How much does it cost to replace a timing chain on a 2017 Ford Explorer?
Typical cost is roughly $1,000 to $2,500, depending on engine and labor rates. The exact price depends on the engine option (2.3L EcoBoost I4 or 3.5L V6 Ti-VCT, among others), whether a water pump and front seals are replaced, and the local labor rate. This article explains what affects the price, what’s included, and how to get an accurate estimate.
What’s included in a timing chain replacement
The job usually covers more than just the chain itself. Because the timing chain drives critical internal components, shops often replace the entire kit (chain, guides, tensioners) and associated seals, plus sometimes the water pump and other front-end components. Accessing and aligning the timing components requires removing the front engine cover and synchronized re-timing of the camshafts. The exact inclusions can vary by engine design and shop policy.
- Timing chain kit: chain, guides, tensioners, and in some engines, cam phasers.
- Gaskets and seals: front cover gaskets, valve covers, and other related seals as needed.
- Water pump: commonly replaced if it’s driven by or affected by the timing chain, or if the pump shows wear.
Prices and components can vary by engine variant and shop; some shops bundle the water pump with the kit, while others itemize it separately.
Estimated cost ranges by engine option
Costs differ based on the 2017 Explorer’s engine configuration and the job’s complexity. In the U.S., typical ranges are provided below to reflect common scenarios, but local rates and exact parts can shift these numbers.
- 2.3L EcoBoost I4: approximately $1,000 to $2,000 total (parts and labor).
- 3.5L Ti-VCT V6: approximately $1,200 to $2,500 total.
Note that some shops may quote higher if additional repairs are found or if you’re in a region with higher labor costs. Always request a written estimate that itemizes parts and labor before authorizing work.
Factors that can push the price higher
Several issues can elevate the final bill beyond the typical ranges:
- Labor rates by location and shop type (dealer vs. independent shop).
- Extent of disassembly required to access the timing components.
- Replacement of ancillary parts (e.g., water pump, thermostat, timing cover gaskets).
- Occurrence of additional damage discovered during service (e.g., valve or piston damage from a chain failure).
- Existing warranties or diagnostic fees that may affect the final quote.
Staying proactive with maintenance and addressing unusual engine noises early can help manage potential costs and prevent more expensive repairs later.
Tips to get an accurate estimate
To avoid surprises, gather multiple written estimates, request a detailed parts-and-labor breakdown, confirm whether the water pump is included, and clarify any diagnostic fees. If you proceed, ensure the shop provides a warranty on the workmanship and parts.
Summary
For a 2017 Ford Explorer, timing chain replacement generally costs between about $1,000 and $2,500, influenced by engine type and local labor rates. Parts typically cover the timing chain kit, tensioners, guides, seals, and sometimes the water pump. Prices vary by location and job complexity, so obtaining several written estimates is the best way to ensure you’re paying a fair price. If you hear ticking or rattling noises or see engine-related warning lights, have the vehicle inspected promptly to minimize the risk of serious engine damage.
Is it worth it to replace the timing chain?
Yes, replacing a timing chain is often worth it to avoid catastrophic engine damage, especially in interference engines. While a worn chain can cause poor performance and fuel efficiency, a broken chain can instantly destroy the engine, requiring a costly rebuild or replacement. Replacing it proactively, particularly as a preventative measure on older cars or those with high mileage, is significantly cheaper than replacing an entire engine.
This video explains why timing chain replacement is necessary and what can happen if it fails: 58sAuto Repair GuysYouTube · Sep 8, 2021
Reasons to replace a timing chain
- Avoid engine destruction: A broken timing chain can cause the pistons and valves to collide in an interference engine, which can immediately destroy the engine.
- Prevent costly repairs: Replacing the chain as maintenance is much cheaper than the cost of an engine rebuild or replacement after failure.
- Restore performance: A worn chain can lead to poor performance, rough idling, and misfires, which a new chain will fix.
- Improve fuel efficiency: Optimal engine timing, restored by a new chain, can lead to better fuel economy.
Signs that a timing chain needs replacement
- Rattling or clattering noise from the engine
- Check engine light is on
- Engine misfires
- Rough idling
- Difficulty starting the engine
- Metal shavings in the engine oil
This video discusses the common symptoms of a failing timing chain: 56sAuto Repair GuysYouTube · Jan 30, 2020
When to replace a timing chain
- As preventative maintenance: For older cars or those with high mileage (typically 80,000–120,000 miles), proactively replacing the timing chain can prevent failure before it happens.
- If signs of wear appear: If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, the chain should be inspected and likely replaced.
How much does it cost to fix a timing chain on a Ford Explorer?
The cost to replace a Ford Explorer timing chain typically ranges from \$1,200 to over \$2,000, but it can be significantly higher depending on the engine model and whether the engine needs to be removed for the job. The final price includes parts like the timing chain, tensioners, and fluids, plus the labor, which is the most significant expense.
This video explains why timing chain replacement is a time-consuming and expensive repair: 59sAuto V Fix YouTube · Oct 14, 2022
Factors influencing the cost
- Engine type: V6 engines, especially overhead cam (OHC) models, are often more complex and require engine removal, increasing labor costs.
- Labor time: The replacement can take five to eight hours or more, which is a significant portion of the total cost.
- Parts: While some parts are relatively inexpensive, a full timing chain set includes several components, such as tensioners, guides, and gaskets, which add up.
- Shop type: Dealerships often have higher labor rates than independent mechanics.
- Engine condition: If the timing chain failure has caused other internal engine damage, the total repair cost will increase substantially.
How to get a more accurate estimate
- Provide specific details: Be sure to give the mechanic the exact year, make, model, and engine size of your Ford Explorer.
- Ask for a full quote: Get a detailed quote that includes both parts and labor before authorizing any work.
- Compare quotes: It's a good idea to get estimates from several different mechanics, both dealerships and independent shops, to compare prices.
This video explains the potential consequences of driving with a broken timing chain: 45s8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Jun 29, 2025
How many timing chains does a 2017 Ford Explorer have?
Notes: Upper, Engine Timing Chain. Quantity per car: 2.
When should a timing chain be replaced on a Ford Explorer?
Ford recommends:
- cambelt/timing belt replacement at 6 years/100,000 miles/160,000 km, whichever comes first.
- chain drives replacement at 10 years/150,000 miles/240,000 km, whichever comes first.
