Do Honda Passports have timing belts?
For the modern Honda Passport, the timing drive is a chain, not a belt. Some older Passport models used belt-driven engines, but the current model does not rely on a timing belt and does not require belt replacement.
Understanding the timing drive across Passport generations
The Honda Passport has evolved across two distinct eras. The contemporary Passport (introduced in 2019) shares its drivetrain with the Honda Pilot and relies on a timing chain. Earlier Passport models from the 1990s used different engines that sometimes employed timing belts. To be certain, check the specific year and engine code of your vehicle.
Current Passport engines and timing chain details
The 2019–present Honda Passport is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 i-VTEC engine (commonly associated with the J-series family). This chain-driven setup uses a timing chain with hydraulic tensioners rather than a rubber timing belt. There is no regular belt-change interval in the owner's manual for this engine; maintenance focuses on oil changes, tensioner/guide wear, and the water pump, which is often driven by the chain and may require replacement as part of comprehensive timing-chain service.
What this means for owners
Because the Passport's timing chain is designed for longevity, you typically won't schedule a belt replacement. Instead, follow Honda's maintenance schedule and listen for signs of wear that would necessitate inspection or service by a technician.
Before listing the key points, here is a concise guide to timing drives on the current Passport. This paragraph introduces the main items you’ll find in the subsequent list.
Key considerations for the current Passport
Here are the important points about timing drives on the modern Passport. Note that this list focuses on the current model year family and the typical maintenance implications of a chain-driven timing system.
- The 2019–present Honda Passport uses a timing chain rather than a timing belt on its 3.5L V6 engine.
- Timing chains require far less frequent replacement than belts, but should be inspected for wear along with the chain guides and tensioners during routine service.
- The chain also drives the water pump in many Honda V6 installations; when performing major timing-chain service, dealers often replace the water pump to prevent future failures.
- Common warning signs of timing-chain issues include unusual rattling on startup or idle, engine mis-timing symptoms, or loss of smooth operation; if you notice these, have the system inspected promptly.
- There is no scheduled belt-change interval for the modern Passport; routine maintenance focuses on engine oil, filter changes, and component wear rather than belt replacement.
Bottom line for current models: you won’t encounter a timing belt with the modern Passport—the chain is built for long service life, with maintenance centered on oil and chain-related components.
Older Passport models and timing-drive considerations
Vintage and rare variants
The original Honda Passport (1993–1998) was built on a different platform and employed different engines, some of which used timing belts. Because these models are no longer in production and vary by market, verify your exact engine code and consult the owner's manual for the correct timing-drive configuration and replacement intervals. If you own a classic Passport or are researching a used older model, confirm whether the engine uses a belt or a chain and follow the manufacturer’s specified maintenance schedule.
Summary
In short, the modern Honda Passport uses a timing chain, not a belt, and does not require a belt-change interval. If you’re considering an older Passport from the 1990s, some early engines used timing belts, so check your specific model-year and engine code. For any Passport, following the official maintenance schedule and consulting a technician for unusual noises or timing concerns will help ensure long-term reliability.
Does a Honda Passport have a timing belt or timing chain?
The Honda Passport uses a timing belt and not a timing chain. It's crucial to replace this belt according to the manufacturer's recommended service intervals, as a failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Timing belt specifics
- Function: The timing belt synchronizes the engine's crankshaft and camshaft so that the valves open and close at the correct time.
- Service life: The belt typically needs replacement around every 90,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on the model year.
- Failure symptoms: Common signs include a high-pitched squeaking or ticking noise, or visible damage to the belt like cracking or fraying.
- Replacement is critical: If the belt breaks, the engine's internal components can collide, leading to severe and expensive engine damage.
What is the most common problem with the Honda Passport?
The most common problems with the Honda Passport include infotainment system malfunctions, such as the display going blank and speakers crackling, and issues with the 9-speed automatic transmission, which can include delayed or harsh acceleration. Other frequent complaints involve body hardware issues like a rear hatch that won't open and occasional electrical problems with features like the fuel filler pipe or air bags.
Infotainment and electrical issues
- Display screen and audio: The infotainment screen may go blank, and speakers can crackle or pop.
- Fuel system: Some models have had issues with a faulty fuel filler pipe, leading to fuel leaks.
- Body and interior: Common problems include a rear hatch button that breaks, a gas smell inside the vehicle, and fading or peeling paint.
Transmission problems
- 9-speed transmission: Some owners report delayed, harsh, or erratic shifting with the 9-speed transmission, particularly in models from 2019-2022.
- Engine and related systems:
- Varnish buildup: This can cause a ticking noise from the engine.
- Oil in spark plug tubes: This can lead to misfires.
- Timing belt: Newer models have a timing belt that requires replacement, which is an expensive but necessary maintenance item to prevent engine failure.
Other potential problems
- Steering: Some 2023 models have been recalled for a risk of steering loss due to a loose ball joint.
- Brakes: Some reports mention premature brake wear and issues with the ABS light coming on.
- Vibration: Some owners have experienced vibration, particularly at highway speeds.
When to change timing belt on Honda Passport?
between 60,000 and 100,000 miles
However, the general timeline you'll want to follow is to replace your timing belt anywhere between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. It's likely something you'll only have to do once during your vehicle's entire lifespan.
How much to replace a timing belt on a Honda Passport?
The average cost for a Honda Passport Timing Belt Replacement is between $865 and $1,025. Labor costs are estimated between $308 and $452 while parts are priced between $557 and $573. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
