When should the timing belt be changed on a Prado?
In general, whether a Toyota Land Cruiser Prado needs a timing belt change depends on the engine. Most Prados since late model years use a timing chain and do not require a belt replacement. Some older or market-specific engines use a timing belt, which typically should be replaced around 90,000–120,000 miles (145,000–195,000 kilometers) or every 5–7 years, whichever comes first. Always verify your exact engine code and consult the owner’s manual or a dealer for the correct interval.
Does your Prado have a timing belt or a timing chain?
The drive for the timing mechanism varies by engine type. The following overview highlights common Prado engines and whether they use a belt or chain.
- 2.7L petrol (2TR-FE): timing chain
- 4.0L petrol (1GR-FE): timing chain
- 3.0L diesel (1KD-FTV, D-4D variants): timing chain
- Older 3.0L diesel (1KZ-TE): timing belt
Engine configurations can vary by market and model year, so a quick way to be sure is to check the engine code on the block or consult your owner’s manual or a Toyota dealer. If your Prado has a belt, plan for a replacement at the recommended interval to avoid potential damage from belt failure.
Replacement intervals and maintenance guidance
Because belt-driven engines require periodic replacement, while chain-driven engines do not, it helps to separate guidance by drive type. Always rely on the official interval listed in your specific vehicle’s service manual.
- Belts (for engines like the older 1KZ-TE): typical replacement around 90,000–120,000 miles (145,000–195,000 km) or about 5–7 years, whichever comes first. If the vehicle operates in harsh conditions or with high mileage, consider inspecting earlier.
- Chains (for most modern Prado engines such as 2TR-FE, 1GR-FE, 1KD-FTV): no routine replacement is normally required. Inspect the timing chain, tensioner, and guides at major services and replace only if wear, slack, or noise is detected.
Because a belt failure can cause severe engine damage in interference engines, staying within the recommended interval and having belt-driven engines inspected at service intervals is essential. Conversely, chain-driven engines benefit from periodic inspections of the tensioner and guides but do not have a mandated belt-change interval.
Signs you may be approaching or past the interval
Be alert for indicators that a timing belt or related components may need attention before the scheduled interval. The following signs can suggest belt wear or tensioner issues:
- Squealing, chirping, or metallic noises from the front of the engine
- Loss of engine power or misfires
- Oil leaks or coolant leaks near the belt cover area
- Visible cracks, fraying, or missing teeth on a belt (if you can safely inspect it)
- Engine won’t start or runs roughly after a long service interval
If you notice any of these signs, consult a qualified technician promptly to avoid potential engine damage.
What to do if you’re approaching the interval
Follow these practical steps to stay ahead of timing-drive maintenance for your Prado.
- Identify your exact engine code (for example, 2TR-FE, 1GR-FE, 1KD-FTV, or 1KZ-TE) and locate the recommended interval in the owner’s manual.
- Confirm whether your Prado has a belt or a chain drive by checking the engine code and service documentation.
- If it’s belt-driven, schedule replacement with a trusted technician before the interval lapses to prevent belt failure.
- During service, have the tensioner, idlers, and overall belt condition inspected even if you’re within the belt-change window.
Proactive planning can save you from unexpected breakdowns and expensive repairs, especially on older or heavily used Prados.
Summary
The timing belt question for a Prado depends on the engine. Most modern Prados use a timing chain and do not require belt changes, while older or market-specific engines may use a belt with a recommended replacement window around 90,000–120,000 miles (145,000–195,000 km) or about 5–7 years. Always verify your engine code and follow the official maintenance schedule. If you own a belt-driven Prado, plan ahead and perform the replacement within the recommended interval to avoid potential engine damage. For chain-driven engines, routine belt replacement is not necessary, but regular inspection of the chain tensioner and guides is advisable.
Does the Prado have a timing belt or chain?
The 2020 model of the Toyota Landcruiser Prado, however, does not use a timing belt, but rather is equipped with a timing chain. This is an important distinction since timing chains generally require less maintenance compared to timing belts.
At what mileage should a Toyota timing belt be replaced?
between 60k-90k miles
In most cases, the average timing belt will last anywhere between 60k-90k miles. If your vehicle has over 90,000 miles and has not had the timing belt replaced, you may want to schedule an inspection to ensure safe operation of your vehicle.
How much does it cost to replace a timing belt on a Toyota Prado 150?
The typical cost for replacing a timing belt begins at approximately $550 and may rise to more than $1300 if additional engine components need to be removed for access to the timing belt.
When should the timing belt be changed on a Toyota Prado?
A timing belt can last anywhere between 40-100k km's.
