Which Hondas have timing chains?
When it comes to maintaining your Honda, understanding whether your vehicle uses a timing chain or a timing belt is crucial. Timing chains and belts are essential components of your engine's operation, ensuring that the camshaft and crankshaft are synchronized. While timing belts require periodic replacement, timing chains are designed to last the lifetime of the engine with proper maintenance. In this article, we’ll explore which Honda models are equipped with timing chains.
What Is the Difference Between a Timing Chain and a Timing Belt?
Before diving into specific Honda models, it’s important to understand the difference between a timing chain and a timing belt:
- Timing Chain: Made of metal, timing chains are durable and typically last the lifetime of the engine. They require less frequent maintenance but still need proper lubrication to avoid wear.
- Timing Belt: Made of rubber, timing belts are quieter but require replacement at regular intervals, usually between 60,000 and 100,000 miles, depending on the vehicle.
Knowing which type your Honda uses can help you plan for maintenance and avoid costly engine damage.
Honda Models with Timing Chains
Honda has transitioned many of its models to timing chains over the years, particularly in newer vehicles. Below is a list of popular Honda models and their timing mechanisms:
- Honda Accord: Most Honda Accord models from 2003 onward are equipped with timing chains, especially those with 4-cylinder engines. However, older V6 models may still use timing belts.
- Honda Civic: Starting in 2006, most Honda Civics, particularly those with 4-cylinder engines, feature timing chains. Older models, such as the 2005 Civic, may still use timing belts.
- Honda CR-V: From 2002 onward, the Honda CR-V has been equipped with timing chains in its 4-cylinder engines.
- Honda Fit: All Honda Fit models, regardless of year, are equipped with timing chains.
- Honda Pilot: The Honda Pilot uses timing belts in its V6 engines, even in newer models. This is an exception to Honda’s general trend toward timing chains.
- Honda HR-V: The Honda HR-V, introduced in 2016, is equipped with a timing chain.
- Honda Odyssey: Like the Pilot, the Honda Odyssey uses a timing belt in its V6 engines.
How to Determine If Your Honda Has a Timing Chain
If you’re unsure whether your specific Honda model has a timing chain or belt, here are a few steps you can take:
- Check your owner’s manual. The manual will specify the type of timing mechanism and any recommended maintenance intervals.
- Consult a trusted mechanic. A professional can quickly identify whether your vehicle has a timing chain or belt.
- Look up your vehicle’s specifications online. Many automotive websites and forums provide detailed information about Honda models and their timing mechanisms.
Why It Matters
Understanding whether your Honda has a timing chain or belt is essential for proper maintenance. While timing chains are more durable, they still require regular oil changes to ensure proper lubrication and prevent premature wear. On the other hand, timing belts must be replaced at the manufacturer-recommended intervals to avoid catastrophic engine damage.
At Kevin’s Autos, we specialize in Honda maintenance and repair. If you’re unsure about your vehicle’s timing mechanism or need assistance with maintenance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Keeping your Honda in top shape is our priority!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will Honda timing chain last?
between 80,000 and 120,000 miles
The timing chain normally needs to be replaced between 80,000 and 120,000 miles.
What year did Honda start using CVT in CR-V?
2015
2015: CR-V received enhanced styling, a new more powerful drivetrain, increased safety features and a new premium Touring trim. CR-V featured a new direct-injected Earth Dreams Technology™ i-VTEC® engine and its first continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Which Honda CRV has a timing chain?
After that (from 2001 onwards) Honda fitted the K Series engine to CRVs, and this engine used a timing chain which should be good for the life of the engine. The R20A four-cylinder engine used from late 2012 also uses a timing chain, as does the turbo-diesel 2.2-litre engine from the same era.
How long will a Honda timing chain last?
When Should It be Replaced? Unless your engine has a specific replacement interval, the commonly accepted mileage is between 80,000 and 100,000 miles. However, the timing chain isn't necessarily a maintenance item and can last the engine's life, provided you change the oil regularly and maintain the rest of the engine.
What is better, a timing chain or a timing belt?
Timing belts are quieter and less expensive to replace but require regular maintenance and can fail if neglected. Timing chains are more durable and longer-lasting but can be noisier and costlier to replace.
What year did Honda switch to timing chain?
How Do I Know When To Change My Honda Civic Timing Belt?
| Civic Year Model | Engine | Timing Belt/Chain |
|---|---|---|
| 1995 - 2005 | ALL | Timing Belt |
| 2006 - 2020 | ALL | Timing Chain |
Is a timing chain better than a timing belt?
A quieter engine is often more appealing to buyers, so the timing belt is installed to ensure a smoother sound. The longer lifespan of a timing chain is why they are chosen over timing belts – they very rarely break, but any problems that do arise are easy to catch before they reach the point of no return.
How long will a Honda CR-V timing chain last?
there is no maintenance recommendation to replace it as it is designed to last the live of the engine. The only time it needs to be replaced is if the timing chain guide or tensioner fail and cause the chain to stretch.
Why does Honda use timing belts instead of chains?
The setup used in most Honda models, the timing belt was introduced in the mid-1960s as a much quieter alternative to a timing chain. Belts also use tension pulleys that aren't dependent on engine oil levels to stay in place.
Which Honda uses 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.
