Timing chain replacement: timing chain cover on an engine in the workshop

Timing chain replacement, wet belt and cam belt

Timing chain replacement protects your engine from one of the most expensive failures it can suffer. If a chain stretches or a wet belt breaks down, the valves and pistons can collide. We replace timing chains, wet belts and cam belts for London, Peterborough and about 100 miles around, with a specialist focus on Land Rover, Range Rover and Jaguar.

  • Free quote from your registration
  • Warranty: 6 months unlimited miles, or 12 months/12,000 miles
  • All engines, priority on 2015+ cars
Our London partner workshop is rated 4.3★ from 46 Google reviews

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Step 1 of 2Your car

Vehicle details from official DVSA MOT records.

Warning signs

Signs you need timing chain replacement

A timing chain or belt keeps the crankshaft and camshafts in step. When it wears, the engine usually gives you a warning first. Look out for:

  • a rattle for a few seconds after a cold start
  • a timing or camshaft position fault code, or the engine light coming on
  • rough running, misfires or a loss of power
  • metal particles in the oil, or a wet belt shedding debris

If you hear a rattle, avoid driving the car hard and ask us for a free quote. Catching it early can mean a straightforward engine repair rather than a full engine rebuild.

Timing chain replacement inspection of the engine block and crankcase

Belt types

Timing chain, wet belt or cam belt?

Engines use one of three systems, and the work is different for each.

  • Timing chain: a metal chain inside the engine. It is meant to last, but chains and tensioners can stretch and wear, especially when oil changes are missed.
  • Wet belt: a toothed belt that runs in engine oil. Some Ford and Peugeot and Citroen engines use one. Oil quality has a big effect on how the belt ages.
  • Cam belt (dry belt): a toothed rubber belt outside the engine, normally changed at set intervals.

We confirm which system your engine uses from your registration, and quote for the right parts.

The job

How we do timing chain replacement

We inspect the engine, confirm the condition of the chain or belt, and give you a free quote. The work replaces the chain or belt along with the components that wear with it, such as tensioners and guides where needed. The engine is then checked before you collect the car.

If a chain or belt has already failed, the engine may have internal damage. In that case we inspect it and explain whether an engine repair, an engine rebuild or an engine replacement is the sensible next step.

Timing chain replacement job with the flywheel and clutch removed from the engine

Makes

Land Rover and Jaguar timing chain replacement

Timing chain work on Land Rover, Range Rover and Jaguar engines is a core part of our specialist focus. We also replace chains, wet belts and cam belts on BMW, Audi, Mercedes, Ford, Peugeot and Citroen engines, with priority on 2015 and newer cars. The work is carried out at our partner workshop in Rainham, East London, or in Peterborough.

Warranty

Choose your warranty

Every engine job comes with a warranty, and you choose the cover.

Option 1
6

6 months, unlimited miles

Suits drivers who cover a lot of miles in a short time.

Option 2
12

12 months or 12,000 miles

Longer cover for everyday and lower-mileage driving.

We confirm the warranty option in writing with your quote.

Makes

Land Rover, Range Rover and Jaguar first

Land Rover, Range Rover and Jaguar timing chain work is our specialist focus. We also work on BMW, Audi, Mercedes, Ford, Peugeot and Citroen engines.

FAQ

Timing chain and wet belt questions

How do I know if my timing chain is stretched?

A rattle on cold start, timing fault codes and rough running are common signs. Only an inspection can confirm it.

Can I keep driving with a rattling timing chain?

We advise against it. If the chain fails, the engine can be badly damaged. Ask us for a free quote as soon as you can.

What is a wet belt?

A timing belt that runs in engine oil. Some Ford and Peugeot and Citroen engines use one.

How much does timing chain replacement cost?

It depends on the engine. We do not publish prices; send your registration for a free quote.

Is there a warranty?

Yes. You choose 6 months with unlimited miles, or 12 months or 12,000 miles.

Get your free quote

Send your registration and a few words about the problem, and we will come back to you with a free quote.