took my car into the shop today for a tune up, and i found out that my timing caps need to be replaced (sounds like a hole in my muffler..real poor raspy sound) would that be the reason for the sound & where is it located? because i am going to drive over to the dealership and buy the caps if its the problem, but id like to know where they are located, top, middle and bottom (so says the mechanic)

Timing caps? I don't even think I know what that is

I second that

ok then its either a lie, or the mechanic doesnt know what he's talking about, he said that the reason my exhaust sounds like a lawnmower, is because timing cap *or cover* needs to be replaced..thats why i posted here, because im not sure what it is, or if he knows what it is, and just doesnt know the real name to the part.

Ahhhh, the timing belt cover....if your belt is slapping the top of the cover just use small washers to slightly elevate the cover...thats what i did..i can't even tell they are there. i don't see how it would make your exhaust sound like a lawnmower though. More like a violent bag of popcorn

Is this a serious difference in sound? If so, I don't think it's the timing belt cover.

Elaborate as much as possible, please

ok...this sound is like a go-kart...in prospective. it sounds like it is either coming from in the area of the front left wheel well, or from under the car completly. i would like to find out what it is here before i spend $$ on letting them check it out, and then paying a wad of cash for a little piece of plastic, if you know what i mean.

I'm still trying to understand, so play along with me

I have to assume since you say it sounds like a go-kart, it's an engine-related sound. I seriously doubt this is your timing belt cover causing this. My belt slapped the cover for a while - I took it off - but the sound it made was negligable(sp?) to anyone but myself.

Sound like it's coming from an area forward of the firewall? Can you "home in" on it with the hood up and the engine running? Maybe you have a leaking exhaust (catalytic converter, cracked/loose exhaust manifold, etc.).

I didn't check to see if you list any mods, but if you're running an aftermarket intake, the filter may be loosely mounted or damaged.

Also, timing itself can cause differences in engine tone. I have an exhaust cam out of time right now, and I can hear a difference in the engine for sure.

Aside from noise, any other side effects? Loss of power, stumbling, etc.?