The most common signs of a faulty timing chain are engine misfires, metal shavings in the oil, and rattling noises from the engine while idling. Since the inception of the internal combustion engine, one constant has remained – all of them have a timing chain or timing belt. Most higher-displacement engines have a timing chain as opposed to a timing belt. The chain is located in the front of the motor and is attached to a set of gears and pulleys that power multiple mechanical components, including the crankshaft and camshaft. In order for your engine to fire, the timing chain must smoothly rotate around the gears without hesitation. Although the timing chain is made out of metal, it is subject to wear and tear and may break if not replaced as recommended by the manufacturer.