Who makes Toyota OEM timing belts?
Toyota's OEM timing belts are typically manufactured by a small set of established belt makers, most often Mitsuboshi Belting Co. and Bando. The exact supplier can vary by engine family, production year, and regional market.
In more detail, automakers coordinate with multiple tier-one suppliers, and Toyota’s catalogs often list Mitsuboshi or Bando as the belt supplier for many engines. Some regions or specific engine families may use belts from other global manufacturers. When replacing, verify the correct belt using your vehicle’s engine code or VIN and rely on Toyota-approved OEM parts or equivalents.
Common Toyota timing belt suppliers
These brands appear most frequently in Toyota's official catalogs as timing belt suppliers.
- Mitsuboshi Belting Co., Ltd.
- Bando (Bandō Chemical Industries)
- Other regional or engine-specific suppliers may include Gates or Dayco for certain markets or engines
Note: The exact belt brand shown in a Toyota parts listing can vary by model and country. Always check the specific part number and manufacturer on the catalog or with a Toyota dealer for your engine code.
Details on verification and replacement
Because Toyota uses different suppliers across models and regions, the safest approach is to use the OE part listed for your exact engine. If in doubt, consult your dealer, provide your VIN, and request the Toyota-approved timing belt kit. Aftermarket belts labeled as OE equivalents may exist, but compatibility and performance can vary by engine.
Summary
In short, Toyota’s OEM timing belts are most commonly produced by Mitsuboshi Belting and Bando, with potential variations by engine and market. Always verify the correct belt for your specific Toyota engine code or VIN to ensure proper fit and performance.
Who makes Toyota timing belts?
Toyota doesn't make belts. Bando & Mitsuboshi are both Toyota's OE manufacturers, you just pay a higher price for the name & Logo. They are both great belts.
Is Gates better than Aisin?
Aisin is leagues better than the Gates kit. Arguably comparable to OEM. I used this kit to replace the timing belt on a 2005 Subaru Outback 2.5XT Limited 5 Speed Manual Transmission. It is the correct fitment for my vehicle.
Who makes the best quality timing belts?
Top timing belt brands include Aisin, Gates, Dayco, and Continental, with many mechanics also recommending INA and Goodyear. For the highest quality and a near-OEM experience, consider Aisin, especially for import vehicles, while Gates is another strong contender, though some mechanics note potential fitment issues with Gates belts in certain applications. Dayco is known for its unique, durable design, but some users report it can be stiffer and harder to install.
This video discusses why Aisin is a good choice for timing belt kits: 47sJimmy's Auto ClinicYouTube · Mar 16, 2025
Recommended brands
- Aisin: Considered a top-tier choice, with some mechanics stating it is comparable to OEM quality and especially recommended for certain import vehicles, such as those from Subaru and Toyota.
- Gates: A popular and strong aftermarket brand, often found in quality timing belt kits. However, some mechanics have reported experiencing fitment or stiffness issues with Gates belts in specific applications.
- Dayco: Known for its durable, proprietary design. Some users note that Dayco belts can be stiffer and more difficult to install on certain engines compared to other brands, says idpartsblog.com.
- Continental: A highly reliable brand, especially when looking for OEM-level parts, notes idpartsblog.com and YouTube. They are a popular choice for many vehicles.
- INA: An excellent and highly-rated option, particularly for some German engines like the VW TDI.
- Goodyear: A high-quality brand often cited for its timing belt products.
What to consider
- OE quality: For the best fit and performance, aim for brands that match the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) specifications for your vehicle, recommends YouTube.
- Completeness: Consider purchasing a complete kit that includes a water pump, tensioners, and other necessary components for a comprehensive repair.
- Engine compatibility: Some brands, like Dayco, may be more difficult to install on certain engines due to stiffness, so always check for compatibility and your own mechanical skill level, advises idpartsblog.com.
Is Denso an OEM for Toyota?
Yes, Denso is a major original equipment (OEM) supplier for Toyota and makes many parts that are installed in Toyota vehicles during manufacturing. However, there can be a difference between the specific OEM parts found in a new car and the aftermarket parts sold by Denso, as the OEM versions are built to Toyota's exact specifications and standards.
- OEM vs. aftermarket: The parts that come in a new Toyota from the factory are built to meet Toyota's specific standards. Denso also sells aftermarket parts, which can be of very high quality but may not be identical to the OEM parts in every detail, though they are often made by the same company.
- Part numbers: The part numbers for OEM and aftermarket Denso parts can be different, so it's important to use the correct part number for your specific vehicle.
- Examples of Denso parts: Denso supplies a wide range of components to Toyota, including electrical parts, spark plugs, sensors, and engine components.
