So what distinguishes a timing chain from a timing belt? Both a timing chain and belt perform the same basic function. These mechanisms are created to maintain the relative position of the valves opening and closing to the position of the piston as the engine is running, regardless of whether you drive a Porsche, Mercedes Benz, or BMW with an internal timing chain, or an Audi or Volkswagen with an external timing belt. When a valve is opened at the incorrect time, it may come into contact with the piston and cause a catastrophic engine failure.
The piston will raise (building compression) and the valves will open precisely, allowing air and fuel to enter the combustion chamber and exhaust to depart in less than one thousandth of a second in an engine with perfectly timed ignition. When valves open or close prematurely or lately due to a timing issue, the piston will be driven into the valve, most frequently bending the valve and possibly punching a hole in the piston crown, rendering the engine worthless. These fixes could cost as little as $4,000 to $5,000 or, depending on the engine, much more.
An internal timing chain is used by brands including Porsche, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. These chains are stronger and less prone to break on their own. The same outcome is more frequently experienced when other chain-holding components, including chain tensioners and chain guides, fail. Check engine lights and a rattling sound, which is typically heard while starting an engine, are early warning indicators of a breakdown.
Initially using timing chains, Audi and Volkswagen switched to an external timing belt in the 1980s, 1990s, and the majority of the 2000s (now returning to chain drive systems). The timing belt is simpler to inspect and replace than the timing chain. On most models, replacing a timing belt with all associated parts (including a water pump on most models) costs between $700 and $900, which is significantly less than doing the same for a timing chain. The external timing belt’s drawback is that, like all belts, it eventually wears out and needs to be replaced. Timing belts should typically be changed every 80,000 miles, or every five years. Each time they are serviced or at least once a year, these should be visually inspected.
It’s vital to keep in mind that modern German performance cars, whether you drive a Porsche, Mercedes Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, or Audi, will last you for many miles and years if you maintain them properly. Count on our specialists in Austin for Porsche, Mercedes Benz, Volkswagen, Audi, and BMW repairs. Simply drop by German Auto Center and ask if you have any questions. At 8215 Research Blvd, we are conveniently and centrally situated, and we are here to help.
In This Article...
Timing chain on an Audi A4?
The Audi A4 features a variety of engines with either a timing belt or a timing chain from the model years 1996 to 2021. All of its engines, though, are disruptive.
In a combustion engine, the timing belt (or chain) maintains the correct synchronization between the various engine parts.
Serious engine damage may result if the belt or chain strains or breaks.
Timing chains are typically rated for the lifespan of the engine, while timing belts have a suggested replacement interval, however they do need to be inspected on occasion.
Understanding the timing system in your car or a potential purchase might help you save future costs and hassles.
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Is there a timing belt or chain on a 2007 Audi A4 2.0 T?
Every Audi A4 produced between 2010 and 2021 has an interference engine with a timing chain. All 4 cylinder A4s use timing belts from 2007 to 2008, whereas V6s have chains.
In 2008, the sedans have a timing chain while the cabriolets (convertibles) have a timing belt.
For instance, whereas the 2009 Audi A4 2.0L 4 Cyl. Turbo 200 horsepower (FSI), Cabriolet option has a timing belt, the 2021 Audi A4 2.0L 4 Cyl. Turbo 201 hp (40) option has a timing chain.
Which automobile models feature timing chains?
The timing chain, which is found in the engine of the car, synchronizes the various components so they can operate together. It is constructed of metal links that function as a chain to transfer the crankshaft’s motions to the camshaft. This enables it to grasp onto the various wheels and gears.
Depending on the model of your car, the timing chain may be a single, double, or triple chain. A hydraulic tensioner is present to keep it tight.
Timing chain vs timing belt
As previously mentioned, the timing chain is utilized to coordinate the motion of some engine components. The timing belt and this are comparable. The timing belt’s ability to power the water pump on some automobile types may be the only distinction. Other than this, synchronizing the crankshaft, camshaft, pistons, and valves is essentially their shared responsibility.
Timing belt or chain: Which is better?
- The timing chain’s key strength is how durable it is. Due to its high strength, it should typically not need to be replaced and should last the whole life of the vehicle.
- A timing chain only needs to be checked every 125,000 miles of use. Otherwise, it requires no maintenance.
- The metal in the timing chain is resistant to temperature changes, in contrast to the rubber that makes up the timing belt.
