Timing Chain Replacement

[StagnantSloth]

Hello,

 Before getting into the details of my problem, this is my vehicle information:

 Make/Model:  2013 Toyota RAV4, LE Sport Utility 4D

Engine: 4-Cyl, 2.5 liter

Transmission: Automatic

Mileage: 83 000 miles.

2WD

Location: United States 

 

The vehicle recently started making a loud rattling noise from the engine upon startup. This issue only occurred when the vehicle was starting with a cooled engine and would go away after a few minutes. There was no error code being given off the dash. The vehicle was driven for a few days before bringing it into the mechanic.

 I brought the vehicle to a mechanic that I regularly use. I’m not too familiar with vehicles, so, I’ll provide what my original work order says that they did:

 

Variable valve timing sensor remove & replace.

 

And then there’s a replacement part listed: Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid

 When I picked up the vehicle, they told me that there would likely still be some rattling noise from the engine upon startup and told me that it was an issue that occurs at times with the Rav4’s when they start getting older - and there was indeed continued rattling upon startup that went away after a couple minutes.

 

I brought the vehicle home (15 minute drive) and the following day when I went to use the vehicle again, it was giving off an engine light. I tested for the engine code and the code it was giving off was: P0017

 

I brought the vehicle back to the original mechanic and they just recently got back to me, stating that the timing chain now needs to be replaced, among other things and that it will cost over $4000 USD.

 

I've attached two pictures of the work orders (which I hope I attached properly). The $687 one is the original work done and the $4000+ one is the suggested work to be done.

 

I was wondering if I could get any thoughts on this situation? The cost is quite significant from what I was expecting. The original repair that they did was a bit over 600.

 

Thank you for any information.

 

 

[Strangely Brown]

This may help...
 

 

[TonyHSD]

Hi, 

these rattling at cold start are well known issues with some Toyota engines but usually happens at higher miles. There are two or three major possibilities for these: timing chain tensioner, vvti solenoid, and vvti sprocket. If you around Chicago area there is a guy called the car care nut, he is a master technician from Toyota and he is running his own garage now plus he has a YouTube channel. He is the one who can help the best. If too far from there then you can get in touch with him for online help or suggestions. You can test the solenoid and replace the timing chain tensioner first as cheaper steps but don’t do that unless 100% sure any of these needs replacement. Use only originals Toyota parts too. That’s the best. Timing chain it’s very unlikely to need replacement at that mileage. 
Good luck 

[flash22]

If it only rattles at startup then settles, it's likely to be a failing chain tensioner (sprung and oil fed IIRC)

that's about 1500-2000 bucks high it can be done in the engine bay, no need to pull the engine no need to touch the A/C

get a few more quotes