Book a Timing Chain Repair in Southport

Why choose the RAC for a timing chain replacement?

At the RAC, we've got over 125 years' experience helping UK drivers. We have the skills and knowledge to keep your vehicle running. We'll give you results you can rely on at a price you can afford.

Close up of an RAC Mobile Mechanic underneath a car

Book a timing chain repair

A timing chain keeps your engine running smoothly and avoids serious damage. If you're hearing unusual noises or experiencing performance issues, it could be a sign of a worn timing chain and it’s time to get it replaced.

Quality work

Any work done will meet the high standards set by the RAC.

Exceptional customer service

We’re friendly, straightforward and jargon-free

A mechanic inspecting the underside of a vehicle.

Book a diagnostic

A mechanic will check your car for faults and talk you through any repairs you might need. There are various ways to check for faults, which could include a physical examination or plugging in to check your car’s onboard engine management system.

Diagnostic check

We’ll look for any mechanical or electrical problems. If we need to, we’ll also check your car’s onboard engine management system. Depending on your car and issue, this will usually include: – Engine – Power steering – Brakes – Transmission – Exhaust system – Fuel injection system – Cooling system and air flow – Sensors

And it’s not just timing chain replacements that we do in Southport

RAC Approved Garages offer MOTs and services. Our professional mechanics have the expertise and experience to make sure your vehicle is operating safely and efficiently – results you can rely on at a price you can afford.

A close up of an RAC mobile mechanic looking under the hood of a car

Try one of our RAC Approved Garages

View all garages

Auto Technics Southport

Southport MOT's Managing Director, Chris Cross, discovered his passion for mechanics at the tender age of four years old. He would follow his father “like a shadow”, watching and learning while he tinkered with motorbikes and cars. By the age of 14, Chris was such a competent car mechanic that he removed his first engine from the chassis of an original Fiat 500. When Chris left school, aged 16, he was only out of work for a week before he went to work for Jack Hodson Ltd; a well-established garage in Bootle. At the same time he attended Riversdale Technical College, in Liverpool, gaining his City and Guilds Motor Vehicle Technicians Part 1, 2 and 3 qualifications. At the age of 21, Chris launched his own business, starting as a mobile mechanic before moving to a workshop in Formby. He finally settled the business at its current location, at 71 London Street, Southport, twelve years ago. All of which means that Chris has been a top flight car mechanic for more than 33 years. Chris constantly seeks to upgrade his skills and knowledge to remain at the top of his game. He has gained just about all the relevant qualifications possible and is a member of the Institute of Road Transport Engineers and Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI). Southport MOT is also an accredited Which? Trusted Trader, Unipart Car Car Centre and part of the Approved Garages network – so you can always be sure of the highest standards of customer service. Right-hand man, Mike, has been with the business for more than 25 years. His knowledge and expertise are second to none. While Chris' son, Tom, has followed in his father's footsteps to become a fully qualified technician at the garage and has been with the company for 15 years. “I'd like to think that people come to us because of what we can do. We tend to get a lot of problems that other car garages can't rectify because we've got a serious amount of experience in the motor trade. I've always liked cars and I take pride in doing a good job more than anything.” – Chris Cross, Managing Director, Southport MOT Talk to us today about our services onor email [email protected].

Autotechnics, 71 London Street, Southport, PR90TX

Woods Fleet Support Ltd

Operating in Preston, Lancashire, Woods Fleet Support not only provides vehicle breakdown assistance and recovery locally, but nationwide, due to a widespread network of trusted sub-contractors who are individually vetted to ensure they provide the best service possible for our customers. With an ETA of 60-90 minutes, our main aim is to have your vehicles operating and back on the road with as little down time as possible, therefore, any possible roadside repairs will be completed before deployment of a recovery vehicle. With a fully equipped and PAS43 & ISO9001 accredited workshop based in Preston, Lancashire, we provide full fleet maintenance, repair, breakdown, and MOT packages which is scheduled on our professional, fleet maintenance system meaning you can trust us to take care of your fleet whatever the needs.

