Replacing a Timing Chain Cost

• Hiring a mechanic to replace a timing chain typically costs $300 -$1,000, depending on the make and model of the vehicle, its age and whether the work is performed at a dealership or an independent shop.
• Purchased separately, a timing chain typically costs $50 -$250 or more. For example, Ford uses a timing chain on its 4.6-liter V-8, which is found in several popular models, including the F-150 pickup. A timing chain for a 2004 F-150 with the 4.6-liter V-8 costs $53 from national retailer Advance Auto Parts.
• Timing chains are often sold in kits which contain additional smaller parts that can be used in the repair. Prices for kits vary considerably, from $20 to $1,000,as replacement parts for some original equipment manufacturers simply cost more to build than for others. Some kits might be built using expensive materials, adding to the cost. For example, Iowa-based Northern Auto Parts sells the Buick High Energy Timing Set, which fits various General Motors vehicles built from 1962-1980, for $26; online retailer Rockauto.com sells the CLOYES 90393SA, which fits the 2002-2003 Jeep Liberty, for $406. One owner of a 1993 Nissan 240SX asked an Internet forum what the typical cost for a timing chain for that car was, and the answers ranged from $200 to $400. By comparison, in a similar forum, an owner of a 2004 Cadillac SRX was quoted prices of about $300.
• Expect to pay $75 -$120 per hour for labor, depending on whether the work is performed at a dealership or an independent shop. It depends on the model, but generally the job takes three-five hours. Costs can increase considerably, sometimes up to $700 or more, if the timing chain breaks before being replaced.
• Timing-chain failure seldom occurs when the car is still under warranty, so customers will usually have to pay for the replacement themselves. Dealerships typically charge more, but their technicians are intimately familiar with the brand of cars they work on and they use factory parts. Independent repair shops may charge less, but they may use aftermarket parts, which are manufactured to factory specifications, but are not made by the automaker.

• A timing chain kit should include the kit itself; any necessary seals, bolts and sprockets, and any other necessary accessories. A mechanic will be expected to remove and replace the chain, along with the aforementioned seals, bolts, sprockets, and accessories.
• If possible, it is best to get an estimate before approving any work. However, if the timing chain has failed, the car will not run and this might not be an option.

• The water pump is sometimes replaced along with the timing chain. Normally, water pump replacement is typically about $300; however, since the technician is already replacing the timing chain, labor costs may not be charged, and the customer would only be charged for the part, which is typically about $100.

• Some repair shops might offer a discount on repairs for regular customers, usually about 10%.
• Discounts can also come from the manufacturer itself. For example, Ford offers periodic rebates on a variety of routine maintenance.
• Timing chain replacement is a difficult job best left to professional mechanics or those with advanced auto-repair experience. Those who choose to do it themselves will need to set aside two-six hours. A certified master technician provides a step-by-step guide to replacing a timing chain.

• The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, a non-profit trade group for technicians and other automotive service professionals, has a searchable directory of certified shops.
• Several online retailers, including TechChoiceParts.com and RockAuto.com, sell timing chains. Timing chains are also available at national retailers, including Advance Auto Parts and Napa Auto Parts.

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