What belt is used in the Honda drivetrain?
In modern Honda drivetrains, there isn’t a single belt that covers every model. Most engines now rely on a timing chain to synchronize the camshaft and crankshaft, while the belt you may hear about in maintenance discussions is the serpentine (accessory) belt that powers components such as the alternator and air conditioning. Some older Honda engines used timing belts instead.
Understanding belt types in Honda engines
Here is a breakdown of the main belt categories you’ll encounter in Honda vehicles and what they do.
Timing chain
A timing chain is a metal chain inside the engine that keeps the camshaft(s) and crankshaft synchronized. In most current Honda engines, the timing chain is designed to last the life of the engine, with maintenance focused on measuring tensioners and guides and listening for unusual noise.
Timing belt
A timing belt is a reinforced rubber belt that also synchronizes camshafts and the crank, but it is more prone to wear and requires periodic replacement. Honda used timing belts on several older engines; if your engine is belt-driven, replacement is essential at the recommended interval to avoid catastrophic engine damage.
Serpentine belt (accessory belt)
The serpentine belt, or accessory belt, drives the alternator, power steering pump, water pump (in some designs), A/C compressor, and other belt-driven accessories. It is a separate belt from the timing system and is replaced according to wear and the manufacturer’s schedule.
Maintenance and replacement guidance
Regular maintenance decisions depend on your specific Honda model and engine family. The following guidelines summarize what to expect and what to watch for.
- Timing belt variants: If your engine uses a timing belt, plan for replacement at the manufacturer's recommended interval (often in the 60,000–100,000 mile range, depending on model). When replacing a timing belt, many technicians also replace the water pump and tensioners to avoid another service visit.
- Timing chain variants: For engines with a timing chain, overall maintenance tends to be less frequent, but chain guides and tensioners can wear over time and may require inspection or service if you hear rattling or experience performance issues.
- Serpentine/accessory belt: Replace the serpentine belt at the recommended interval or when signs of wear appear (cracking, fraying, glazing, or squealing). The belt drives multiple accessories and its failure can disable essential systems.
- Signs of belt problems: Squealing noises, visible cracks, fraying edges, oil contamination (which can degrade rubber), power steering loss, or battery/charging problems can indicate belt or tensioner failure.
- OEM parts and service: Use Honda-approved or OEM belts and have the service performed by qualified technicians who can verify belt type and fit for your exact engine.
Following these guidelines helps prevent belt-driven failures and keeps the Honda drivetrain running smoothly.
Model-specific notes
Today’s Honda lineup largely relies on timing chains for most engines, which reduces the frequency of major belt replacements. However, some older or specialized engines may still use timing belts. Always consult your owner’s manual or a certified Honda technician to confirm the exact belt type and service intervals for your vehicle.
Summary
In short, there isn’t a single “Honda belt” that covers every model. Most current Hondas use a timing chain to synchronize the engine’s timing, while the accessory or serpentine belt drives auxiliary components. Timing belts appear primarily on older engines and require periodic replacement. For accurate maintenance, always refer to the service schedule in your owner’s manual and use OEM parts when servicing belts.
Are Honda CVTs belt driven?
A CVT mechanism consists of two pulleys—a drive (input) pulley and a driven (output) pulley—and a metal belt. The two pulleys are hydraulically controlled according to driving parameters, such as accelerator position and vehicle speed, to adjust the widths of the grooves where the belt sits.
Is the serpentine belt part of the drivetrain?
The serpentine belt, also known as the drive belt or multi-rib belt, is a single, continuous belt used to drive multiple accessory devices attached to the vehicle's engine. These can include the alternator, power steering pump, water pump, air conditioning compressor as well as options like superchargers.
Does Honda use a timing belt or chain?
Honda uses both timing belts and chains depending on the engine, with most modern 4-cylinder engines using a timing chain, while most V6 engines continue to use a timing belt. Modern four-cylinder engines (like those in the Civic and CR-V) switched to timing chains around 2006.
Timing chain
- What it is: A metal chain that is designed to last the lifetime of the engine.
- Most common in: Four-cylinder engines, with most models making the switch by 2006.
- Maintenance: Requires no regular replacement but needs to be kept well-lubricated through regular oil changes.
Timing belt
- What it is: A rubber belt that synchronizes the crankshaft and camshaft.
- Most common in: V6 engines, which have continued to use them through 2024.
- Maintenance: Needs to be replaced periodically, typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles.
How to tell which one your car has
- For older models: Check your owner's manual or look at model-specific information. For example, 1995-2005 Civics had timing belts, while 2006 and newer models have chains.
- For V6 engines: Most Honda V6 engines from 1997-2024 have a timing belt, such as those in the Accord, Pilot, Odyssey, and Ridgeline.
- For 4-cylinder engines: Most modern 4-cylinder Honda engines have a timing chain.
What belt is used in a Honda drivetrain?
serpentine belt
As the name suggests, a serpentine belt is one long, snaking belt that keeps various engine components like your power steering pump, air conditioning compressor, alternator and water pump running as efficiently as they should.
