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When it comes to performance and luxury, Mercedes-Benz makes it to the list of the best cars. But these vehicles are not without their problems and one of the problems that have been noted to affect these high-end cars is plastic guide rail failure.

The guide rail is an extremely important part of the car’s timing system which ensures that the timing chain does not go off track. When it fails, this can lead to severe engine trouble which usually has signs that can hardly be mistaken. Let’s look at the causes of plastic guide rail failure, how to diagnose it, and how to repair it so your Mercedes stays in good shape.

What is a Guide Rail and Why Is It Important?

In a Mercedes engine, the timing chain is known to coordinate the operations of the engine components for instance the valve and the pistons at the correct times. Timing chains make use of components such as guide rails to avoid any form of misalignment. The guide rail is a track that provides the chain with direction as the engine runs.

Most of the new models of Mercedes use plastic guide rails because they are lightweight and low-cost components; however, like many other materials, they do not last forever. When the guide rail wears out it can no longer effectively guide the timing chain and if not rectified, could pose a danger to the engine.

How To Rectify Mercedes Plastic Guide Rail Failure

  • Professional Inspection: Since timing chain problems are a little difficult to fix, it is recommended that you take your Mercedes to a competent mechanic. They can physically check the timing chain system and then determine whether the guide rails are really the problem.
  • Replace Worn-Out Guide Rails: The most common thing to do is to change the plastic guide rails if they are in any way damaged or worn out. In the course of this, the mechanic will most probably check and replace any other worn out timing system part for the system to work properly.
  • Consider Replacing the Timing Chain: Sometimes it is advisable to change the timing chain with the guide rails as they are usually interrelated. This can extend the life of the repair and give added assurance especially if the car has a high mileage.
  • Regular Maintenance and Oil Changes: To eliminate future problems in guide rails, make sure you follow proper maintenance schedule: Oil changes are very important, as clean oil helps to decrease the wear of all the timing parts including the plastic guide rails.
  • Upgrade to Metal Guide Rails: Sometimes it may be possible to replace plastic guide rails with better metal ones. This is not always possible for every make of a Mercedes, but it should be considered when speaking to the mechanic. Metal guide rails are heat and aging resistant and if used may increase the longevity of the timing system.

Factors Responsible For Plastic Guide Rails Failure

  • Aging and Material Fatigue: The plastic material used in the guide rails degrades with time due to oil and mechanical loads in the engine. Over some time, the plastic used can crack or wear out, particularly if the car has a high number of miles.
  • Heat Exposure: Heat generated by the engine can be very unforgiving to plastic parts. High temperatures generated in the operation of high performance engines hasten the degradation of the plastic. When the plastic rails wear out then they become brittle which means they can break at any time affecting the position of the timing chain.
  • Infrequent Maintenance: Timing chains and guide rails are like many other parts of the engine; they also require routine servicing. If you do not change your oil or have your Mercedes serviced as required, the guide rails deteriorate much quicker than normal.

Come To The Most Trusted Mercedes Shop In Santa Cruz

It is common knowledge that some Mercedes Mercedes Plastic Guide Rail Failure Fix models have problems with the plastic guide rail but with good maintenance and timely replacement, your car will be as good as new. If there is a sign of trouble in your guide rail, don’t wait for the problem to get out of hand as this may lead to a lot of damage and affect the performance of your Mercedes.

Hayes European is a company that focuses on Mercedes and other popular European brands, and we can assist you in identifying and solving your guide rail problems. Our team has years of experience and with the focus on quality, we will keep your Mercedes as efficient as the first day. Based in Santa Cruz, we also serve Capitola, Aptos, and Soquel, CA. Book your next Mercedes repair now!

* Mercedes-Benz C-Class Car image credit goes to: Artistic Operations.

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