964

1989-1994 / Coupe / Targa / Cabriolet / Germany

Minor Engine

4. Timing Chain Tensioner Failure

Symptoms

A rattling noise from the front of the engine on cold start-up (chain slap). Erratic idle. In advanced cases, a metallic rattling that worsens with engine speed.

Cause

Early 964 engines (approximately 1989-1991) used hydraulic chain tensioner guides with a plastic material that became brittle with age and heat exposure. Porsche released updated tensioner components, but not every engine has received the upgrade.

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// More 964 problems

Other known issues

Common Engine

1. Oil Leaks (Chain Tensioner Housings)

Oil residue on the engine's lower surfaces, oil drips on exhaust components (burning oil smell), oil spots beneath the car.

Common Engine

2. Oil Leaks (Cam Cover Gaskets)

Oil on the cylinder heads and barrel surfaces, burning oil smell from exhaust contact.

Critical Engine

3. Oil Leaks (Cylinder Base Gaskets)

Oil around the cylinder bases, dripping down the engine. In severe cases, oil loss between services.

Minor Engine

5. Engine Bay Fires

Burning oil smell from the rear of the car (this is the warning sign). Smoke from the engine bay.

Common Engine

6. Distributor Drive Belt Failure

Sudden misfiring, rough running, or complete engine failure (no spark). If the belt has slipped rather than broken, the ignition timing will be incorrect, causing poor performance and potential backfiring. ---

Common Drivetrain

7. Dual-Mass Flywheel Failure

Rattling or chattering noise from the bellhousing area at idle, which disappears when the clutch pedal is depressed. Shudder on clutch engagement, particularly from a standstill. Vibration through the drivetrain at certain RPM ranges.

All 964 problems