Why doesn t Honda use timing chain?
When it comes to car engines, one of the most debated topics among car enthusiasts and mechanics is the use of timing belts versus timing chains. Honda, a brand known for its reliability and engineering excellence, has historically leaned towards timing belts in many of its vehicles. But why is that the case? Let’s dive into the reasons behind Honda’s choice and explore the pros and cons of timing belts and chains.
Understanding Timing Belts and Timing Chains
Before we get into Honda’s decision, it’s important to understand the difference between timing belts and timing chains. Both serve the same purpose: they synchronize the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft, ensuring that the engine’s valves open and close at the right time during each cylinder’s intake and exhaust strokes. However, they differ in material and design:
- Timing Belts: Made of rubber and reinforced with materials like fiberglass or Kevlar, timing belts are lightweight and quieter during operation.
- Timing Chains: Made of metal, timing chains are more durable and resemble a bicycle chain in design. They are typically lubricated by engine oil.
Why Honda Prefers Timing Belts
Honda has historically used timing belts in many of its engines, particularly in models from the 1980s through the early 2000s. Here are some reasons why Honda has favored timing belts:
- Quieter Operation: Timing belts produce less noise compared to timing chains, which can be a significant factor in creating a smoother and quieter driving experience.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Timing belts are generally cheaper to manufacture and replace than timing chains, which helps keep production costs and repair expenses lower for consumers.
- Weight Savings: Timing belts are lighter than timing chains, which can contribute to improved fuel efficiency and performance in some vehicles.
The Shift Towards Timing Chains
In recent years, Honda has started incorporating timing chains into more of its engines. This shift is largely due to advancements in technology and changing consumer expectations. Timing chains offer several advantages:
- Durability: Timing chains are designed to last the lifetime of the engine, reducing the need for periodic replacement.
- Low Maintenance: Unlike timing belts, which typically need to be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, timing chains require little to no maintenance under normal conditions.
- Improved Reliability: Timing chains are less likely to fail suddenly, which can prevent costly engine damage.
Conclusion: A Balanced Approach
While Honda has historically used timing belts for their cost-effectiveness and quiet operation, the brand has increasingly adopted timing chains in newer models to meet modern demands for durability and low maintenance. Whether a vehicle uses a timing belt or chain often depends on the specific engine design and the priorities of the manufacturer. For Honda, the choice reflects a balance between performance, cost, and consumer expectations.
At Kevin’s Autos, we’ve worked on countless Honda vehicles over the years, and we’re here to help you maintain your car, whether it has a timing belt or chain. If you’re unsure about your vehicle’s timing system or need a replacement, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for expert advice and service!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a timing chain last 200 000 miles?
Timing chains can last anywhere between 150,000 and 200,000 miles before they require repair or sustain damage. But once they do, they must be replaced without fail as they can break off entirely, therefore causing the engine to fail.
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.
What year did Honda stop using 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.
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.
Why did they stop using timing chains?
The move to timing belts was a cost saving measure. But timing belts are more prone to catastrophic failure which in most engines will lead to irreparable damage.
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.
Can a timing chain last 300,000 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. Modern engines can last 300,000 miles or more with proper maintenance, and the timing chain can go that long, too.
Do timing chains last a lifetime?
Modern vehicles often rely on timing chains instead of traditional timing belts, and for a good reason: timing chains are durable, reliable, and built to last the lifetime of the engine—at least in theory!
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.
Which Hondas use timing chains?
If your Honda Accord dates back to 1997-2002, it has a timing belt. 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.
