Engine-CodesGeneric – P1390

P1390 Code - Timing Belt Skipped One Or More Teeth

Quick Answer

When the diagnostic code P1390 is triggered, it indicates that the timing belt in the vehicle has skipped one or more teeth on the timing gears. Common causes include Over time, the timing belt can wear out and stretch, causing it to skip teeth on the timing gears, Improper installation of the timing belt or incorrect tension can lead to skipping teeth, A seized or failing timing belt tensioner can cause the belt to skip. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P1390 indicates Timing Belt Skipped One Or More Teeth.
Common causes
Common causes include Over time, the timing belt can wear out and stretch, causing it to skip teeth on the timing gears, Improper installation of the timing belt or incorrect tension can lead to skipping teeth, A seized or failing timing belt tensioner can cause the belt to skip.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 25, 2024
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Code P1390 Description

When the diagnostic code P1390 is triggered, it indicates that the timing belt in the vehicle has skipped one or more teeth on the timing gears. The timing belt plays a crucial role in synchronizing the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft in the engine. If the timing belt skips teeth, the engine's timing is thrown off, leading to potential issues with engine performance and efficiency. This can result in misfires, poor acceleration, rough idling, and potentially even engine stalling.

OBDII Code P1390 - Timing Belt Skipped One Or More Teeth
P1390 Code - Timing Belt Skipped One Or More Teeth

Common Causes of P1390

  1. Over time, the timing belt can wear out and stretch, causing it to skip teeth on the timing gears.
  2. Improper installation of the timing belt or incorrect tension can lead to skipping teeth.
  3. A seized or failing timing belt tensioner can cause the belt to skip.
  4. A damaged or worn timing gear can also contribute to the issue.

Symptoms of P1390

  1. Engine misfires
  2. Poor acceleration
  3. Rough idling
  4. Engine stalling
  5. Check Engine Light illuminated

How to Fix P1390

  1. Diagnostic: Use a scan tool to verify the P1390 code and inspect the timing belt and gears visually.
  2. Timing belt replacement: If the timing belt has skipped teeth, it will need to be replaced along with the tensioner and any damaged gears.
  3. Timing belt alignment: Ensure proper alignment of the new timing belt and tensioner according to the manufacturer's specifications.
  4. Engine timing adjustment: After replacing the timing belt, the engine's timing may need to be adjusted to ensure proper synchronization.
  5. Test and verify: Start the engine and test for proper operation, checking for any abnormal noises or performance issues.

Cost to Fix P1390

The cost of repairing a skipped timing belt can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle, as well as the extent of the damage. On average, the cost of replacing a timing belt, tensioner, and related components can range from $500 to $1000 or more. It's important to factor in labor costs, which can vary between $80 and $150 per hour. It's recommended to consult with a professional mechanic to get an accurate estimate for your specific vehicle.

When is the Code Detected?

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected a misalignment between the cam sensor and crank sensor.

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Code P1390 Information for Specific Makes

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P1390 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1390 (Timing Belt Skipped One Or More Teeth)?

- Common symptoms include rough idle, poor engine performance, misfires, and potential engine stalling.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P1390?

- The code may be triggered by a misaligned or worn timing belt, a faulty camshaft or crankshaft position sensor, or issues with the timing belt tensioner.

3. How serious is OBDII code P1390 (Timing Belt Skipped One Or More Teeth)?

- This code is serious as it indicates a problem with the engine timing, which can lead to further engine damage if not addressed promptly.

4. Can driving with OBDII code P1390 cause further damage to the vehicle?

- Yes, driving with this code can potentially cause damage to the engine valves and pistons due to the misalignment of the timing belt.

5. How is OBDII code P1390 diagnosed?

- The code is diagnosed using a scan tool that retrieves the code and allows for further inspection of the timing components and sensors.

6. What are some repair tips for OBDII code P1390?

- It is recommended to inspect the timing belt and related components for wear or misalignment, replace any faulty sensors, and properly align the timing belt according to the manufacturer's specifications.

7. Can I repair OBDII code P1390 at home, or is professional help needed?

- While some basic diagnosis can be done at home, repairing OBDII code P1390 often requires specialized tools and expertise, so it is recommended to seek professional help.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P1390?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the specific components that need to be replaced, but it can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars.

9. Can resetting the OBDII code P1390 temporarily solve the issue?

- Resetting the code may temporarily turn off the check engine light, but the underlying issue causing the code will still need to be addressed to prevent further damage.

10. How often should the timing belt be inspected to prevent OBDII code P1390 from occurring?

- It is recommended to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for timing belt replacement and have it inspected regularly, typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, to prevent issues like OBDII code P1390.

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