Does a 5.7 tundra have a timing belt or chain?

The 5.7-liter V8 powering Toyota Tundra pickups uses a timing chain rather than a belt. This chain-driven setup is designed for long life and does not require routine belt-style replacement.

Timing system in the 5.7-liter V8

Here are the key facts about how the engine’s timing system is configured and what that means for maintenance and reliability.

• It uses a timing chain rather than a timing belt to synchronize the camshafts and valves.


• The chain is paired with hydraulic tensioners and guides to control slack as the engine runs.


• Timing chains are intended to last the life of the engine, though tensioners, guides, or sprockets can wear over time.


• There is no regular mileage-based replacement interval for the chain itself; service focuses on other components such as water pumps and tensioners when needed.


• Signs of wear can include a rattling noise at startup, misfires, or performance issues related to timing irregularities.

In short, the 5.7L Tundra’s timing system is chain-driven and designed for durability, with maintenance attention directed toward related components rather than a belt replacement schedule.

About the 5.7L engine in the Tundra

The Tundra’s 5.7-liter V8 is typically marketed as the i-Force 5.7 and is part of Toyota’s modern DOHC V8 family with 32 valves and variable valve timing. The chain-driven timing system contributes to its durability and long service life, especially compared with belt-driven designs.

Maintenance considerations and how to check

Routine maintenance should focus on longevity and monitoring for signs of wear rather than replacing a belt. If you’re approaching high mileage, have a qualified technician inspect the timing chain, tensioners, guides, and related components during a major service, and replace the water pump if it’s due—since it is often driven by the same timing assembly.

• Have the chain tensioners and guides inspected for wear or noise during major service intervals.


• Pay attention to unusual rattle on startup or at cold idle, which may indicate chain tension issues.


• Address misfires or changes in engine performance promptly, as timing issues can affect reliability.

These steps help maintain timing-system reliability; the chain itself does not have a scheduled replacement interval, but supporting components may require service over time.

Summary

For the Toyota Tundra, the 5.7L V8 uses a timing chain, not a belt. This design is intended for long life, with maintenance focused on tensioners, guides, and related components during major service. Owners should stay alert to unusual noises or performance changes and have timing-system components inspected if concerns arise.

Does the 5.7 have a timing chain?

It's somewhat rare for there to be an actual issue with the timing components on the 5.7, but it does happen. Often you can hear the tensioner ratcheting on a cold start, which is considered normal. These engines have 4 chains so they are naturally ticky which is off-putting to a lot of people.

Which Toyota tundras have timing chains?

Timing Chain Kit - Compatible with 2007-2020 Toyota Tundra 5.7L V8.

How reliable is the 5.7 tundra engine?

The Toyota Tundra 5.7L V8 is generally considered very reliable, with many owners reporting high mileage and few major issues with proper maintenance. However, like any engine, it has potential problems such as leaks, the secondary air injection system (SAI), and the need for regular transmission servicing, according to Canadian Gearhead.
 
This video discusses the reliability of Toyota Tundra 5.7L engines, including their advantages and disadvantages: 59sChris DrivesYouTube · Nov 15, 2024
Positive aspects of reliability

• High mileage potential: Many owners report their 5.7L Tundras have over 300,000 miles, with some reaching 400,000 to 500,000 miles and beyond. 
• Durable engine: The 3UR-FE engine is known for being over-built and capable of handling hard use, which contributes to its longevity. 
• Strong transmission: The six-speed transmission used with the 5.7L engine is considered strong and durable, especially when serviced regularly. 
• Widespread praise: The engine is often cited by owners as a major reason for the Tundra's overall reliability. 

Potential issues to be aware of

• Secondary Air Injection (SAI): This system is a common failure point, and owners often need to repair or bypass it over the life of the truck. 
• Exhaust manifolds: As the truck ages, exhaust manifold leaks can develop, causing ticking or hissing sounds, particularly when the engine is cold. 
• Maintenance and service history: A lack of regular transmission and fluid services can lead to premature transmission failure, even in a strong drivetrain. 
• Oil and coolant leaks: While not a major issue for most, some specific problems can lead to leaks, such as cam tower or valley pan leaks. 
• Oxygen sensor failure: A failed oxygen sensor can trigger a "Check Engine" light, which is a common and relatively inexpensive fix, notes gtautomotive.com. 

You can watch this video to learn more about the 5.7L V8 engine's common problems: 1m8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Nov 21, 2024
Key takeaway for buyers

• Prioritize a solid maintenance history: A Tundra 5.7L with a history of regular service, especially for the transmission, is a much safer buy. 
• Be prepared for potential SAI repairs: The SAI system is a known weak point, so be sure to budget for a potential repair or bypass. 
• Check for leaks and other issues: Before purchasing, have a mechanic inspect the vehicle for common issues like exhaust manifold leaks or other potential fluid leaks. 
• Don't be afraid of high mileage: With the right maintenance, high-mileage Tundras can still be very reliable vehicles. 

Does the Toyota 5.7 L V8 have a timing belt or chain?

The Toyota 5.7L engine uses a timing chain, not a timing belt. Timing chains are designed to last the life of the engine, but they can wear over time, potentially leading to issues like noise or stretched chains.
 

• Durability: Timing chains are generally more durable than timing belts, which require scheduled replacement around every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. 
• Maintenance: While timing chains don't need routine replacement, they can develop problems like stretching or tensioner failure. 
• Warning signs: A stretched chain or failing tensioner might be indicated by engine noise, especially on a cold start, or loss of performance. 
• Engine design: The 5.7L is a V8 engine with multiple chains, which can contribute to a "ticky" sound that is normal for this engine. 
• Interference: The 5.7L engine is a non-interference engine, meaning that if the timing chain fails, the pistons and valves will not collide, which helps prevent severe engine damage.