Which Honda models have a timing chain?
Most Honda models in the current lineup use timing chains rather than belts, including the Civic, Accord, CR-V, HR-V, Pilot, Odyssey, and Ridgeline. This trend reflects Honda’s shift toward chain-driven engines in recent generations, though exact configurations can vary by year and trim. Always verify for your specific vehicle by checking the owner’s manual or the engine code.
Timing chains are used to synchronize the opening and closing of the engine’s valves with the movement of the pistons. They are typically more durable than timing belts and require less frequent replacement, though they still need periodical inspection and maintenance. The following list covers representative Honda models that currently use chain-driven engines in recent model years.
Current Honda models with timing chains
The following popular Honda models from recent years are equipped with timing-chain engines. This list reflects the brand’s mainstream lineup in the United States and similar markets, where chain-driven configurations are standard across many engines.
- Civic
- Accord
- CR-V
- HR-V
- Pilot
- Odyssey
- Ridgeline
While these models typically use timing chains, engine choices and configurations can vary by year, market, and trim. Always confirm for your specific vehicle using the VIN, engine code, or official Honda documentation.
How to confirm for your specific car
To verify whether your particular Honda uses a timing chain or belt, follow these practical steps. This can prevent assumptions based on model alone and help you plan maintenance or future repairs accurately.
- Check the owner’s manual or the official Honda service information for your exact model-year and engine code. Look for explicit language about “timing chain” or “timing belt.”
- Find the engine code on the engine itself or on a vehicle identification label in the engine bay or door jamb. Engine codes like K, J, or L-series are associated with chain-driven configurations in modern Hondas, but verify with a reliable source for your year.
- If you’re unsure from manuals or labels, contact your local Honda dealer with your VIN. A service advisor can confirm whether your engine uses a timing chain or belt.
- When in doubt about maintenance intervals, plan inspections of the timing system during routine service, especially if you’re approaching high-mileage service or unusual drivability symptoms.
In practice, most customers driving current Honda models will find timing chains as the standard configuration, with belts largely a feature of older or very specific, non-mainstream engines. Verification via official sources or a trusted technician is the best route for certainty.
Summary
For today's Honda lineup, timing chains are the prevailing choice across the main models—Civic, Accord, CR-V, HR-V, Pilot, Odyssey, and Ridgeline—reducing the likelihood of belt-driven maintenance. If you own a used example or a model outside the United States, double-check your exact engine type to avoid assumptions, since there can be regional or year-specific differences. When you’re unsure, a quick check of the owner’s manual, engine code, or a dealer’s verification will clear it up.
Which Hondas have timing chains?
Does your Honda engine have a timing belt or chain?
| Year(s) | Honda engine | Timing Belt or Chain |
|---|---|---|
| 2012–2015 | 1.5L I4 Hybrid (LEA1) | Chain |
| 2013–2017 | 2.4L I4 (K24W1/W7) | Chain |
| 2013–2020 | 3.5L V6 (J35Y1/Y2/Y6) | Belt |
| 2016–2022 | 1.5L I4 Turbo (L15B7) | Chain |
Does the Honda 2.4 L engine have a timing belt or chain?
Honda's 2.4L engines use a timing chain, not a belt, beginning around the early 2000s and continuing to the present. This timing chain is designed to last the life of the engine and does not require scheduled replacement, unlike a timing belt.
Timing chain benefits and maintenance
- Longevity: Timing chains are built to last the lifetime of the engine.
- Maintenance-free: The chain does not require regular replacement unless there are signs of wear or damage.
- Proper oil changes: To keep the chain lasting, it's crucial to follow the vehicle's recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes.
Signs of a timing chain issue
Noticeable engine performance issues, "Check Engine" light, Shaking or rough running, and Loss of vacuum (which can make the brake booster feel harder).
Does the 2025 Honda Pilot have a timing belt or chain?
The 2025 Honda Pilot has a timing belt, not a timing chain. This is consistent with the V6 engines used in Honda Pilots from 2016 to 2026, which all use a timing belt.
- Timing belt: The 2025 Pilot uses a timing belt, which requires replacement at recommended intervals to prevent engine damage.
- Replacement intervals: The timing belt should be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every 7 to 10 years, whichever comes first.
- Timing chain: A timing chain is a different component and is not used in the 2025 Pilot's V6 engine.
Does the Honda CRV have a timing belt or chain?
Honda CR-V models from 2002 to the present use a timing chain, not a belt. Older models, specifically from 1997 to 2001, used a timing belt. Timing chains are generally designed to last the life of the engine and don't require scheduled replacement, unlike timing belts which need to be replaced at regular intervals.
You can watch this video to see a timing chain replacement on a Honda CR-V: 1mFix it GarageYouTube · Apr 25, 2024
Timing chain (2002–present)
- Durability: Designed to last for the life of the engine with proper maintenance.
- Maintenance: Requires no scheduled replacement. Its health is maintained through regular oil changes.
- Symptoms of issues: If a timing chain fails, you may experience a check engine light, rattling noises on startup, or rough idling.
Timing belt (1997–2001)
- Durability: Prone to wear and tear over time and requires periodic replacement.
- Maintenance: Needs to be replaced at manufacturer-recommended intervals, typically between 60,000 and 100,000 miles.
- Symptoms of issues: A failing timing belt could break suddenly, causing severe engine damage, including bent valves and pistons.
This video explains the potential issues with timing chains and belts: 1mHoopties GarageYouTube · Jan 7, 2020
