Do you have to change the timing belt on a Toyota Camry?

Most recent Camry engines use a timing chain, so there is no regular timing-belt replacement. If you own an older Camry with a timing belt, it must be replaced at the interval specified by Toyota, typically around 60,000–100,000 miles, to prevent potential engine damage.

In this article, we break down which Camry generations used belts versus chains, how to identify your specific setup, the maintenance implications, and what signs to watch for that could indicate wear or failure.

Understanding whether your Camry uses a belt or a chain

Before listing the general guidance, here is a quick framework to help you determine your vehicle’s timing system.

• Modern Camrys (from roughly the late 2000s to today) predominantly use a timing chain in both four-cylinder and V6 engines.


• Some older Camry models, particularly from the late 1990s to early 2000s in certain markets, used a timing belt in one or more engines; those belts require scheduled replacement.


• To be certain for your car, check the owner's manual, look for a timing belt/chain note under the maintenance section, or ask a Toyota service center with your VIN to identify the exact engine and its timing system.

In short, whether you need to replace a belt depends on your specific engine; most modern Camrys do not require belt replacements.

Maintenance intervals and signs of wear

Before listing the maintenance expectations, note that the following guidance covers both belt-backed and chain-backed engines and the typical symptoms drivers should monitor.

• If your Camry has a timing belt: replace at the interval recommended in the manual or by Toyota for that engine, typically around 60,000–100,000 miles, or 5–7 years, whichever comes first.


• If your Camry uses a timing chain: there is usually no fixed replacement interval; chains are designed to last the engine life, but tensioners, guides, and related components can wear and may need service on high-mileage or worn engines.


• Warning signs include unusual engine noises (such as a rattling sound at startup or idle), misfires, reduced performance, or a check-engine light; if you hear a metallic rattle from the front of the engine, have it inspected promptly to avoid potential damage.

These guidelines help you plan maintenance, but always follow the specific schedule for your year and engine as published by Toyota.

How to identify your exact engine and get precise guidance

To be certain, use your VIN and engine code to verify the timing system and the exact maintenance schedule for your Camry.

Step-by-step verification

Follow these steps to confirm whether your Camry has a belt or chain and the correct replacement interval.

• Find the engine code in the engine bay sticker, owner's manual, or service literature (common Camry codes include 3S-FE, 1MZ-FE, 2AZ-FE, 2AR-FE, etc.—exact codes vary by year and market).


• Check your maintenance booklet for the timing belt/chain entry and the recommended replacement mileage or age.


• Provide your VIN to a Toyota dealer or service advisor; they can pull the exact factory maintenance schedule for your vehicle.

With the correct engine identification, you’ll know whether you need a belt replacement and when to schedule it.

Summary

In summary, you generally do not have to change a timing belt on a modern Toyota Camry because most engines use a timing chain. If you own an older Camry with a timing belt, follow Toyota’s recommended replacement interval to avoid catastrophic engine damage. Always verify your exact engine and schedule with the owner's manual or a dealer using your VIN.

What year of Toyota Camry to stay away from?

The Toyota Camry years to avoid are primarily 2007–2011, due to excessive oil consumption issues in the 4-cylinder engine, and 2002, which had numerous complaints. Other years with significant reported issues include 2008 and 2009, as well as 2012-2014 for potential transmission problems and 2018-2019 for specific 8-speed automatic transmission and fuel system problems.
 
This video discusses the best and worst Toyota Camry years: 54scar PROblemsYouTube · May 22, 2025
2007–2011 

• 4-cylinder engine: This generation is known for the 2AZ-FE engine, which has low-tension piston rings that can lead to excessive oil burning, especially at higher mileage. 
• Melting dashboards: These models are also prone to dashboards that melt and become sticky in hot weather. 
• Airbag system: Some 2010-2011 models had airbag failures, including unexpected deployment or failure to deploy in an accident. 

Other problematic years

• 2002: This model year received a high number of complaints. 
• 2008 and 2009: These years had a high number of complaints, with 2009 specifically mentioned for oil consumption issues in the 4-cylinder engine. 
• 2012–2014: These models are associated with transmission torque converter issues. 
• 2018–2019: These models may experience issues with the 8-speed automatic transmission's shifting and problems with the fuel system, including defective fuel pumps. 

