timing chains

If the chain jumped it would not be occasional does the check engine light every come on?

I have seen the engine light come on like two times in the last three or four months, then it turns off. I had taken the car in for a recall for the throttle position sensor, but they said it was the timing chains. Of course the car was running fine at the time and had been for a few weeks.

For the rough running occasional like that it does not sound like a timing chain issue. Next time the check engine light comes on take it to a auto parts store and get the computer codes read. Write down the exact code numbers not code descriptions. Let me know what they are does it ever have a engine misfire while driving down the road? I just had one of these I was working on. Had some bad coils the first time it set the check engine light off. the second it did not but had two bad coils.The first time I replaced one coil.

You have been very helpful. Thank you for your time!

You are welcome that is what we are here for.

Well,
2008 saturn outlook 3.6.
Saturn tech says codes P0016,17,18,19 points to worn timing chain and other worn sprokets.
Can these be changed without engine removal?? How difficult? ??
Changed crankshaft position sensor, did not cure problem above.
Where to next, need to drive home 1500 miles to fix. Engine runs smooth, no misfires in cruise. Hard starting on first crank but starts on 2nd attempt. Slight surgING rpm in idle.
Yikes!!!
Charlie

Hey Charlie,

Yep yikes! It does sounds like the timing chains needs replacement. Here are guide to help you see what you are in for when doing the job.

It does look like you can do the job in the car.

Check out the diagrams (Below)

Please let us know what you find.

Cheers, Ken