Avensis - Timing Chain Problem

[rajvosa2000]

Hi, I have 2001 Avensis 1.6 Aura with a low mileage – 46000 miles and mostly used for everyday short trips (15-20 minutes). In recent months it developed a strange rattle coming from the engine (I think). The sound is louder when engine is cold and it goes down as it gets wormer, but it does not go away. This particularly happens in 2nd and 3rd gear and it seems to almost disappear in 4th /5th. I have just serviced the car and the mechanic (Toyota) has told me that it is probably the timing chain, but in order to check they need minimum 2 hours = 150 euro labor, but cannot guarantee they will locate/fix the problem. Otherwise, the car drives perfectly, no problems with acceleration or anything else.

Any idea? Has anyone had any problem like this and if yes how serious is it?

THank you very much in advance to all

[t-spiritpete]

Hi, I have 2001 Avensis 1.6 Aura with a low mileage – 46000 miles and mostly used for everyday short trips (15-20 minutes). In recent months it developed a strange rattle coming from the engine (I think). The sound is louder when engine is cold and it goes down as it gets wormer, but it does not go away. This particularly happens in 2nd and 3rd gear and it seems to almost disappear in 4th /5th. I have just serviced the car and the mechanic (Toyota) has told me that it is probably the timing chain, but in order to check they need minimum 2 hours = 150 euro labor, but cannot guarantee they will locate/fix the problem. Otherwise, the car drives perfectly, no problems with acceleration or anything else.

Any idea? Has anyone had any problem like this and if yes how serious is it?

THank you very much in advance to all

Hi mate, not much help I know but I don't think that the timing chain is faulty if that mileage is genuine but I suppose anything can fail.

Has the engine ever been low on oil in the past?

Pete.

[bestseany]

How often is the oil changed?