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I Does anybody know if a faulty timing chain will pull P0011 OBD code?
I've replaced Both VTC solenoids and Both Cam position sensors. Cleared the light only to have it come back on. Still getting the P0011 code. Thinking of replacing Crank shaft sensor as well.
I also replaced TB Gaskets and manifold gasket.
Any input will be appreciated. Car is in my garage, don't want to drive and create any potential serious damage.
the chain isn't what goes bad, it's the tensioner guides. when they go bad you will get codes for both cams being off time as well as noise and driving poorly.
I get a P0021 every once in a while. I cheaped out on my solenoids but I think my front intake cam sensor may be the issue since the 2014 engine I swapped in was from a car that was hit in the front hard enough to break the valve cover on the front bank. I have a new Hitachi sensor on the way, hopefully it solves the problem. engine is running fine though...
It's always there. It comes back within a mile or 2 after clearing with OBD. Thinking of replacing Crankshaft sensor as well. All I know. I am not paying the dealership $3.500.00 for a new chain.
timing chain job is pricey and not worth it for a high mileage engine, especially if it consumes oil like mine did. I paid $1,200 for my 2014 engine which only had 102,000 miles. you could do a complete swap plus extra for $3,500. I spent more than needed because I picked up a new power steering pump (aluminum), 4th gen 125 amp alternator, oil pan with cooler delete hardware, and water pump cover. I had the new engine fully prepped for a quicker install.
Last edited by uptownsamcv; Mar 7, 2024 at 09:38 AM.
When my timing chain tensioner broke a couple of years ago on my 2003 vehicle, I had 170,000 miles on it. I called around some local garages, none of them wanted to touch my car given how old it is. I bit the bullet and fixed it myself. I agree with the comments here. It is PIA.
not as much of a pain with the engine out but still time consuming. when it comes to sealing the timing cover as well as oil pan you gotta do serious prep work as well as let it fully cure before putting in oil for a lasting seal.
not as much of a pain with the engine out but still time consuming. when it comes to sealing the timing cover as well as oil pan you gotta do serious prep work as well as let it fully cure before putting in oil for a lasting seal.
I've changed the oil pan once or twice over the years. Have to line up gasket holes. I used form a gasket, worked very well. I know with TC cover care must be taken not to contaminate the oil groves sitting over the guides. Not my "Cup of tea" LOL.
I used ultra gray on my old engines oil pan and with really good surface prep I had no leaks from February of 2013 until I pulled the engine in March of 2023. I use wire brush and wipe surfaces with rubbing alcohol until those thick blue shop paper towels stop staining.
I used ultra gray on my old engines oil pan and with really good surface prep I had no leaks from February of 2013 until I pulled the engine in March of 2023. I use wire brush and wipe surfaces with rubbing alcohol until those thick blue shop paper towels stop staining.
That will do it. I value your opinion.
I got a question: What are the chances of selling this thing considering the car has the P0011 code that keeps coming back?
It runs good. However I use to have a "Hard Start" when Hot. Now the hard start begins at first crank since the P0011 code. Put new TB in did not work, so I put the old one back on.
Does your car have the timing chain rattle noise? This happens because the timing chain tensioners fail due to the plastic parts breaking. The timing chain become loose. Left not fixed, it will get worse.
You might find someone who likes to tinker with cars and buy it from you. Given the complexities of fixing it, the average educated buyer will likely not want your car.
Does your car have the timing chain rattle noise? This happens because the timing chain tensioners fail due to the plastic parts breaking. The timing chain become loose. Left not fixed, it will get worse.
You might find someone who likes to tinker with cars and buy it from you. Given the complexities of fixing it, the average educated buyer will likely not want your car.
The only un-familiar noise I hear is at start up. Car drives like there is nothing wrong. It's that blasted re-occurring P0011 code that annoys me. I replaced the VTC solenoid on Bank 1. I replaced both Cam. Pos. Sensors. I used Hitachi parts ( Not Cheap). I am going to get a new Crank shaft sensor & try that. I bought this car new back in 2002. I've maintained it my self. I rebuilt the whole front end, replaced PS pump (nightmare job!) Tie rod ends, etc. I love the car.
Can the chain tensioners be replaced without ENGINE REMOVAL? If so, I may try to tackle it myself.
BTW, Nissan quoted me $3,500.00 to do the chain job.
The noise will get louder and lasts longer over time. Somewhere along the way, the chain will become so loose that the car will likely not be drivable. Most seasoned DIYer’s will recommend removing the engine to access the timing chain cover. But that is knowledge way beyond my pay grade.
It is possible to fix the problem without removing the engine. I am gifted with small hands and my timing chain problem happened during COVID lock down. So I had lots of free time with nowhere to go.
My skill level is probably similar to yours. My most complex fix until the timing chain tensioner was replacing my entire AC system. My car is 2003 and purchased in 2006. I got plenty of use out of it over the last 2 decades.
