Timing chain

At what mileage is it good to have timing chain replaced? I got a 2012 2.7L Tacoma 53,000 miles. Thanks.

 

The timing chain should last the life of the engine. They aren’t like the old style belt that needs to be replaced. You could probably put over 300k on it.

 

From what I’ve been told they are good for the life of the engine. We have 2 2011’s with the 2.7. One with 185,ish and one with 250,ish both with original chains

 

If you keep up with your oil changes and use a quality oil it should be problem free for 200k+, most will last the life of the engine.

 

As long as you use good quality oil and keep up with the oil change interval it should last forever.

 

Only reason to replace is if you have chain noise, timing chain related codes or a big job that requires disassembly like headgasket replacement or something

 

Oil changes = chain is fine

 

You don't have to change it.

 

What they said……..

 

My truck is approaching 200k this year and I’m holding my breath on the timing chain and radiator.I will probably take it to Toyota next year to change both I would like to know what the quote is first.I’m not sure I have the guts to mess with it lol

I have heard so many people say 2 gens are known to break there chains at 200k not sure how valid this is.

 

I wouldn't worry about it too much, you will almost always get timing codes and/or a rattle on startup when the timing components get worn out.

On the radiator look for signs of leaks or cracking along the plastic tanks, usually age and lack of coolant maintenance deteriorates them more than mileage.

 

I agree.

I wouldn’t touch the chain or cover until I have a need.
If your timing cover is not leaking, leave it alone until you have a need to open it up.
I’ve never heard of any 1GR engines breaking chains, I’ve heard of the cam tabs breaking, but not the chain.

 

I could see a radiator for preventative reasons though, they are plastic

 

Thanks I appreciate it.Now if the timing chain breaks does it ruin the engine or just seize the engine.I been watching to many mechanic videos and they talk about how when timing chain breaks it can clash the piston rods and cause cracks in the engine etc.This is kind of worrying lol

 

The pistons might clash with the valves. The 1GR is an interference engine.
I’d still not worry about it. I’d worry about the frame first.
The chain will likely stretch and wear first. Which like DM93 said, you’ll get a code telling you there is a timing issue.

 

It will almost certainly bend the valves if it breaks but it rarely results in complete engine destruction, there are many engines that are known for timing chain failure (Ford 4.6/5.4L 3v & 4.0L SOHC and GM 2.4L Ecotec & 3.0/3.6L "High Feature" engines are a few of the worst ones I know about) I don't know of any Toyota engines that have any issues with timing chains breaking.

 

That truck isn't even broken in yet!