- A timing chain weighs more than a belt, which increases fuel consumption (and the pollutants it causes), which over time reduces fuel efficiency. Additionally, its weight affects engine output.
- Timing belts are much quieter than running timing chains.
- It is typically only feasible to equip big cylinders due to its weight.
- It costs a lot more to buy than a timing belt would.
- Because the timing chain is constructed of metal links, engine oil must be used to lubricate it continually.
What cars have timing chains instead of belts?
Timing chains are being installed in more and more vehicles. The majority of Mercedes and BMW vehicles come with timing chains.
A non-exhaustive list of vehicles that can have timing chains installed is provided below:
- many BMWs
- a lot of Mercedes
- Every Cadillac
- 159 Alfa Romeo
- Corvette by Chevrolet
- Duster, Sandero, and Sandero Stepway from Dacia
- Jazz Honda
- Skyactiv-G engine in Mazda
- Every SAAB has a turbocharged engine.
You may physically inspect your car’s timing belt or chain by removing a cover at the end of the engine, consulting your owner’s manual, or asking your mechanic. The timing chain is easily identified by its metal links when the cover is removed with the proper tool, whereas the belt is comprised of rubber and is considerably more flexible.
Ask your mechanic: “How do I tell whether my automobile has a timing belt or chain? if you are still unclear.
You won’t typically need to replace your car’s timing chain. Poor lubrication is likely to have ruined a chain that has to be replaced.
If the timing chain is determined to be damaged, it’s critical that you hire a reputable expert to handle the repair. In extreme cases, the mechanic will even need to completely remove the engine to get to the timing chain. If the timing chain breaks, it may harm other engine components like the valves, making the repair more involved and pricey.
Has the 2.0 TDI Audi a5 a timing belt or chain?
In 2009, on the occasion of its 100th birthday, Audi unveiled the A5 Sportback. Although the five-door hatchback was scarcely revolutionary, it wasn’t a bad way to mark the completion of the first century of automobile production. The A5 Sportback, which was based on the brand-new A4 that had debuted the year before, combined style and hatchback functionality in a package that was reasonably priced. Sportback prices have dipped as the earliest cars are now enjoying their fourth birthdays. There are many cars with a lot of miles on them, but the car is remarkably simple to own, if not necessarily inexpensive.
History
In October 2009, the first Sportbacks were delivered. Customers had a choice of 2.0-liter TFSI, 3.2-liter FSI, 2.0-liter TDI 170, or 3.0-liter TDI diesel engines. From spring 2010, performance-hungry customers could purchase an S5 Sportback. It possessed a 3.0 V6 petrol turbocharged engine with 328 bhp, and while it lacked spirit, it was quick and capable. The 2.0 TDIe engine was released in spring 2012 and offered 134 or 163 horsepower. At the same time, a new SE Technik trim was introduced. The Sportback range underwent an upgrade in October 2011. Along with the cosmetic changes, Audi expanded its lineup of engines with the addition of the 1.8 TFSI, 2.0 TDI 177, and 3.0 TDI 204.
Alternatives
Audi’s own A4 Avant estate, the BMW 3 Series Touring, and the Mercedes C-Class estate are competitors. None of them are inexpensive to buy or operate, despite the fact that they are all very well made, have terrific engines, and present a beautiful image. The Volkswagen Passat, often known as CC, possesses the A5 Sportback’s practicality but not its flair. More useful is the VW Passat estate, although the Honda Accord Tourer is also intriguing. Diesel Sportbacks are available in almost six to one more than petrol automobiles, and about two-thirds of them are manual transmissions. You may purchase an early example for about $12,000 if you don’t mind paying a six-figure mileage. It will probably be a 2.0 TDI SE. You must pay at least 14,000 if you limit the mileage to 60,000. Only S5s, which start at $28,000, are likely to be found with V6 gasoline engines. From 20,000, the 3.0 V6 TDI is a wiser choice.
Running costs
With variable servicing, all Sportbacks can go up to two years or 18,000 miles between visits to the shop. Hardly driven vehicles will require more frequent maintenance. Services range from minor to significant, costing 159 and 309 for a four-cylinder gasoline or diesel, respectively. At 40,000 miles (140), autos require a transmission oil change, and every two years, fresh brake fluid is needed (59). The only 2.0-liter TDI model features a cambelt, which must be replaced every 75,000 miles or five years (it costs 500, including a fresh water pump). Each service should include checking the air conditioning. A re-gas costs $79 dollars.