What brands use timing chains?

Most mainstream automakers rely on timing chains for at least part of their gasoline engine lineup; brands like Toyota (including Lexus), Nissan, Mazda, Subaru, Hyundai, Kia, Ford, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volkswagen, Volvo, Porsche and General Motors cover the majority of their modern engines with chain-driven timing. Some models and markets still use timing belts, especially in smaller or budget-oriented variants, so verify the exact engine family for a given vehicle.

Timing chains generally last longer and require less frequent replacement than belts, but the choice is made at the engine-family level and can vary by generation and market. This article surveys current practice among major brands and emphasizes checking the specific engine code to understand maintenance needs.

Brands that predominantly use timing chains across their current gasoline engines

The following brands are widely recognized for using timing chains in the vast majority of their contemporary gasoline engines. Note that exceptions exist within individual engine families or markets.

• Toyota and Lexus


• Nissan


• Mazda


• Subaru


• Hyundai and Kia


• Ford


• BMW


• Mercedes-Benz


• Audi


• Volkswagen


• Volvo


• Porsche


• General Motors (Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac)

Engine families and generations vary, and some entries may still include occasional belt-driven variants. Always confirm with the specific engine code or manufacturer documentation.

Notes and practical guidance

Engine family, year, and market matter

Whether a given engine uses a timing chain or belt is determined by the engine family and generation, not by the brand alone. For example, a modern four-cylinder family from a major brand may use a chain, while an older or budget-oriented variant in the same brand might still use a belt. Always check the exact engine code when assessing timing components.

Maintenance considerations for timing chains

Timing chains typically require less frequent replacement than belts, but chains can stretch or wear if maintenance items such as tensioners or guides fail. If you’re buying used, listen for chain-tensioner noises and review service history for potential chain work at high mileage.

Summary

In today's automotive landscape, timing chains are common across many major brands, especially in mainstream manufacturers. Toyota, Nissan, Mazda, Subaru, Hyundai, Kia, Ford, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, VW, Volvo, Porsche, and GM collectively illustrate the trend toward chain-driven timing. However, exact configurations vary by engine family, model year, and market, so always confirm the timing system for the specific vehicle you’re considering.

Which Nissan cars have timing chains?

When it comes to the 2025 Nissan lineup, models like the Nissan Rogue and Nissan Kicks primarily use timing chains. Nissan has shifted towards timing chains in many of their newer engines because they are more durable and often need less maintenance.

Do modern cars use timing chains?

Early vehicles used chains or gears to manage the timing and belts only became common in consumer vehicles during the 1960s. In the 1990s, automakers moved back to timing chains and modern cars tend to have a timing chain.

What is the best brand of timing chain?

The best timing chain brands are generally considered to be Cloyes and Melling, with some mechanics also recommending S.A. Gear and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts. When choosing a brand, consider the completeness of the kit, the quality of materials used, and the application for your specific vehicle. 
Recommended brands

• Cloyes: A widely recommended brand that provides comprehensive kits with quality components, including heat-treated steel for durability. They have a long history in the market and are used by some professional mechanics as an aftermarket alternative to OEM parts, say Facebook users. 
• Melling: Another highly-regarded brand, often mentioned alongside Cloyes. Melling is frequently praised for its quality components and is sometimes favored for specific parts like oil pumps, notes Reddit users. 
• S.A. Gear: This brand is also noted for producing high-quality products, with some mechanics preferring their chains for their strength and construction, as seen on YouTube. 
• OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): If available, OEM parts like Ford's Motorcraft are always a reliable choice, especially for those who want to ensure perfect compatibility, though they may be more expensive. 

What to consider when buying

• Kit completeness: Ensure the kit includes all necessary components for the job, such as the chain, sprockets, guides, and tensioners. 
• Material quality: Look for kits that use durable materials like heat-treated steel for components that are subject to high stress. 
• Engine application: Some engine designs have known weaknesses, such as plastic chain guides that can fail. It is often recommended to replace these with a more durable metal alternative if available, sometimes from a different brand, say Facebook users. 
• Warranty: A good warranty can provide peace of mind regarding the longevity of the product. 

Does Toyota use timing belts or chains?

Whether a Toyota has a timing belt or chain depends on the model, year, and engine, with most newer Toyotas using a durable timing chain, while many older models used a timing belt. It is crucial to check your specific vehicle's specifications to determine which one it has, as a timing belt needs to be replaced at set intervals, whereas a chain is generally designed to last much longer. 
Timing belt

• What it is: A reinforced rubber belt. 
• Common in: Older Toyota models, such as some V6 and 4-cylinder engines from the 1990s and early 2000s. 
• Maintenance: Must be replaced at specific mileage or time intervals to prevent catastrophic engine damage if it breaks. 

Timing chain

• What it is: A metal, bicycle-like chain. 
• Common in: Most modern Toyota engines, including many 4-cylinder and V6 models, and the Prius line. 
• Maintenance: Generally lasts the life of the engine and does not have a set replacement interval like a belt. However, it can eventually stretch or wear out, especially with poor oil maintenance, and may need replacement at very high mileage. 

How to find out which one your car has

• Check your owner's manual: This is the most reliable source for your vehicle's specifications. 
• Use an online lookup tool: Many online resources allow you to input your specific vehicle's details (make, model, year, engine) to find out which timing system it uses. You can often find comprehensive lists on automotive forums or support websites, says this article from MotorBiscuit and Toyota's official support site. 
• Look under the hood: The timing chain is typically located under a metal cover, while the timing belt is in a plastic or rubber cover. 
• Consult a mechanic: A professional can quickly identify the timing system on your engine.