Ask an expert

I have a 2005 NZ new Nissan Maxima which developed a noise in the area of the timing chain during a slightly longer than normal oil change period.

The car has done 140,000km's. An oil change seems to have largely fixed the problem, although on the odd occasion I can still hear the noise for a moment.

My understanding is that the tensioner is oil pressure operated and dirty oil may have been the problem.

The questions I have are; is it common for Maxima's to require timing chain replacements, and what are the chances that the chain has stretched and needs replacement?

Simon

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 19 May 2010

Any chain driven engine can suffer from a stretched chain or tensioner problem.

Regular servicing with a good quality oil will without doubt, help keep the tensioner/chain in good condition but in some cases it can come down to a matter of good or bad luck.

Lack of servicing will definitely cause premature engine problems eventually, the biggest fear being a build up of engine sludge which can block off oil pressure feed to the main engine internals including the timing chain tensioner. This has been a common issue with some used imports over the years.

One of the advantages of having a chain driven engine is there is no manufacturer replacement period and a noisy chain is not going to cause major engine damage (unless it gets unacceptably noisy). The huge risk of ignoring a cam belt replacement is having it break which can cause massive internal damage.

It may pay to take the car to a Nissan dealer and ask them to have a listen to the chain noise and provide an opinion on how bad it is.

The Maxima's have a great reputation but when things need attention on any V6 engine, they can be very costly to repair