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2018 Kia Stinger
2018 - 2019 Kia Stinger
Inline 4 2.0L
Compatible with more variants.
2018 - 2019 Kia Stinger
V6 3.3L
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  • Guides
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  • Kia Stinger
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  • 2018
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  • How to Replace the Timing Chain on a 2018-2019 Kia Stinger (Engine: Inline 4 2.0L)
Hyundai/Kia 2.0T and 2.4 Theta 2 Timing chain, electric cam phaser, and tensioner replacement!!

Hyundai/Kia 2.0T and 2.4 Theta 2 Timing chain, electric cam phaser, and tensioner replacement!!

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10mm
10mm
Socket
or (3/8")
12mm
12mm
Socket
or (7/16")
14mm
14mm
Socket
or (17/32")
17mm
17mm
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or (21/32")
3/8
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How to Replace the Timing Chain on a 2018-2019 Kia Stinger (Engine: Inline 4 2.0L)

Step-by-step timing chain service with tools, parts, safety tips, and torque specs

How to Replace the Timing Chain on a 2018-2019 Kia Stinger (Engine: Inline 4 2.0L)

Step-by-step timing chain service with tools, parts, safety tips, and torque specs for 2018, 2019

Orion
Orion

🔧 Timing Belt - Not Equipped

Your Stinger 2.0T does not use a timing belt. It uses a timing chain, which is a different setup and is not a routine replacement item like a belt. If you’re hearing chain noise, have a cam/crank correlation code, or suspect chain wear, the repair is a timing chain inspection or timing chain service instead.

Difficulty Level: Advanced | Estimated Time: 6-12 hours


⚠️ Safety & Precautions

  • Engine work requires the vehicle to be fully cool before starting.
  • Disconnect the negative battery cable before removing front engine covers or working near the starter/alternator wiring.
  • Keep hands clear of the crank pulley and belts if you rotate the engine by hand.
  • Support the vehicle securely on jack stands if access from below is needed.
  • Use proper engine support if mounts must be removed during chain service.

🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

  • 10mm socket
  • 12mm socket
  • 14mm socket
  • 17mm socket
  • Ratchet
  • Breaker bar
  • Torque wrench
  • Harmonic balancer puller (specialty)
  • Engine support bar (specialty)
  • Jack stands
  • Floor jack (rated 3-ton minimum)
  • Drain pan
  • Safety glasses
  • Nitrile gloves
  • Pick tool
  • Paint marker

🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

  • Timing chain kit - Qty: 1
  • Timing chain tensioner - Qty: 1
  • Timing chain guides - Qty: 1 set
  • Front engine cover gasket/seal set - Qty: 1
  • Valve cover gasket - Qty: 1
  • Crankshaft seal - Qty: 1
  • Engine oil - Qty: 1 oil change
  • Oil filter - Qty: 1
  • Coolant - Qty: 1 refill

📋 Before You Begin

  • Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
  • Let the engine cool completely.
  • Disconnect the negative battery cable.
  • Drain the engine oil and coolant if the front cover or water pump area will be opened.
  • Have the timing marks and service data ready before disassembly.

🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Disconnect power and prep the engine

  • Use a 10mm socket to disconnect the negative battery cable.
  • Remove the engine cover and intake ducting as needed with a 10mm socket and ratchet.
  • Label every connector and hose.

Step 2: Remove front accessory drive components

  • Use the correct socket set and breaker bar to remove the serpentine belt tension.
  • Remove the accessory belt and any brackets blocking the front cover.
  • If the mount blocks access, support the engine with an engine support bar (specialty).

Step 3: Remove the front engine cover

  • Use a 10mm socket and 12mm socket to remove the front cover bolts.
  • Carefully separate the cover without damaging the sealing surfaces.
  • Do not pry on the gasket surface.

Step 4: Set engine timing to top dead center

  • Use a 17mm socket and breaker bar to rotate the crankshaft by hand.
  • Align the factory timing marks on the crankshaft and camshafts exactly.
  • Mark the chain and sprockets with a paint marker before removal.

Step 5: Replace the timing chain components

  • Use a pick tool to release the tensioner if applicable.
  • Remove the chain guides, tensioner, and chain.
  • Install the new guides, chain, and tensioner in the correct orientation.
  • Make sure all timing marks line up before moving on.

Step 6: Reinstall the front cover and related seals

  • Install new seals and gaskets from the front engine cover gasket/seal set.
  • Use a torque wrench to tighten front cover bolts in stages.
  • Torque to manufacturer specification for the cover bolts and crank bolt.
  • Use a thin, even layer of sealant only where specified.

Step 7: Reassemble the front of the engine

  • Reinstall the engine mount, brackets, accessory belt, intake ducting, and covers using the correct socket set.
  • Refill engine oil and coolant as needed.
  • Reconnect the negative battery cable with a 10mm socket.

✅ After Repair

  • Start the engine and listen for abnormal chain noise.
  • Check for oil, coolant, and front cover leaks.
  • Scan for engine codes and clear any stored faults.
  • Let the engine reach operating temperature and recheck fluid levels.

💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $1,800-$3,800 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $350-$900 (parts only)

You Save: $1,450-$2,900 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 6-12 hours.


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