wear on the chain and related components. On the other hand, tensioners and guides keep the chain aligned and at proper tension. And as they wear, they may allow the chain to loosen or become misaligned; from this, additional wear and potential failure can be seen. While rare, these issues have been known to affect certain engine models across various manufacturers, including some Hyundai engines. And finally, very high mileage, even with proper maintenance, can eventually wear out the timing chain.
Being able to recognize some of the signs that the timing chain is going out can help you avoid complete catastrophic failure of the motor. Common signs include a rattling noise from the front of the engine, especially at start-up; poor performance or misfires in the engine; and, in extreme cases, the engine will not start at all.
How to Replace Hyundai Timing Chains
It should be strongly emphasized that for anyone interested in learning how to replace Hyundai timing chains, it is a job that should be left to the professionals. The process generally involves the following steps:
- Removing a number of engine components in order to provide easy access to the chain
- Alignment of the engine to a correct position for timing
- Removing the old chain along with tensioners and guides
- Installation of new components
Reassembly of the engine with correct timing and tension. For these procedures, one needs a whole lot of specific tools and also thorough knowledge regarding mechanics of an engine. Without this knowledge and the necessary equipment, any incorrect DIY replacement of the timing chain will mean serious damage to your engine .
Why Are Timing Chains So Expensive?
A great percentage of the cost covers the replacement of the timing chain, which is quite a complex procedure. You may wonder why timing chains are very expensive to replace. The cost is higher for several reasons, including:
As earlier mentioned, most replacements require that an engine be substantially taken apart-a task that translates into hours of time and experience. In many cases, the replacement entails not only the chain but also tensioners, guides, and even sprockets. Proper timing chain replacement requires profound knowledge in engine mechanics and specific Hyundai models. And, you should know that during the replacement process, mechanics can find other worn components that may need attention.
These can be fairly expensive upfront to replace compared to chains, but again, that has to be put into perspective: chains have very long, durable lives. Comparing how often they would need replacement to a timing belt, the overall cost at the end of the vehicle’s life could be comparable or even lower with a timing chain.
Conclusion
It is very vital to comprehend the function and demands your Hyundai timing chain has with respect to maintaining your car in prime working condition while saving you from inconvenient and costly repairs. Though timing chains are intended to last long, they are never resistant to wear and tear and will likely reach a point where replacement may be necessary. By doing routine maintenance-such as regular oil changes with quality oil-your timing chain and other parts inside the engine can really last longer.
Being a Hyundai owner in Dubai of the UAE or Middle East, you are most likely to face unique difficulties arising because of the climatic and driving conditions in this region. Regular check-ups with a certified Hyundai technician will help you to spot any probable problems early on and save your time and money in the longer run. Keep in mind that anything related to timing chain replacement or major engine works always requires professionals with the right tools and art.
And if you need to buy timing chains or any Hyundai Spare parts in Dubai, UAE, or other countries in Middle East, you can Call our sale support team at Arsintrading, We at Arsintrading bring high quality spare parts for Hyundai and Kia from best brands in Dubai and all over the region.
It pays to stay informed about the different components of your car and proactive in maintaining them in good order for your Hyundai vehicle to run as efficient and reliable as you have become accustomed to. It may be in the busy city of Dubai or elsewhere on a long drive through the UAE, but a well-maintained timing chain will ensure the heart of your Hyundai continues to keep running for many years to come.
