Updated April 2026

Dodge and Chrysler Timing Chain Replacement Cost: 3.6 Pentastar and 5.7 Hemi

The 3.6 Pentastar V6 powers millions of Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles. The 5.7 Hemi is the workhorse V8 for Ram trucks and performance models. Here are the timing chain costs for both.

Cost by Engine

EngineTotal CostLabor
3.6L Pentastar V6$1,800 - $3,0008 - 12 hrs
5.7L Hemi V8$2,000 - $3,5009 - 13 hrs

3.6 Pentastar: Oil Consumption and Chain Wear

The 3.6 Pentastar V6, introduced in 2011, is one of the most widely used engines in the FCA/Stellantis lineup. It powers everything from the Jeep Wrangler to the Chrysler Pacifica minivan. The engine has four timing chains similar to the GM 3.6L: two primary chains and two secondary chains, with guides and tensioners for each.

The chain itself is robust, but the plastic guides can wear, particularly on vehicles with the known oil consumption issue. When oil level drops between changes, the chain and guides receive less lubrication, accelerating wear. The result is chain stretch that triggers P0016 and P0017 codes, rough idle, and eventual power loss.

Key prevention: If your Pentastar consumes oil (1 quart per 1,000 to 2,000 miles), check the oil level every two weeks and top up as needed. This single habit can add 30,000 to 50,000 miles to chain life.

3.6 Pentastar Vehicles

Chrysler 300 (2011+)

Dodge Charger V6 (2011+)

Dodge Challenger V6 (2011+)

Dodge Grand Caravan (2011-2020)

Jeep Wrangler JK/JL V6 (2012+)

Jeep Grand Cherokee V6 (2011+)

Ram 1500 V6 (2013-2020)

Chrysler Pacifica (2017+)

5.7 Hemi Vehicles

Ram 1500 (2003+)

Dodge Charger R/T (2005+)

Dodge Challenger R/T (2008+)

Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.7 (2005+)

Chrysler 300C (2005+)

Dodge Durango 5.7 (2004+)

5.7 Hemi: Robust but Expensive When It Fails

The 5.7 Hemi is a more reliable engine than the Pentastar when it comes to timing chain longevity. Most Hemis will never need a timing chain replacement. However, at very high mileage (150,000+ miles) or with poor oil maintenance, chain stretch can occur.

The cost is higher ($2,000 to $3,500) because the V8 has a more complex timing chain system and requires more labor hours (9 to 13). The Hemi also uses the MDS (Multi-Displacement System) that deactivates four cylinders under light load. MDS lifter issues are sometimes confused with timing chain noise. Make sure the diagnosis is correct before committing to a chain replacement.

Note on the 6.4L 392 Hemi: The 6.4L shares the basic architecture with the 5.7L. Timing chain costs are similar ($2,200 to $3,800) with slightly more labor due to the larger displacement and additional components.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does 3.6 Pentastar timing chain replacement cost?
The 3.6 Pentastar timing chain replacement costs $1,800 to $3,000 at an independent shop. The engine has four timing chains (two primary, two secondary) similar to the GM 3.6L layout. All four chains, tensioners, and guides should be replaced together. Labor runs 8 to 12 hours. Parts kits from Cloyes or Melling cost $250 to $450. Dealership pricing is typically $2,800 to $4,000.
Does the 5.7 Hemi have timing chain problems?
The 5.7 Hemi is generally a robust engine and timing chain issues are uncommon before 150,000 miles. When chain replacement is needed at high mileage, the cost is $2,000 to $3,500 due to the V8 complexity and the number of components involved. The Hemi uses a single primary chain with a hydraulic tensioner. The most common chain-related issue is not the chain itself but the MDS (Multi-Displacement System) lifter tick, which is a separate problem from timing chain wear.
Why does the Pentastar have oil consumption problems?
Some 3.6 Pentastar engines (particularly 2011 to 2013 model years) consume oil at a rate of 1 quart per 1,000 to 2,000 miles. This oil consumption accelerates timing chain and guide wear because the oil level drops between changes, reducing chain lubrication. Chrysler addressed the issue with revised piston rings in later production years. If your Pentastar consumes oil, check the level monthly and top up between changes. This habit alone can add years to chain life.

Cost Estimator

All vehicles and shop types

P0016/P0017 Codes

What these codes mean

GM 3.6L V6

Similar V6 chain issue

Disclaimer: This site provides general cost estimates for educational purposes. Actual repair costs vary by location, vehicle condition, and shop. Always get multiple written quotes. Not affiliated with Stellantis or any Chrysler/Dodge dealer.