Does Acura use timing belt or chain?
When it comes to maintaining your Acura, understanding whether your vehicle uses a timing belt or a timing chain is crucial for proper maintenance and avoiding costly repairs. At Kevin's Autos, we’ve worked on countless Acuras over the years, and we’re here to provide clarity on this important topic.
Timing Belt vs. Timing Chain: What’s the Difference?
Before diving into Acura specifics, let’s briefly explain the difference between a timing belt and a timing chain:
- Timing Belt: Made of rubber and reinforced with materials like fiberglass or Kevlar, timing belts are quieter but require periodic replacement, typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Timing Chain: Made of metal, timing chains are more durable and often last the lifetime of the engine. However, they can be noisier and may require tensioner adjustments or replacement if they wear out.
Does Acura Use a Timing Belt or Chain?
Acura vehicles use either a timing belt or a timing chain, depending on the model and engine type. Here’s a breakdown:
- Older Acura Models: Many older Acura models, particularly those with V6 engines, use a timing belt. For example, the Acura TL and MDX models from the early 2000s are equipped with timing belts.
- Newer Acura Models: In recent years, Acura has transitioned many of its engines to timing chains. For instance, the Acura RDX and TLX with 4-cylinder engines typically use timing chains, which require less frequent maintenance.
- V6 Engines: Even in newer models, Acura’s V6 engines often still use timing belts. For example, the 2025 Acura MDX with a 3.5L V6 engine continues to rely on a timing belt.
How to Determine What Your Acura Uses
If you’re unsure whether your specific Acura model uses a timing belt or chain, here are a few steps you can take:
- Check your owner’s manual. It will specify whether your engine uses a belt or chain and provide maintenance intervals if applicable.
- Contact your local Acura dealership or trusted auto repair shop, like Kevin’s Autos, for assistance.
- Look up your vehicle’s engine specifications online using the year, make, and model.
Why It Matters
Knowing whether your Acura uses a timing belt or chain is essential for proper maintenance. Timing belts require regular replacement to prevent engine damage, while timing chains generally require less frequent attention but should still be inspected periodically for wear or tension issues.
Final Thoughts
At Kevin’s Autos, we’re here to help you keep your Acura running smoothly, whether it’s equipped with a timing belt or chain. If you’re due for a timing belt replacement or need an inspection of your timing chain, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Proper maintenance today can save you from costly repairs down the road!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are timing chains better than belts?
Which Is Better? Though it's certainly a matter of opinion that's based largely on your priorities, it's generally felt that timing chains are better than timing belts. While most timing belts are supposed to be replaced every 60,000 to 120,000 miles, many timing chains end up lasting the life of the car.
How long will Acura MDX timing belt last?
Because of this, you can expect the Acura belt replacement service to cost anywhere from $500 to even $1,000 or more. Fortunately, the recommended replacement intervals for most timing belts are around 60,000 to 100,000 miles.
How can I tell if my car has a timing belt or a timing chain?
You can also check under the bonnet – if it has a plastic cover on the front, it uses a timing belt because it runs dry and doesn't need extra protection. In contrast, if you find that it is sealed under a metal cover (to prevent leaks), then it is quite likely fitted with a timing chain.
Why does Acura still use timing belts?
Your Acura's timing belt controls its valves and pistons during operation. This reinforced, extra-strong band works seamlessly with the opening and closing of your engine's valves, ensuring that the crankshaft and camshaft are in sync.
What year did Acura start using timing chains?
If you own a Honda S2000, a 2003 or newer Honda Accord with a 4-cylinder engine, a 2006 or newer Honda Civic, A 2002 or newer Honda CRV, a Honda Element, a Honda Fit, an Acura RSX, and Acura TSX or a 2007 thru 2012 Acura RDX; then you have an engine that incorporates a timing chain instead of a timing belt.
What cars still use timing chains?
Luxury Cars
- Mercedes-Benz: Many Mercedes models, especially those with V6 and V8 engines, use timing chains.
- BMW: BMW models like the 3 Series and 5 Series and vehicles with inline-six engines often come with timing chains.
- Audi: The A4 and A6, especially with V6 engines, frequently feature timing chains.
Do timing chains last?
Unless your engine has a specific replacement interval, the commonly accepted mileage is between 80,000 and 100,000 miles. However, the timing chain isn't necessarily a maintenance item and can last the engine's life, provided you change the oil regularly and maintain the rest of the engine.
Does a 2016 Acura MDX have a timing belt or chain?
Newer models use timing belts made of polyurethane and Kevlar for long life and durability. They can go as long as 100,000 miles although it's always a good idea to change it before then.
Which Acura models have timing chains?
Acura RDX models 2007 to 2012 and 2019 to 2021 use timing chain. On the other hand, Acura RDX models 2013 to 2018 have timing belts. Timing chains are made of metal and are more expensive but they last longer than timing belts or even as long as the vehicle itself.
How long do Acura timing belts last?
seven to ten years
Under normal driving conditions, a timing belt will last for seven to ten years.
