Timing Chain or VVT noise

ikeever · Post by **ikeever** » 23 Feb 2026, 10:00

285K mile 3.2L 2011 XC90.

I'm getting some slight rattle noise in the timing assembly. It's not READ.

I'm doing a complete timing chain, guide, tensioner, ect rebuild.

My question to the group: FCP rebuild kit doesn't mention replacing both cam VVT gears. Does anyone have any experience with how to check these gears or if they wear out? It's a well-maintained engine, single owner. I'm struggling spending $500 on the gears alone for an engine with almost 300k miles... always leery about eBay used stuff cause it could have a half million miles on a "good used part" too. Let me know if anyone has already been here. Thanks

Post by **abscate** » 24 Feb 2026, 03:32

I replaced an exhaust VVT on my T5 at about 150k miles, maybe 175k miles? At 300k , they are certainly well unto their lifespan.

Use a piece of hose to isolate the noise to the hub with the timing cover off to confirm the diagnosis. I would only replace the noisy one, not a quiet one unless you are racking up 30k miles per year

Post by **xHeart** » 24 Feb 2026, 07:46

abscate wrote: ↑24 Feb 2026, 03:32 I replaced an exhaust VVT on my T5 at about 150k miles, maybe 175k miles? At 300k , they are certainly well unto their lifespan.

Use a piece of hose to isolate the noise to the hub with the timing cover off to confirm the diagnosis. I would only replace the noisy one, not a quiet one unless you are racking up 30k miles per year

2013A XC90 with 170,900 miles.
Lol!

Post by **ggleavitt** » 24 Feb 2026, 10:00

Motor is shared with the Land Rover and a couple of other vehicles. Might be wise to expand your search to cover those models. Maybe check the LR site and see if there's any information there- https://www.freel2.com/forum/topic32504.html for a representative post.

seandodwell63 · Post by **seandodwell63** » 02 Mar 2026, 07:27

Yes i can confirm LR parts for same engine much cheaper on the whole. Getting the LR part no is tricky but I use

https://www.advancedfactors.co.uk/32-ti ... rs-11988-c

to find the part no. then

https://britcar.com/process.php?xOid=38 ... 1765830729

to buy them although not all engine parts are shown on the AF web page

Hoep this helps, and if anyone know where to get oversize pistons for a re-bore on a 3.2 SI6 engine please let me know, cheaper ones that is, not LR or Volvo prices !!! I'm planning a full re-build on an old engine I have head is done just need to sort the block!