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Chery Tiggo 8 common problems: what to check before you buy

Credov's researched list of the 4 faults the Chery Tiggo 8 is known for, 2 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.

Known problems on the Chery Tiggo 8

2.0T DCT timing chain stretch

Costly if missed

SQRF4J20 · petrol · Engine

What to look for: With the bonnet up, listen at idle and 1,400-1,600 rpm warm for an engine rattle or knock.

Why it matters: A stretched timing chain that is ignored can progress to rough running and an engine rebuild, which is a major cost; it is more likely on a car with a history of overdue or poor-quality oil.

Sources: 1 2 3

1.6T DCT timing chain noise

Costly if missed

SQRF4J16 · petrol · Engine

What to look for: On a cold start and warm idle, listen at the front of the engine for a rattle or clatter.

Why it matters: A stretched timing chain left unaddressed leads to rough running and risks engine damage; a car already making this noise should be budgeted for a chain replacement.

Sources: 1 2

Steering rack/tie-rod knock

Minor

petrol · Suspension and steering

What to look for: Over speed bumps and rough seal, listen and feel for a knock through the steering wheel or footwell.

Why it matters: A knocking rack or worn tie-rod is a wear item that gets worse over time; on at least one car it returned twice even after warranty repairs, so a buyer should expect to budget for it rather than assume one repair has fixed it for good.

Sources: 1 2 3

2.0T oil consumption

Minor

SQRF4J20 · petrol · Engine

What to look for: Pull the dipstick and check the oil level is not near minimum soon after a service.

Why it matters: Oil consumption beyond the normal range for this engine, left unmonitored, risks running the engine low on oil, which accelerates timing chain and tensioner wear and can lead to an engine replacement.

Sources: 1 2 3

Got a question about a Chery Tiggo 8? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.

Also check on every car

On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.

Other Chery models

Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.