• Home
  • Denver Auto Repair Services
    • Full Service Oil Change
    • Expert Mechanics
      • Expert Honda Mechanics
      • Expert Toyota Mechanics
      • Expert Subaru Mechanics
    • Automatic Transmission
    • Fuel System Cleaning
    • Radiator Flush Service
    • Wiper Blades
    • Air Filter
    • Cabin Air Filter
    • Gearbox Service
    • Brake Repair
    • Clutch Repair
    • CV Boots
    • Tune-Up
    • Steering & Suspension
    • Tires
  • Auto Diagnostic
  • Contact Us
    • About Us
  • Shop Specials
  • Testimonials
  • Blog
  • 303-691-2760

Express Car Care of Denver

"Denver's Best Auto Repair and Quick Lube"

  • Brake Service
  • Car Maintenance
    • Heating-Air Conditioning
    • Suspension
    • Transmission
    • Engine
    • Tires
  • Oil Change
  • Tips & Tricks

Timing Chain

July 10, 2017 by Denver Express Car Care

As your engine runs, the intake valves need to open up to allow air into the engine.  They remain closed while the air and fuel is compressed and ignited, powering the piston.  Then the exhaust valves open to release the exhaust.  This all has to be timed very precisely.  It is the job of the timing belt or chain to make sure all of this is synced up properly.

Timing belts are made of a very tough compound that can last for a long time.  Timing chains are made of metal and last for a very long time as well.  If your vehicle has a timing belt, your vehicle’s owner’s manual has a schedule for replacing the belt.  If your vehicle has a timing chain, there may not be a specified schedule for replacing it, but that doesn’t mean that the timing chain system is indestructible and never needs attention.

For example, the chain runs on sprockets on the crankshaft and the camshafts.  A broken tooth on a sprocket can cause the chain to slip.  When timing is off, even a little, your engine won’t run at all and could even be severely damaged.  There is also a tensioner that keeps appropriate pressure on the timing chain.  This keeps the chain tight while allowing it to absorb pulsations from the engine.  The tensioner can wear out.  There are also guide rails that keep the chain on the proper path that can become worn.

The bottom line is that at some time, one or more of the timing chain system components will become worn to the point that they are no longer performing within specifications.  Your service adviser can help you with recommendations for when timing chain components should be replaced on your vehicle and for signs of timing chain system wear.

Since timing chains and dozens of other parts, are lubricated by engine oil, smart drivers stay on top of regular oil changes to prolong their life.  Always use a high quality oil filter and oil of the recommended type and grade.

Filed Under: Engine Tagged With: Timing Chain

Express Car Care
4200 E. Evans Ave. Denver, CO (map)
Phone: (303) 691-2760
Located just southeast of the Colorado Light Rail station

Follow Us Today!

  • Facebook
  • RSS

Shop Hours

Monday: 8:00AM – 5:00PM
Tuesday: 8:00AM – 5:o0PM
Wednesday: 8:00AM – 5:00PM
Thursday: 8:00AM – 5:00PM
Friday: 8:00AM – 5:00PM
Saturday: Closed – A note from the owner
Sunday: Closed

Last car oil change time  – 5:00PM

Click for the BBB Business Review of this Auto Repair & Service in Denver CO

Recent Articles

Warning Signs Your Brakes Need Immediate Attention

Warning Signs Your Brakes Need Immediate Attention

The humdrum of the daily drive. You sit at more stop lights than you can count. You slam on your brakes a time or two as the traffic turns into chaos. And hills - you might have a few of them thrown … [Read More...]

  • Finding a Family-Owned Auto Shop You Can Trust in Denver
  • The Most Common Car Repairs in Denver—And How to Avoid Them
  • The Top 5 Reasons Cars Fail Emissions Tests in Denver
  • Check These 6 Fluids Regularly to Keep Your Car Running Smoothly
  • How to Know If Your Vehicle Needs a Cooling System Check

Search Our Site

Brakes Service

Warning Signs Your Brakes Need Immediate Attention

Affordable Brake Pad Replacement in Denver: What You Need to Know

How to Prevent and Fix Uneven Brake Pad Wear

Oil Change

Oil Change Specials in Denver: Save Money and Keep Your Car Running Right

Why Regular Oil Changes Are Crucial for Denver Drivers

The Benefits of Using High-Quality Motor Oil for Your Engine

Suspension

How to Know If Your Car Needs Suspension Repair in Denver’s Bumpy Roads

A Guide To Understanding Bushings on a Car

Tips for Preventing Wear and Tear on Your Car’s Suspension

Transmision Service

Transmission Trouble? Common Signs and When to Visit Our Denver Shop

How to Prevent Common Issues with Automatic Transmissions

Understanding the Signs of Transmission Problems and How to Fix Them

Engine Service

Is Your Car Hesitating During Acceleration?

How to Troubleshoot a Rough Idling Engine

Signs Your Car’s Water Pump Might Be Failing

Auto Tips & Tricks

Check Engine Light On? Here’s What Denver Drivers Need to Know

The Importance of Regular Wheel Alignment for Tire Longevity

The Benefits of a Well-Maintained Suspension System

"Denvers Best Auto Repair and Quick Lube" - Copyright © 2025 - 4200 E. Evans Ave. Denver, CO 303-691-2760