The timing chain in your Nissan ensures the valves on the engine close and open at the proper intervals. The timing chain must have the right amount of tension to keep the rotation of the camshaft and crankshaft in sync and the valves of the engine closing and opening at the proper intervals. Your vehicle's Engine Timing Chain Tensioner makes sure the timing chain maintains the correct tension level to keep your engine working like it's supposed to.
Over time, your Nissan's timing chain can stretch. The Engine Timing Chain Tensioner helps keep the timing chain in the right place and under the appropriate amount of pressure, regardless of any stretching that may occur. If the Engine Timing Chain Tensioner on your vehicle is broken or worn out, it may cause the timing chain to loosen and fall out of place. A timing chain that falls out of place while driving could break, causing more severe damage. If the timing chain isn't functioning, the engine pistons and valves may collide, and the engine might stall.
A clear sign of a damaged Engine Timing Chain Tensioner may be a rattling noise around the engine bay. If you hear a metal-on-metal sound, it might signify that the timing chain is loose and is probably starting to wear out. In time, a loose timing chain may lead to additional problems, such as oil leaks.
If you believe your Engine Timing Chain Tensioner is damaged or worn out, it's best to let a professional technician inspect it to replace or repair it, as it can be a difficult process accessing the Engine Timing Chain Tensioner.
If you need to replace your Engine Timing Chain Tensioner, we recommend that you replace it with a genuine tensioner from Nissan Parts. Get help with professional installation at your nearest authorized Nissan service center.
This Engine Timing Chain Tensioner fits your Nissan Altima 2003-2006, Nissan Maxima 2004-2008, or Nissan Quest 2004-2009. Get more details in the What This Fits tab.
TENSIONER ASSY-CHAIN
Fits Altima, Maxima, Quest