What year did Lexus use timing chains?
In practice, Lexus has relied on timing chains for most of its engines since the late 1990s. There isn’t a single, universal year, but the shift toward chain-driven designs began around 1998–1999 and has continued into today’s models.
To understand this question in depth, it helps to know how timing mechanisms work, why Toyota-Lexus chose chains for most engines, and which engine families have been affected. This article outlines the broad timeline, highlights key engine families, and notes maintenance considerations for timing chains in Lexus vehicles. Readers should verify details for a specific model year in the owner's manual or service documentation.
A timeline of timing chains in Lexus engines
The transition from belt-driven to chain-driven timing in Lexus engines occurred during the late 1990s. While earlier Toyota-Lexus engines experimented with different designs, the flagship and mass-market models introduced chain-driven setups as the standard by the turn of the century. Since then, most new Lexus engines have used timing chains rather than belts, reflecting a broader industry shift toward longer-lasting, maintenance-friendly designs.
Common engine families and their timing mechanisms
Several core Lexus powerplants have used timing chains for their entire production lives or for substantial portions of them. Notable examples include a V8 and several V6 and inline-6 families that have powered flagship sedans, coupes, and SUVs since the late 1990s and early 2000s. These chain-driven designs are typically paired with features such as DOHC (dual overhead cam) configurations and, in many cases, variable valve timing systems, which benefit from the reliability and durability of chains.
Key engine families
The 1UZ-FE V8, used in generations of the LS400 and early GS models, employs a timing chain. The inline-6 2JZ-GE family (found in models like the IS and GS) uses a chain as well. The 1MZ-FE V6 family (notably in the ES300 and related models) also uses a timing chain. Modern V6 developments such as the 2GR-FE/2GR-FSE series, which power newer IS, GS, RX, and related models, continue to use timing chains. These examples illustrate the broad pattern across Lexus lineup from the late 1990s onward: chain-driven timing became the standard for mainstream Lexus engines.
Maintenance considerations for timing chains
Even though timing chains are designed for long life, they are not maintenance-free. Chains rely on tensioners, guides, and the chain itself to stay in proper sync with the camshafts. Over time, tensioners or guides can wear, and a stretched chain can affect engine timing, potentially leading to performance issues or, in rare cases, engine damage. Routine inspection of the timing chain area is typically included in major service intervals, and signs such as oil leaks near the timing chain cover, rattling noises from the engine, or changes in idle quality may warrant a professional check.
Summary
Across the Lexus lineup, timing chains have been the standard for most engines since the late 1990s, with many flagship and mainstream models adopting chain-driven designs around 1998–1999 and continuing to today. While there isn’t a single “year of transition,” the enduring pattern is clear: Lexus (and broadly Toyota) moved away from timing belts toward timing chains for durability and reduced maintenance, though responsible ownership still requires attention to chain-related components as part of regular maintenance. For any specific model-year confirmation, consult the vehicle’s owner's manual or a dealership/service bulletin.
Does a 2015 Lexus RX 350 have a timing belt or chain?
The 2015 Lexus RX 350 uses a timing chain, not a timing belt. Timing chains are designed to last much longer than timing belts, often for the life of the engine, and do not require periodic replacement as part of scheduled maintenance.
This video shows how to replace the serpentine belt, which is separate from the timing chain: 1mJim WongYouTube · Jul 8, 2019
- Timing chain: The 2015 RX 350 is equipped with a timing chain, which is a durable metal chain that synchronizes the engine's crankshaft and camshaft.
- Maintenance: Unlike a timing belt, a timing chain does not have a set replacement interval and generally does not need to be changed as part of routine service.
- When to replace: A timing chain only needs replacement if it stretches or breaks, which is rare. Signs of a potential issue can include a check engine light or excessive noise from the engine's timing cover.
Does the Lexus LS 460 have a timing belt or chain?
The Lexus LS 460 uses a timing chain, not a timing belt. The 1UR V8 engine used in LS 460 models from 2006 and onward is equipped with a timing chain, which is designed to last the life of the engine and is more durable than a timing belt.
- Timing Chain: The LS 460 uses a timing chain, which is a metal chain that synchronizes the engine's crankshaft and camshafts. It is significantly more durable than a timing belt.
- Maintenance: Unlike a timing belt, a timing chain does not have a regular replacement interval and is not a routine maintenance item.
- Symptoms of Wear: Over a very long period or high mileage, a timing chain can stretch, and this can lead to symptoms like rattling noises or a check engine light, note Parts Geek, Lexus Parts, and JustAnswer.
- Replacement: If the timing chain does need replacement, it's a major repair that includes replacing the chain, tensioners, and guides.
What year to avoid Lexus RX 350 used?
You should generally avoid the 2007, 2008, 2010, 2016, and 2017 model years of the Lexus RX 350 due to common issues like oil leaks, engine problems, and transmission issues. The 2007 and 2008 models are flagged for oil leaks and cracking dashboards, while the 2010 has known engine and rattling door problems. The 2016 and 2017 models are associated with transmission and oil leak issues.
This video discusses Lexus RX models to avoid and their issues: 1mThe Miles DrivenYouTube · Dec 18, 2024
Specific years to avoid
- 2007: Notorious for cracking dashboards and oil leaks.
- 2008: Did not see significant reliability improvements over 2007 and has reported issues with steering and oil leaks.
- 2010: Faced common engine and body integrity issues, including rattling doors.
- 2016: The first year of the fourth generation, it had issues with transmission problems and oil leaks.
- 2017: Another year to approach with caution due to transmission and oil leak problems.
Other considerations
- VVT-i oil line issue: A faulty VVT-i oil line can cause engine failure and is a problem seen in many models from 2007-2015, according to CarParts.com.
- First-year models: As a general rule, it's often best to avoid the first year of a new generation, which can have bugs that are worked out in later years.
- Reliable years: Some recommended, more reliable years include 2011–2015, 2018, and 2019.
How long do Lexus timing chains last?
150,000 to 200,000 miles
Most modern timing chains are designed to last the life of the engine. In many cases, they can go over 150,000 to 200,000 miles without issue, especially if the engine has been properly maintained.