This video explains how to check for problems in a 2007 Toyota Camry: 18sYourCarAngelYouTube · Apr 14, 2024

How much does it cost to replace a timing belt on a Toyota Camry?

The average cost for a Toyota Camry timing belt replacement ranges from $400 to over $1,000, depending on the vehicle's model year, the shop's labor rates, and the specific parts included in the service. The wide price range is primarily due to the significant labor involved in disassembling engine parts to access the belt. 
Cost breakdown and factors

• Parts: A timing belt kit, which typically includes the belt, tensioners, and idler pulleys, can cost between $100 and $350. Some services also recommend replacing the water pump at the same time, which adds to the parts cost. 
• Labor: This is the most significant cost factor due to the complex nature of the job. 
  • Independent shops: Generally have lower labor rates and may use aftermarket parts. 
  • Dealerships: Often have higher labor rates but use manufacturer-recommended parts and have specialized training. 
• Vehicle age: Older models may have different labor requirements or parts availability, which can influence the final price. 
• Additional parts: Replacing other components like the water pump, tensioners, or idler pulleys when the timing belt is replaced is common and recommended to prevent future issues. 

How to get a quote

• Shop around: Get quotes from several different shops, including both independent mechanics and dealerships, to compare prices and services. 
• Ask about the parts: Inquire about the specific parts being used, such as whether a timing belt kit is included and if the water pump will be replaced. 
• Be prepared for variations: Prices can vary based on your location, the specific model and year of your Camry, and the shop you choose.

Do Toyota Camrys have a timing belt or chain?

The Toyota Camry uses a timing belt for models from 1990–2001 (4-cylinder) and 1990–2006 (V6) and a timing chain for 4-cylinder models from 2002–present and V6 models from 2007–present. Timing chains generally last the life of the engine, while timing belts require replacement at specific mileage intervals.
 
You can watch this video to learn how to replace a timing belt in older Toyota Camry models: 45sDrShockYouTube · Mar 8, 2024
Timing belt

• Years: 1990–2001 (4-cylinder) and 1990–2006 (V6). 
• Replacement: Belts need replacement every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on the model and engine. 
• Maintenance: A broken timing belt can cause significant engine damage, so it's crucial to replace it at the recommended interval. 

Timing chain

• Years: 2002–present (4-cylinder) and 2007–present (V6). 
• Replacement: Timing chains are designed to last the life of the engine and do not have a scheduled replacement interval. 
• Maintenance: They are sealed in the engine and lubricated by oil. They only need attention if they start to make noise, which could indicate an issue with the chain tensioner. 

When should you change the timing belt on a Toyota Camry?

The timing belt replacement interval for a Toyota Camry depends on the model year and engine, with many models from 1990-2001 having a 60,000 to 90,000-mile interval. Newer models (4-cylinder from 2002 on and V6s from 1990 on) use a timing chain instead of a belt, which generally does not require replacement. Always consult your owner's manual for the specific interval for your vehicle, as some older models may have different recommendations.
 
You can watch this video to learn about the average lifespan of a timing belt: 35sCarAraCYouTube · Dec 28, 2023
Timing belt replacement intervals by model type

• Older models (1990–2001): 60,000 to 90,000 miles is a common replacement interval. Some specific engines, like the 2.2L 5S-FE, have a 90,000-mile/72-month recommendation. 
• Newer models (2002 and later): Most 4-cylinder and many V6 models use a timing chain, which does not have a regular replacement interval like a belt. 

Important considerations

• Consult your owner's manual: This is the most reliable source for your specific vehicle's maintenance schedule. 
• Check for age-related deterioration: Even with low mileage, belts can degrade over time from heat and other factors. Some sources recommend replacement based on time (e.g., every 7 to 10 years) in addition to mileage. 
• Consider replacing related components: If your Camry has a timing belt, it's often recommended to replace the water pump and tensioner at the same time, as they are driven by the belt and failure of these parts can also cause engine damage.