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Symptoms of a Faulty Tensioner

Model: (Various brands) Various
Part: Timing belt

Video tutorial

In this video, you will learn the four main symptoms of a faulty timing belt tensioner, allowing you to diagnose when it needs replacing. The symptoms of a faulty tensioner include excessive movement of the tensioner when the engine is running; indeed, significant movement of the component may indicate weak elastic force or fluid leakage.

You should also check that the tensioner bolts are not loose, as this would produce a similar symptom. The second symptom is a worn drive belt, which causes slipping due to insufficient pressure from the tensioner.

The third symptom is a loud screeching noise; if the tensioner does not apply the correct pressure on the belt, it will slip, creating a loud noise caused by grease escaping from the pulley bearings, which will dry out and create noise. The fourth symptom is oil leakage from the hydraulic tensioner, which will reduce the tensioner's force on the belt; this applies only to vehicles equipped with such a system.


Updated on 20 October 2026 by ScegliAuto


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