My thinking was this. I can’t find a local garage to even give me a quote. I knew that the dealer will charge me more than what the car is worth to fix it. Given my situation and lots of free time, I got brave and tackled the job.
I took a chance and was successful but I was mentally ok with it if I ruined my car and I had to get a new one too. This picture is upside down but this is what you are looking for once you open the timing chain cover.
The noise will get louder and lasts longer over time. Somewhere along the way, the chain will become so loose that the car will likely not be drivable. Most seasoned DIYer’s will recommend removing the engine to access the timing chain cover. But that is knowledge way beyond my pay grade.
It is possible to fix the problem without removing the engine. I am gifted with small hands and my timing chain problem happened during COVID lock down. So I had lots of free time with nowhere to go.
My skill level is probably similar to yours. My most complex fix until the timing chain tensioner was replacing my entire AC system. My car is 2003 and purchased in 2006. I got plenty of use out of it over the last 2 decades.
My thinking was this. I can’t find a local garage to even give me a quote. I knew that the dealer will charge me more than what the car is worth to fix it. Given my situation and lots of free time, I got brave and tackled the job.
I took a chance and was successful but I was mentally ok with it if I ruined my car and I had to get a new one too. This picture is upside down but this is what you are looking for once you open the timing chain cover.
Thanks for your input. Just to confirm, you did it without engine removal? Time is not a problem. Currently I am driving my 2018 Pathfinder, only 16.400 miles. I am thinking about doing it if the crankshaft sensor does not clear code.
Thanks for your input. Just to confirm, you did it without engine removal? Time is not a problem. Currently I am driving my 2018 Pathfinder, only 16.400 miles. I am thinking about doing it if the crankshaft sensor does not clear code.
Thanks again! All the best........
Yes - I did it without removing the engine. I took my time and lots of breaks whenever I got stuck but I persevered. I have driven over 15,000 miles since the fix. Engine runs great now.
Given this is an advanced fix, there aren't many YouTube videos on the topic but this is one that I found the most useful for removing timing chain cover without removing the engine. It is a 3 part series. Best of luck if you decide to tackle this job.
Yes - I did it without removing the engine. I took my time and lots of breaks whenever I got stuck but I persevered. I have driven over 15,000 miles since the fix. Engine runs great now.
Given this is an advanced fix, there aren't many YouTube videos on the topic but this is one that I found the most useful for removing timing chain cover without removing the engine. It is a 3 part series. Best of luck if you decide to tackle this job.
I tell you something man, What you did is very commendable.........Thanks for the encouragement & Vids. I am going to carefully think this through. Al though it's very tough, I see it's possible with enough time and MENTAL PERSEVERENCE. Thanks again.
A mechanic is like a surgeon. You should never rush him/her .
Some other thoughts if you do decide to tackle this job. While I was doing the timing chain tensioner fix, I took advantage of the fact that I had to dissemble or had access to other exposed parts. I proactively replaced my water pump, thermostat, power steering belt, CV axle (torn boot). Since I had the timing off cover off, I replaced all tensioners and guides (3 of them if I remember). The main one is the one on the left hand side (see picture). If one is broken, then I assumed the other ones are weak. The parts are cheap to buy. It is the labor that is expensive. This is one time that I recommend only use OEM. They are engine parts. So don't trust some knock off brand. I would shoot myself I had to do it again.
Final advice - if you get stuck, ask for help. The senior members in this forum got me through. I was definitely not in my knowledge comfort zone. But I have learned so much by doing it - successfully. Good Luck!
A mechanic is like a surgeon. You should never rush him/her .
Some other thoughts if you do decide to tackle this job. While I was doing the timing chain tensioner fix, I took advantage of the fact that I had to dissemble or had access to other exposed parts. I proactively replaced my water pump, thermostat, power steering belt, CV axle (torn boot). Since I had the timing off cover off, I replaced all tensioners and guides (3 of them if I remember). The main one is the one on the left hand side (see picture). If one is broken, then I assumed the other ones are weak. The parts are cheap to buy. It is the labor that is expensive. This is one time that I recommend only use OEM. They are engine parts. So don't trust some knock off brand. I would shoot myself I had to do it again.
Final advice - if you get stuck, ask for help. The senior members in this forum got me through. I was definitely not in my knowledge comfort zone. But I have learned so much by doing it - successfully. Good Luck!
Thank you good Sir. For sure I will replace water pump. I replaced thermostat along with the radiator & hoses about 3 years ago. I have new belts and a new PS idler pulley. Will do them as well pending the Big Decision.
Thanks for your help. STAY WELL!
Yep, original paint, always garaged, 2 owner car - my cousin ordered it new in Dec.2001.
He gifted it to me 6 years ago at 53k miles, so I'm not overdoing it badly lol.
He couldn't drive the stick anymore due to medical reasons - he's since passed - miss him a lot - real car guy.
