Which Toyota models have timing chains?
Many Toyota models feature timing chains instead of timing belts. Timing chains are generally more durable and longer-lasting than timing belts, requiring less frequent replacement. Some of the Toyota models known to have timing chains include the Camry, Corolla, RAV4, Tacoma, and Tundra.
What is a Timing Chain?
A timing chain is a metal chain that connects the crankshaft to the camshaft(s) in an internal combustion engine. Its purpose is to ensure the proper timing of the opening and closing of the engine's valves, which is critical for efficient operation. Timing chains are designed to last the lifetime of the engine, unlike timing belts which typically need replacement every 60,000 to 100,000 miles.
Toyota Models with Timing Chains
- Toyota Camry - The Camry has used timing chains since the 1990s. This includes the popular Camry models from the 2000s and 2010s.
- Toyota Corolla - The Corolla has had timing chains in many of its recent model years, including the 2010s and 2020s versions.
- Toyota RAV4 - The RAV4 compact SUV has utilized timing chains in its engines since the 1990s and continues to do so in current models.
- Toyota Tacoma - The Tacoma pickup truck has had timing chains in its engines for many generations, including the current model.
- Toyota Tundra - The full-size Tundra pickup also features timing chains in its V6 and V8 engine options.
By using timing chains instead of timing belts, Toyota has been able to provide its customers with more durable and low-maintenance engines across many of its popular vehicle models.
What year did the Toyota Camry go to timing chain?
| Model | Year | Belt / Chain / Gear |
|---|---|---|
| Camry | 1990-2001 | Belt |
| 2002-2020 | Chain | |
| 1990-2006 | Belt | |
| 2007-2020 | Chain |
What car models have timing chains?
Luxury Cars
- Mercedes-Benz: Many Mercedes models, especially those with V6 and V8 engines, use timing chains.
- BMW: BMW models like the 3 Series and 5 Series and vehicles with inline-six engines often come with timing chains.
- Audi: The A4 and A6, especially with V6 engines, frequently feature timing chains.
What new Toyotas have a timing chain?
| Model | Year | Belt / Chain / Gear |
|---|---|---|
| C-HR | 2018-2020 | Chain |
| Corolla | 1990-1997 | Belt |
| 1998-2020 | Chain | |
| Corolla Hybrid | 2020 | Chain |
What year was the bad Toyota Camry?
On the other hand, it's best to avoid the 2007, 2008, and 2009 gasoline models, which have been known to suffer from excessive oil consumption and other engine-related issues.
How long does a Toyota Camry timing chain last?
If your vehicle is equipped with a timing chain rather than a timing belt, there is no prescribed replacement interval.
When did Honda Accord get 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.
Are timing chains better than belts on Toyota?
Timing chain replacement
The chains do not have a replacement interval specified by the manufacturer, but they often have to be replaced quite early because the weak chain has elongated (sometimes already between 60.000 and 80.000 km). In contrast, the timing belt has proven to be much more durable.
Do all Toyotas use timing chains?
Some Toyota engines have timing belts, some have timing chains. It pays to know what your engine has. Belts need to be replaced at normal intervals (usually every 90-100k on late model cars) or you will have hell to pay. Timing chains however are a different story and will generally last the lifetime of the engine.
Does a 2024 Toyota Camry have a timing chain?
Most new Toyota Camrys have timing chains, not timing belts.
Does the 2024 Toyota Corolla have a timing chain or belt?
If your Toyota Corolla is a model year 1998 or newer, it does not have a timing belt (it uses a chain instead). Corollas made between 1990 and 1997 use a timing belt. Toyota Corolla timing belts typically need to be replaced about every 60,000 miles.
