"My nearby pick and pull has plenty of these lined up."
This expert says Chevy Traverse timing chains can send the car to the junkyard even if it looks brand-new.
Auto Parts City, an auto salvage company located in Gurnee, Illinois, shared a video on Saturday showcasing a seemingly “clean” Traverse. Despite its outward appearance, the condition of the vehicle's engine left much to be desired.
As stated by the employee in the video, the vehicle has a defect that is prevalent among all Chevrolet Traverses. He cautions owners that disregarding the check engine light could lead to serious consequences.
As of now, the video has received more than 51,000 views and the numbers continue to rise.
Issues with the Traverse timing chains
“Chevy Traverse with Timing Chain Problems! 13 Codes! Very Common Problems with these vehicles!” the video’s caption warns viewers.
“Clean Chevy Traverses are very common at the junkyard,” the Auto Parts City expert claims in the video. “Somebody just junked this Traverse because of that right there,” he states, indicating an illuminated check engine light.
After connecting a diagnostic code reader to the vehicle, he reports that 13 codes are showing up for the warning light.
As he lifts the hood, he asserts, “The issue with these 3.6 [engines] is that the timing chains tend to elongate, leading to various engine complications.”
He mentions that fixing the timing chain problem would require approximately $3,000.
The expert then uses the diagnostic scanner to erase the codes, causing the warning light to go out. He states that he’ll send the car to auction, where it might be bought by a dealer or shop for parts.
What are timing chains?
To function properly, an internal combustion (gas) engine relies on a belt or chain mechanism to open the engine valves. This process enables the intake of air and fuel into the engine for combustion, which in turn powers the pistons.
According to Carfax, timing chains should generally last the engine’s lifetime. But if they do need to be replaced, the repair can be costly.
“Replacing a timing chain can cost $1,000 or more, depending on the vehicle,” it states. “It’s a complex job requiring a mechanic to remove many parts of the engine’s exterior before accessing the parts that need replacement.”
Additionally, "If the timing chain stretches excessively or breaks, it can alter the engine's timing. In severe situations, this could lead to the valves colliding with the pistons, potentially causing catastrophic damage to the engine."
The Daily Dot contacted Chevrolet through email to request a comment.
@autopartscity Chevy Traverse with Timing Chain Problems ! 13 Codes ! Very Common Problems with these vehicles ! #chevytraverse #copart #autorecycling #junkyard #ancel #obdscanner #checkenginelight #autopartscity ♬ original sound – AutoPartsCity
Audience opinions are gathered.
A viewer named Chuck (@notthatinteresting1) expressed his differing opinion, stating that he did not believe a $3,000 repair cost was excessively high.
"I just invested $4,000 in a two-decade-old car. It really comes down to whether you think it's a good deal. I thought spending $4,000 was preferable to dealing with a monthly car payment," he stated.
Other viewers share Auto Parts City's opinion regarding the Traverse.
"One person mentioned, 'My nearby pick n pull has plenty of these lined up in rows.'"
"Once again, the GM Timing Chain makes its presence felt," another person commented.
A viewer commented, "Wow, I'm searching for that specific color in a Traverse!"
Auto Parts City replied, “Please search for ANY OTHER SUV *excluding Enclave, Acadia, Pathfinder, and QX60.”
The Daily Dot contacted Auto Parts City through email and a direct message on TikTok to request additional comments.