Does the Acura TSX use a timing belt or chain?
The Acura TSX uses a timing chain, not a timing belt, to drive its camshafts.
Across its production years (2004–2014 in the U.S. market), the TSX relied on Honda’s 2.4-liter K-series engine family. This design uses a steel timing chain with tensioners and guides to synchronize the camshafts with the crankshaft. Timing chains are intended to last longer than belts, but they still require proper maintenance because wear on the chain, guides, or tensioner can affect timing. The K-series engines are interference engines, so significant wear or failure can cause valve damage if not addressed promptly.
Engine and timing-system details
The TSX’s powerplant is a 2.4L K-series engine (K24A variants in earlier years and K24Z variants later). All of these versions use a timing chain rather than a belt. There is no fixed mileage interval for replacing the chain itself; instead, maintenance focuses on the chain tensioner, guides, and overall chain condition. Because the K-series is an interference design, a severely worn or skipped chain can lead to valve-piston contact and costly damage if not corrected.
Maintenance considerations
When servicing the TSX’s timing area, technicians commonly inspect the chain, tensioner, and guides for wear. If a major timing-chain service is performed, it is typical to replace the water pump and sometimes other related components since they are accessed during timing-work. Regular oil changes with the recommended grade help keep the chain and tensioner properly lubricated, contributing to long-term reliability.
Owner guidance and signs of trouble
Typical warning signs of timing-system issues include unusual engine rattling noises from the timing cover area, especially on cold starts, or a drop in engine performance due to timing irregularities. If such symptoms appear, a professional inspection is advised to verify chain tensioner or guide wear and to rule out other engine concerns.
Summary
In short, the Acura TSX uses a timing chain for its 2.4-liter K-series engine, not a belt. This configuration is designed for longevity, but it still requires occasional inspection of the tensioner and guides and adherence to regular maintenance to prevent potential timing-related problems.
What year Acura TSX to stay away from?
Years to potentially avoid for the Acura TSX include 2004, 2005, 2006, 2009, 2010, and 2012 due to common issues like transmission problems, AC compressor failures, and higher rates of complaints compared to other years. While other years have had their share of problems, these are the ones most frequently cited as problematic.
Model years to potentially avoid
- 2004-2006: First-generation models with potential issues like AC compressor failure and power steering leaks.
- 2009: A model year with a significant number of recalls and complaints, particularly concerning steering and suspension systems.
- 2010: This year has the highest number of complaints reported, according to some sources, with a high number of recalls.
- 2012: This year is also highlighted as having issues that appear at lower mileages and result in higher repair costs.
Years with fewer reported issues
- 2007: This year is frequently mentioned as one of the best due to its low number of reported complaints.
- 2013-2014: These years are also highly rated for reliability and have fewer reported problems.
How much does it cost to replace a timing chain on a TSX?
The average cost for an Acura TSX Timing Chain Tensioner Replacement is between $636 and $764. Labor costs are estimated between $274 and $402 while parts are typically priced around $362.
Does the Acura TSX have a timing belt or chain?
Late model Acura vehicles that use a timing chain include the Acura TSX (4 cylinder models only), the Acura RSX, the Acura ILX, and the Acura RDX. All late model Acura vehicles, equipped with a V6 engine do utilize an Acura timing belt. These vehicles include the Acura RL, TL, TSX (V6 model only), MDX, and ZDX.
Is Acura a timing belt or chain?
timing belt
You'll find that many Acura vehicles come with a timing belt, which is vital to ensuring that the moving parts in your engine are in sync.
