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Which Honda engine has a timing chain?

Many Honda engines feature a timing chain rather than a timing belt. Timing chains are known for their durability and longevity compared to timing belts, which typically need to be replaced at regular intervals. The Honda engines that utilize a timing chain include several popular models across the automaker's lineup.


Honda Engines with Timing Chains


The following Honda engines are equipped with a timing chain:



  • Honda K-Series Engines (K20, K24)

  • Honda J-Series Engines (J30, J35)

  • Honda R-Series Engines (R18, R20)

  • Honda N-Series Engines (N22, N23)

  • Honda L-Series Engines (L15, L13)


These engines can be found in a variety of Honda models, including the Civic, Accord, CR-V, Pilot, Odyssey, and others. The use of a timing chain in these engines helps to ensure reliable and long-lasting performance over the life of the vehicle.


Benefits of Timing Chains


Timing chains offer several advantages over timing belts:



  • Durability: Timing chains are made of metal and are generally more durable than rubber timing belts, which can wear out over time.

  • Longevity: Timing chains can often last the lifetime of the engine without needing replacement, whereas timing belts typically need to be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles.

  • Reliability: Timing chains are less prone to slipping or breaking compared to timing belts, which can lead to engine damage if they fail.

  • Cost-Effectiveness: While the initial cost of a timing chain system may be higher, the lack of required replacement intervals can make it more cost-effective in the long run.


The use of a timing chain in Honda engines is one of the many engineering features that contribute to the brand's reputation for reliability and durability.

What year did Honda V6 go to timing chain?


From 2018 to the present, your Honda Accord will have a timing chain, but those specs vary a bit for previous model years. Here are the details: 2013-2017: V6 models have timing belts & 4-cylinder models have timing chains. 2008-2012: V6 models have timing belts & 4-cylinder models have timing chains.



Is the Honda 3.5 V6 a good engine?


Even with over 25 years to discover issues, the J35 still holds up as a very reliable V6 option that can be trusted to last hundreds of thousands of miles if taken care of properly.



Does a Honda CRV have a timing belt or chain?


Honda CR-V and Civic models are equipped with a timing chain.



What year did Honda switch to timing chains?


From 2018 to the present, your Honda Accord will have a timing chain, but those specs vary a bit for previous model years. Here are the details: 2013-2017: V6 models have timing belts & 4-cylinder models have timing chains. 2008-2012: V6 models have timing belts & 4-cylinder models have timing chains.



Does the Honda 3.5 V6 have a timing belt?


Yes it has a timing belt but that doesn't make it more or less reliable.



Is RAV4 a timing belt or chain?


ModelYearBelt / Chain / Gear
RAV41996-2000Belt
2001-2019Chain
2006-2012Chain
RAV4 EV1998-2003, 2012-2014Neither timing belt or timing chain



Which Honda engines have timing chains?


If you have a 4-cylinder model from 2003-2007, you engine has a timing chain; if you have the V6 model from those years, it's a timing belt. An Accord from 2008-2012 with a 4-cylinder engine will have a timing chain, whereas the V6 engine models have a timing belt.



Does a 2005 Honda Civic have a timing belt or chain?


Civic models from 2001 – 2005 Civic have a recommended replacement at 110,000 miles or 7 years. When your Honda Civic timing belt needs to be replaced, your Maintenance Minder will automatically alert you.



How long will a Honda CR-V timing chain last?


THe 2004 Honda CRV 2.4L engine has a Timing "Chain". There is no service interval at which the chain needs to be replaced or serviced. The chain was designed to last the life of the vehicle. The chain is replaced on a "need-to" basis, which is few and far between on these engines.



Does the 2024 Honda CRV have a timing belt or chain?


The current-model CR-V with its 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine (the L15B7) also uses a timing chain. The task of the timing chain or timing belt is exactly the same: They take drive from the engine's crankshaft to the camshaft and, in the process, keep all the moving parts in harmony.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.