Cuerdon Farm Liverpool Road Tarleton, Preston, PR46HN

Liverpool Mercedes, Anfield

Independent Mercedes Specialist & RAC Approved Garage and Repairer based in Anfield, Liverpool. Open Monday - Saturday Voted - Independent Mercedes & AMG Specialist Of The Year 2025 - United Kingdom - IE100 Awards 2025 Voted - Best Independent Vehicle Servicing Centre 2025 - North West England - Corporate Vision Automotive Awards 2025 Voted - Vehicle Servicing & Repair Centre of the Year - Corporate LiveWire Global Awards 2025/2026 Voted - Best Independent Mercedes-Benz Specialist 2025 - North West England - The Business Elite Awards - SME Voted - Best Independent Mercedes-Benz Specialist 2024 - North West England - The Business Concept Awards Voted - Vehicle Servicing & Repair Centre of the Year - Corporate LiveWire Global Awards 2024/2025 Voted - Best Specialist Automotive Servicing Company 2024 - North West England - The Business Concept Awards Voted - Best Specialist German Vehicle Servicing & Repair Centre In Merseyside In The UK Enterprise Awards 2023 - SME Voted - Vehicle Servicing & Repair Centre of the Year - Corporate LiveWire Global Awards 2023/2024

Unit 2 Castor Street, Anfield, Liverpool, L65AT

IN'n'OUT Autocentres Wigan

At IN’n’OUT Autocentres we offer fixed prices MOTs and Servicing for any make and model of car with no hidden extras. We are proud to be a ‘Which? Trusted Trader’ so we are really a garage you can trust. We also have a 5 Star Trustpilot reviews rating. We provide OEM parts and 12 months warranty on all parts and servicing. We only use premium Castrol oils in all servicing. Our services are all completed ‘while-u-wait’ so you have never have the inconvenience of losing your car for the day. You can watch your car as it is being worked on through the viewing window or sit back and relax in our clean and comfortable customer lounges with FREE Wi-Fi and coffee and read the latest magazines. Check out our latest reviews and BOOK NOW!!

Robin Park Road, Wigan, WN50BU

AWG Liverpool Limited

We set up in 2016 as a garage to repair vehicles because we have been appalled at some of the horror stories we have seen and heard about garages with customers vehicles. No need to book time off from work/ home commitments. We offer a FREE collection and delivery service for your vehicle. We are an honest, transparent and open garage, who prides itself on looking after the customer. Once you've had your car repaired with us, you'll bring your family and friends here too, we guarantee it!

131 Great Howard Street, Liverpool, L37AT

Frequently asked questions about a timing chain replacement

What does a timing chain do?

The timing chain links the crankshaft and camshaft to open and close the engine valves at the right times.

How complex is a timing chain repair?

Fixing a timing chain is complicated and means taking apart engine parts. It's not a good DIY project because it needs special tools and know-how. Let a skilled mechanic handle it.

What will happen if my timing chain breaks or is damaged?

If a timing chain breaks or is badly damaged, it can cause serious engine problems like bent valves and damaged pistons. The car may stop running and need major repairs.

Is it worth replacing a timing chain?

Yes, replacing a timing chain is worth it, especially if it's worn or due for replacement. It can prevent costly engine damage.

When should a timing chain be replaced?

A timing chain usually needs replacing between 60,000 to 100,000 miles. If you hear engine noise or misfires, think about replacing it sooner.

What are the symptoms of a timing chain going bad?

Signs of a bad timing chain include engine rattling, misfires, poor performance, metal shavings found in oil, and the engine light coming on. These signs show that the timing chain may need checked or replaced.

What can I do to prevent timing chain problems?

Regular maintenance prevents timing chain issues. Change oil regularly, use good quality oil, and check the engine for wear signs. Keep the engine lubricated and avoid rough driving to make the timing chain last longer.

What is the average cost to replace a timing chain?

Replacing a timing chain varies in cost based on your vehicle's make, model and its complexity. Prices range from hundreds to over a thousand pounds. Get an estimate from your service provider for a clear idea of the cost.