This procedure replaces the timing chain tensioner on the 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla 1.8L engine to eliminate chain noise or rattling and restore proper timing chain tension.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Timing chain tensioner × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Timing cover gasket kit × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Valve cover gasket × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Crankshaft pulley seal × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Engine oil and filter × 1 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Toyota Genuine 0W-20 — 4.5 qt
• Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (Pink) — 2 qt

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cool
2. Disconnect negative battery terminal and secure away from battery post
3. Raise and secure vehicle on jack stands
4. Remove right front wheel and inner fender splash shield
5. Drain engine oil and coolant into appropriate containers
6. Remove engine air intake assembly and any interfering hoses
7. Support engine from below with jack and wood block on oil pan (not center, use edge)

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove Engine Accessories and Mount
   Remove the serpentine belt by releasing the tensioner. Remove the right engine mount and bracket to provide access to the timing cover. Support the engine weight with the support fixture or jack before removing the mount bolts.
2. 2

   Remove Crankshaft Pulley
   Using the crankshaft holding tool to prevent rotation, remove the crankshaft pulley bolt. This bolt is very tight at 167 Nm. Use a breaker bar if necessary. Remove the crankshaft pulley from the crankshaft.
3. 3

   Remove Valve Cover
   Disconnect ignition coils and any vacuum lines attached to the valve cover. Remove valve cover bolts in reverse of tightening sequence (outside to inside). Carefully lift valve cover away and remove gasket. Clean mating surfaces thoroughly.
4. 4

   Rotate Engine to TDC Cylinder 1
   Rotate the crankshaft clockwise using a socket on the crankshaft bolt until the timing marks on the camshaft sprockets align with the marks on the timing chain cover or cylinder head. Verify the crankshaft keyway is pointing upward (12 o'clock position). Take photos of all timing marks and chain positioning before proceeding.
5. 5

   Remove Timing Cover
   Remove all timing cover bolts, noting there are different lengths and sizes (10mm and 8mm heads). The 8mm bolts require 25 Nm torque on reinstallation. Carefully separate the timing cover from the engine block. If stuck, tap gently with a rubber mallet. Do not pry against sealing surfaces.
6. 6

   Mark and Verify Timing Chain Alignment
   With timing cover removed, verify all timing marks are still aligned. Mark the timing chain position relative to the camshaft and crankshaft sprockets with paint or a marker for additional reference. Identify the colored links on the timing chain and their relationship to the sprocket marks.
7. 7

   Remove Timing Chain Tensioner
   Locate the timing chain tensioner on the front of the engine. Remove the tensioner bolt and carefully extract the tensioner assembly. Note the orientation and position of the tensioner. The chain will become loose after removal but should remain on the sprockets if engine is at TDC and not disturbed.
   ⚠Do not rotate crankshaft or camshafts after tensioner removal. Chain slack makes timing loss possible.
8. 8

   Inspect Timing Chain Components
   With tensioner removed, inspect the timing chain for wear, stretching, or damage. Check the chain guide rails for excessive wear or scoring. Inspect both camshaft sprockets and the crankshaft sprocket for wear. If any components show significant wear, they should be replaced at this time.
9. 9

   Prepare New Tensioner
   Remove the new timing chain tensioner from packaging. The tensioner must be compressed and locked before installation. Using a small vise or press, slowly compress the tensioner plunger. Insert the retaining pin or clip through the hole to hold it in the compressed position. Do not force or compress too quickly.
10. 10

    Install New Tensioner
    Position the new compressed tensioner into the engine block bore. Ensure the tensioner is fully seated and properly oriented. Install and tighten the tensioner bolt to 25 Nm. Verify the retaining pin is still in place holding the tensioner compressed.
11. 11

    Verify Timing and Release Tensioner
    Double-check that all timing marks remain aligned on the camshaft sprockets and crankshaft. Once confirmed, carefully remove the retaining pin from the tensioner to allow it to apply tension to the timing chain. The tensioner should extend smoothly. Rotate the crankshaft two complete revolutions clockwise and verify all timing marks realign correctly at TDC.
12. 12

    Install Timing Cover with New Gasket
    Clean all gasket surfaces on the engine block and timing cover thoroughly. Apply new gasket or RTV sealant per manufacturer specifications to the timing cover mating surface. Position the timing cover carefully and install all bolts hand-tight first. Tighten 10mm bolts to 13 Nm and 8mm bolts to 25 Nm in the specified sequence (center outward).
13. 13

    Reinstall Crankshaft Pulley
    Install the new crankshaft seal into the timing cover if not already done. Position the crankshaft pulley onto the crankshaft, aligning the keyway. Install the crankshaft pulley bolt and tighten to 167 Nm using the holding tool to prevent crankshaft rotation.
14. 14

    Reinstall Valve Cover
    Install new valve cover gasket onto the valve cover or cylinder head per design. Position valve cover carefully and install bolts hand-tight. Tighten valve cover bolts to 10 Nm in the proper sequence (center outward, alternating side to side). Reconnect ignition coils and vacuum lines.
15. 15

    Complete Reassembly
    Reinstall the engine mount and bracket. Install the serpentine belt. Reinstall the right front fender splash shield and wheel. Refill engine oil with 4.5 quarts of Toyota Genuine 0W-20. Refill coolant system with Toyota Super Long Life Coolant. Reconnect battery negative terminal.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all timing cover bolts are tightened to proper specifications and in correct sequence
2. Verify serpentine belt is properly routed and tensioned
3. Double-check that all electrical connectors and vacuum lines are reconnected
4. Confirm oil drain plug and oil filter are properly installed before filling with oil

Verification

• Start engine and listen for abnormal timing chain noise or rattling - there should be none
• Allow engine to reach operating temperature and check for oil or coolant leaks around timing cover and valve cover
• Verify smooth idle with no misfires or timing-related codes
• Road test vehicle under light and moderate acceleration to confirm proper engine operation
• Recheck oil level after initial run and top off if necessary

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