Timing chains are standard on all Lexus GS350 engines from model years 2007 through 2021. From 2007 through 2021, every Lexus GS350 engine is interference.
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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In This Article...
When should the timing chain on a Lexus be changed?
Older cars might have a timing chain, which is comparable to a motorbike chain and has a lifespan of about 60,000 miles. For robustness and long life, more recent models use timing belts consisting of polyurethane and Kevlar. Although they can last up to 100,000 miles, it’s always a good idea to change them before that.
Lexus GS350 dependability
With a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5, the Lexus GS350 is ranked third among 30 full-size luxury vehicles. It has average ownership expenses since the average cost of annual repairs is $592. Repairs are more frequent, but compared to other cars, these problems are less likely to be catastrophic.
Timing belt on a Lexus 350?
The engine uses timing belts to maintain synchronization between the crankshaft and camshaft movements. Timing belts are constructed of heavy rubber that eventually deteriorates and needs to be replaced.
The 2013 Lexus RX 350, however, makes use of a timing gear. Timing gears are formed of thick metal and provide the same function as timing belts without needing to be replaced.
To keep your Lexus fresh, make sure to follow the car maintenance schedule in the owners manual or talk with a trustworthy professional.
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How much does a Lexus timing chain replacement cost?
Labor costs for The Best in Auto Repair are projected to range from $2,025 to $2,554, while parts are priced between $385 and $386. Taxes and other fees are not included in this range, nor are your particular model year or geographic area taken into account.
Timing chains: How long do they last?
When should a timing chain be changed? Unless there is a specific issue, the timing chain typically needs to be replaced between 80,000 and 120,000 miles. In automobiles with higher mileage, chain problems are frequent.
How can I tell if I need to replace my timing chain?
Timing chains do not require routine replacement, but timing belts do. The timing chain shouldn’t need to be changed unless it has been harmed, overworked, or otherwise compromised. Your car will most likely experience one or more faults if there is a timing chain issue.
A broken timing chain will show the symptoms listed below:
- The engine shakes or rattles while it is idling.
- The timing chain has noise.
- Starting the car is challenging.
- Misfiring engines and sluggishness
- The vehicle won’t start
- The check engine light is on.
You might hear noise coming from the area where the timing chain cover resides. This noise is frequently the result of a loose timing chain, which may be brought on by a broken timing chain tensioner, guide, or other issues. More serious issues will arise if you ignore the early warning signs, so be sure to check the timing chain as soon as you hear a noise coming from where it is mounted.
What is the maximum mileage for a Lexus GS 350?
A Lexus GS 350 should endure more than 200,000 miles with prudent driving and routine maintenance.
However, you should steer clear of 2013, which has the highest number of battery-related complaints.
The Lexus GS 350’s older models with the lowest reputation are those between 1998 and 2006.
Even though you’ll eventually need to replace the battery, which will be an expensive replacement, the GS 350 is a reliable Lexus product that has lasted the test of time and is still becoming better.
Why did Lexus stop manufacturing the GS?
An official from Lexus confirmed the information to Car and Driver after it was first reported by Yahoo Japan. The reason for its termination, according to Lexus, is the sedan market’s dropping sales and slowing demand.
Which Lexus model is superior, the ES or the GS?
Both vehicles use a six-cylinder engine and a six-speed automated transmission. The 2018 Lexus GS boasts 311 horsepower, higher torque, and worse gas consumption than the 2018 Lexus ES, which has 268 horsepower. Unlike the ES, which only comes with front-wheel drive, the GS also comes with all-wheel drive.
Which is superior, timing belts or chains?
Timing belts typically last less time than timing chains. Timing belts are made of rubber, which isn’t as strong as metal, but chains are made of metal, and this is the simple explanation for why this is the case. Timing belts are not weak, but they will probably need to be replaced at some point, whereas a chain can last the lifetime of the car.
Timing belts typically need to be replaced in the mileage range of 55,000 miles (about 90,000 km) and 90,000 miles (roughly 150,000 km). Therefore, a timing belt is still a very reliable and significant component of your car.
Whether your car has a timing chain or belt, it’s critical that you watch for any symptoms of wear and strain and take appropriate action. Depending on the sort of engine you have, a broken timing belt can have disastrous results. You could be better off searching to get a new vehicle if the repairs are too expensive to be practical.
How much does repairing a timing chain cost?
Timing chains can be changed by a professional for $1,600 to $1,800 or you can do it yourself for $600 to $800. The cost is significant because it’s challenging to replace this component.
Timing chain: Will the check engine light turn on?
A malfunctioning timing chain may be one of the many causes of the check engine light to come on. To identify the problem’s root cause, a car’s computer will flash warning lights that need to be checked and scanned for trouble codes. When the onboard computer notices a problem with the emissions system or engine operation, the check engine light may come on. The check engine light comes on and a diagnostic issue code is stored as a result of a stretched timing chain, which also adds to decreased engine performance and increased emissions. The code will need to be examined by a mechanic, who will then recommend the required fixes.
How long does a timing chain replacement take?
The crankshaft and camshafts in your engine are connected by a timing chain. During the combustion process inside the cylinders, camshafts accurately open and close the intake and exhaust valves. A qualified mechanic should need between 5 and 8 hours to replace the timing chain and all related gear.
How long does a Lexus timing belt last?
Every 60,000100,000 miles, several manufacturers advise replacing the timing belt as part of routine maintenance.
How can timing chain failure be avoided?
- Check your timing chain cover for leaks frequently.
- Make that the engine oil is not running low.
- Avoid letting the engine get too hot; if it does, don’t drive.
Can I drive on a bad timing chain?
The timing chain expands over time, as was already mentioned. Even though you can still drive with an old timing chain, we advise replacing it as soon as you observe stretch or other signs of failure.
A faulty chain can jump many teeth or entirely break if you drive on it for an extended period of time and it continues to strain, which can seriously harm your engine’s internal components.
How is a timing chain checked?
Remove all of the spark plugs and the distributor cap to properly assess the degree of timing chain wear. Turn the crankshaft at least two full revolutions backward of rotation with a wrench on the harmonic balancer bolt to release any slack in the timing chain.
What occurs if a timing chain malfunctions while you’re driving?
An engine with a broken timing chain will either not start or fail while being driven. The engine won’t start if the belt is already broken since there won’t be adequate compression. The pistons will sustain damage by coming into touch with the valves if it breaks or leaps while being driven. The actual valves will bend, possibly ruining the engine.