Common Symptoms of a Faulty Camshaft Timing Gear

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The Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system is widely used in modern vehicles, including Toyota's VVT-i, Honda's VTEC, BMW's VANOS, Ford's Ti-VCT, and Hyundai's CVVT. The Camshaft Timing Gear is a critical component in the VVT system. Its purpose is to maintain the synchronization between the crankshaft and camshaft.

This synchronization allows the intake and exhaust valves on the cylinders to open and close at the proper time during the intake–exhaust strokes. If the Camshaft Timing Gear fails, the air/fuel mixture will enter the cylinder incorrectly, and the exhaust gas will still be trapped in the cylinder without being completely discharged.

This condition leads to decreased power output, increased emissions, and higher fuel consumption. This article highlights the common symptoms of a faulty Camshaft Timing Gear, helping identify potential problems and their underlying causes.

What Causes Camshaft Timing Gear Failures?

Physical Damage: Impacts, vibrations, exposure to thermal stress, improper installation, or corrosion-caused fractures and deterioration of the camshaft, affecting the performance and lifespan of the Camshaft Timing Gear.

Timing Belt/Chain Issues: The Camshaft Timing Gear is often driven by a timing belt or chain. If the timing belt or chain is worn, stretched, or broken, it can lead to improper gear operation or complete failure.

Wear and Tear: Over time, the constant movement and interaction with other engine components can cause the timing gear to wear. This natural wear and tear can lead to gear teeth becoming worn or damaged, impacting the gear's ability to maintain proper synchronization.

Common Symptoms of a Faulty Camshaft Timing Gear

Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) or Check Engine Light (CEL) Illuminates

The Camshaft Timing Gear is responsible for precisely controlling the timing of the engine’s valves in order to optimize engine performance and efficiency. If it malfunctions, it can cause improper valve timing. In this case, the Engine Control Module (ECM) will detect any abnormalities, trigger the vehicle's onboard diagnostics system to illuminate the MIL and store a corresponding Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) in its memory. An Innova Scan Tool can quickly identify which DTC has caused the MIL to illuminate.

Rattling Noises

The Camshaft Timing Gear engages with other gears and components. If the gear's teeth are worn or damaged, it can create abnormal mechanical interactions, producing rattling, knocking, or grinding sounds. Neglecting unusual noises coming from the engine compartment may lead to damage to additional engine components over time.

Backfiring

A faulty Camshaft Timing Gear can cause valves to open or close at the incorrect time, leading to premature or retarded ignition of the air/fuel mixture. Potentially causing unburnt fuel to be ignited in the exhaust system, even without a flame present in the exhaust pipe, leading to backfire.

Increased Emissions

A faulty Camshaft Timing Gear causes improper valve timing, leading to incomplete combustion. This increases the emission of unburned hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO), and nitrogen oxides (NOx), as the engine fails to burn the air/fuel mixture completely and efficiently.

Engine Misfires

The Camshaft Timing Gear plays a crucial role in synchronizing the opening and closing of the intake and exhaust valves with the movement of the pistons. If it is damaged, the camshaft may not rotate at the correct speed or angle, leading to a mismatch in valve timing. This misalignment causes the air/fuel mixture to enter the combustion chamber at the wrong time, resulting in engine misfires.

Identify A Faulty Camshaft Timing Gear with the Innova Scan Tool

The Innova Scan Tool is a valuable diagnostic device designed to identify issues within a vehicle's systems. It aids in diagnosing and resolving problems related to the Camshaft Timing Gear by retrieving and identifying DTCs linked to it. The tool effectively diagnoses Camshaft Timing Gear-related issues in vehicles, helping you pinpoint and address problems effectively.

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