The use of special tools is not typically a line item charge, but may impact the hours of labor. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\nOther services to get alongside a timing cover gasket repair<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
When a timing cover gasket fails, it tends to spray oil all over the engine compartment. This creates a tremendous mess and becomes a binder for dirt and road debris to stick to, resulting in the premature wear of other parts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Related services include water pump replacement, cooling system parts and a timing belt or chain inspection (which a mechanic should offer along with the gasket repair).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Being proactive about replacing the coolant system parts can significantly reduce the potential of engine overheating, head gasket failure or a catastrophic timing belt break.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Can I do this repair myself?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
This is one of those repairs that should always be completed by an ASE-certified mechanic who has experience working with your make and model of vehicle. This is especially true if you have a timing chain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the timing chain is moved during the repair, it will impact ignition timing, which often results in piston-to-valve contact during the combustion stroke. If this happens, your engine will suffer catastrophic failure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many shade-tree mechanics will try to \u201cfix\u201d this problem using silicones and sealants \u2014 or even worse, oil additives that clog up the leak. While this method might put a Band-Aid over the issue, we strongly recommend not falling into this trap.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What’s involved in a timing cover gasket repair job?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
A certified mechanic or dealership service technician will always follow a structured 5-step process to repair or replace a timing cover gasket.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Step 1: Preparation: <\/strong>Once you agree with the estimate, the repairs will begin. The technician will start by draining the engine oil and coolant and removing all electrical connections, air intake, belts, drive pulleys and other components as required.<\/p>\n\n\n\nStep 2: Remove the timing cover: <\/strong>This is a precise process where inexperienced mechanics make some mistakes. The timing cover extraction involves removing a series of bolts in a specific pattern to avoid impacting the alignment of the timing chain or belt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- An experienced tech will also remove the cover and attempt to extract the gasket in one piece.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Step 3: Clean-up and prep: <\/strong>Before installing a new timing cover gasket, the mechanic will remove the older gasket material and any debris, then inspect the timing cover and engine block for any signs of damage or a non-flat surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- If they find that the engine block may be warped, they will inform you before completing additional repairs.This can significantly impact the overall cost of the repair. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Step 4: Installation<\/strong>: This is the easy part. They will apply the new gasket to the timing chain cover using a dedicated sealant, then carefully align the timing cover to the engine block.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- The final step is to install the bolts in a specific pattern that is always unique to the vehicle\u2019s engine type and manufacturer.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Step 5: Reinstallation of supporting parts:<\/strong> After completing the timing cover gasket installation, the last steps involve reinstalling any parts in the reverse order of their removal, refilling all fluids, running the engine to the recommended operating temperature and then checking for any oil or fluid leaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \n
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Pro tip: <\/strong>Most timing cover gasket repairs will be billed in two separate labor rates: the hours for removing and reinstalling supporting parts and the time for replacing the timing cover gasket. Expect to be billed for 3 – 8 total hours.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\nWhere can I get a timing cover gasket repaired?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Choosing the right shop to complete a timing cover gasket repair should begin with a local search. There are three specific qualifications you should expect your mechanic to have:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Vehicle specialist:<\/strong> They should specialize in your type of vehicle. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Oil leak specialist:<\/strong> They should have experience in diagnosing and fixing all types of oil leaks. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- OEM certification:<\/strong> They should have OEM certification for completing engine repairs for your exact vehicle type. For example, always defer to a BMW-certified technician if you own a BMW.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
You should always compare quotes from at least three different shops even if they require a physical inspection at their facility, as this type of due diligence can save you hundreds of dollars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Additionally, take the time to look for repair reviews specific to your type of vehicle and this repair. Remember, the best shop to pick for any mechanical repair is the one offering the highest quality work and best value\u2014not always the rock-bottom price.<\/p>\n\n\n
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Pro tip: <\/strong>Don\u2019t be discouraged by the initial price estimate, which will be higher than $800 in many cases. If this issue is left unresolved, it may quickly lead to overheating, head gasket failure and a complete engine replacement \u2014 which exceeds a minimum of $5,000.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n