You should be able to replace the timing chain for a lot less than $2000. Even in a union shop. You are gambling everytime you run the engine that serious disaster will not overtake it as a chain that is loose enough to diagnose as loose is past the time that it should be changed. I think you need a new mechanic.

Shouldn't cost that much. Maybe $300 to $500 depending on who does the work.

And I don't know your car type. If it has a chain and it's getting slack like that it could skip a tooth and throw the timing off. Again, not knowing your car, I don't know if it's an "Interference" engine. If it is then a broken chain is the last thing you want. A broken chain means bent valves and holes in the tops of pistons. In short, ignore the problem and you could be spending $1,500 on a used engine or $2,500 on a rebuilt engine. Could be $4,000 for a NEW engine.

Can't afford it? Can't afford NOT to! I'd recommend not driving. But you will do what you will do. When disaster strikes - you have only yourself to blame.

Hope this helps.

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Ouch, that's expensive, and I can see why. As far as driving it, well, I wouldn't. But ya gotta do what ya gotta do. Save up that two grand for another car. A timing chain should go for a lot loner than what you got out of it. Then again, the Lumina is a piece of crap.

why would a simple timing chain cost 2000?

the chains dont really stretch much at all. it will wear out and eventually fail.

It will cost you a lot more for a new engine

I have a 2007 Holden Commodore ve lumina v6 3.6L 136 000kms

The timing chain is stretched and I know it'll cost around $2k but because I'm not the richest guy, it'll take me a while to gather the money. I would like to know how long I have before it gets critical like when the chain snaps. I still need the car to get around. The chain does make the noise as it gathers tension on a cold start on some days and would run fine for the rest of the day.