Mercedes Plastic Guide Rail Failure: Causes & Consequences

We are sure that, like any other Mercedes owner, you are completely clueless about the functioning of a plastic guide rail. It simply doesn't have such a relevant look that can grab someone's attention… Nonetheless, it plays a crucial role in the overall functionality of your Mercedes engine. Hence, it becomes imperative that you know about this component very well.

Mercedes Plastic Guide Rail: What Is It & What Does It Do?

Guide rail or timing chain guide rail essentially makes sure that the timing chain doesn't deviate from its path as it rotates. No matter how insignificant it may seem, it is very important from the engine's functioning point of view. For a car engine to operate smoothly and efficiently it is important that its timing chain stays on the designated path. And… plastic guide rail has a big contribution in making this possible.

If for any reason it gets damaged, it will have a direct impact on the overall efficiency of the engine. The engine will battle all sorts of performance-related issues. If nothing is done about it, there will be serious consequences. So, how can you tell if there is a problem with your Mercedes plastic guide rail, and most importantly, what can you do about it to prevent costly engine repairs? In the discussion below, we have covered it all…please read on.

Signs Your Mercedes Plastic Guide Rail Is About To Give Up

- Strange noise coming from your Mercedes engine?

- Has the check engine light on your Mercedes been flashing for some time now?

- Have you been struggling to bring the engine to life?

- Are you dealing with frequent stalling and misfiring issues?

If so, there is a good chance that the plastic guide rail of your Mercedes is worn out and needs to be replaced immediately.

Mercedes Plastic Guide Rail Failure: Possible Reasons

There are many different things that can contribute to guide rail failure in a Mercedes. After all, it is a component made entirely of plastic. Below we have put together a list of things that can result in plastic rail failure.

Reason #1- Extreme engine heat

As we have already discussed, the timing chain guide rail is made entirely of plastic. As a material, plastic has a poor reputation in terms of tolerating extreme heat. The proximity of the plastic guide rail to the engine's combustion chamber makes it more susceptible to heat damage.

Reason #2- Old age

Anything that has a physical form is bound to get damaged over time; whether it's the engine that powers your vehicle or the flimsy plastic guide rail that sets the timing chain in its designated path. Well, there is a popular saying; time doesn’t discriminate… Its effect is the same on everything that you see or feel around you.

Reason #3- Lack of maintenance

Another major cause of plastic guide rail failure in Mercedes is non-adherence to the engine service schedule. That’s right… the engine is a very complicated piece of machinery and requires proper care to run smoothly for a long time without any trouble. If you haven't been following your Mercedes' engine service schedule, you're likely to be dealing with all kinds of engine drama, including plastic guide rail failure.

Reason #4- Bad driving habits

Yup, you read that right!!! Your driving habits may contribute to the failure of the plastic guide rail in your Mercedes. Driving over road imperfections, such as bumps, potholes, etc. without attempting to slow down can lead to failure of the plastic guide rail, among other problems.

Reason #5- Engine overheating

Driving with an overheated engine can also contribute to plastic guide rail failure in your Mercedes. So, as soon as you notice that your Mercedes engine temperature gauge has reached the extreme point, do visit the nearest auto service center so that the problem can be diagnosed and taken care of.

Closing Remark

Plastic guide rail is an important part of your Mercedes engine. Basically, it makes sure that the timing chain doesn't deviate from its designated path. If it goes bad, the timing chain won't be able to keep the cam and crankshafts in sync. This will lead to a whole series of different problems and you could end up losing hundreds if not thousands of dollars trying to fix those problems.