What's better timing chain or belt?

Most automakers recommend replacing the timing belt every 60,000 to 105,000 miles. Timing chains are heavier and more complex than timing belts, but they also last much longer. Really, unless there's a problem, timing chains don't have a replacement interval.

Is a timing chain better then a belt?

A: Timing chains are stronger than timing belts. Timing chains also last longer. Timing belts are quieter than timing chains and are cheaper and easier to replace.

Does a timing chain last longer than a timing belt?

What is the lifespan of timing belts and timing chains? Timing chains generally have a longer lifespan than timing belts. The reason for this is quite simple: chains are made from metal, whilst timing belts are made from rubber, which simply isn't as strong.

Is it better to replace timing chain or engine?

A: As a general rule, if an engine has a timing chain and the oil was changed on a regular basis, the timing chain should last the lifetime of the engine.

What is the life expectancy of a timing chain?

When does a timing chain need to be replaced? The timing chain normally needs to be replaced between 80,000 and 120,000 miles unless there is a specific problem. Issues with the chain are common in higher mileage vehicles.

TIMING CHAINS vs. BELTS - Differences, Evolution, History and more

Can a timing chain last 200 000 miles?

In a well-maintained engine, a timing chain can last up to 300,000 miles or even longer.

How much does a new timing chain cost?

Timing chain replacement can cost between $600 and $800 for a DIY repair, or between $1,600 and $1,800 with a mechanic. The cost is high due to the complicated nature of replacing this part. If you want to DIY a timing chain replacement, the parts will cost around $650.

Will a broken timing chain destroy my engine?

A broken timing chain will cause an engine to not start or fail while driving. If the belt is already broken, the engine won't have enough compression to start. If it breaks or jumps while driving, the pistons will be damaged from contact with the valves. The valves themselves will bend and potentially ruin the engine.

How do I know if my timing chain needs to be replaced?

What causes timing chain failure?

Low oil levels and engine overheating are two most common things that can cause the timing chain to fail prematurely. Both of these situations will put extra heat and stress on the timing chain which can cause it to stretch.

Why is chain better than belt?

Timing chains are heavier and more complex than timing belts, but they also last much longer. Really, unless there's a problem, timing chains don't have a replacement interval. Regular oil changes prevent premature wear, stretching, and failure.

What cars still use timing chains?

What's the benefit of timing chains?

A timing chain, just like a belt, is there for one reason: to connect the crankshaft to the camshaft at exact points so the valves open and close at the correct time for engine operation.

Can a timing belt last 20 years?

Depending on what schedule you may read, including information distributed by the manufacturers themselves, the average life span of a timing belt is between 60,000 and 105,000 miles or after 7 to 10 years regardless of mileage.

How often should you replace your timing chain?

Unless there is a specific fault, the timing chain should be replaced between 80,000 and 120,000 miles. Chain problems are frequent in automobiles with increasing mileage. If you're driving an older car or one with a lot of miles on it, keep an eye out for signs that the timing chain is failing.

Do any cars still use timing belts?

Does My Car Have a Timing Belt? Some car manufacturers have begun to replace the timing belts on newer vehicles with timing chains. The idea is that a chain is more durable and will last as long as the vehicle. Depending on the make, model and year of your car, you may not have a timing belt.

What does it sound like when timing chain is going out?

A lax timing chain, or worse, a broken timing chain with loose parts within the engine, will produce a rattling sound when your car is idling. This rattling sound is typically most prominent while the engine heats up and disappears after some time.

How much does it cost to replace a timing belt?

If your timing belt is in need of replacement, you can expect that service to cost anywhere from $300 up to $500. Because the timing belt is not easily reachable on many vehicles there is a good bit of disassembly and reassembly needed to get to the belt. Economy cars with smaller engines require less labor.

What happens if timing belt breaks while driving?

When the timing belt breaks, the crankshaft will continue to spin at 1000 rotations per minute, while the camshaft will stop turning. As a result, the pistons will continue to rise and fall in their cylinders, but they will strike closed valves.

How many labor hours does it take to replace a timing chain?

Overall, replacing the timing chain and its associated hardware should take a qualified mechanic 5 to 8 hours to complete.

Will a bad timing chain throw a code?

A stretched timing chain contributes to poor engine performance and increased emissions, triggering the check engine light and the storing of a diagnostic trouble code. A mechanic will need to inspect the code and prescribe the necessary repairs.

How long will a cracked timing belt last?

In most cases, the need for a timing belt replacement will not be made clear until it breaks. As a general rule of thumb, mechanics recommend replacing it every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. You also can look in your owner's manual to verify manufacturer recommendations as well.

Why is replacing a timing belt so expensive?

The timing belt itself isn't an expensive part. The time and labor are what make it so expensive. To get to the timing belt, the engine needs to be disassembled. Doing so takes significant time and effort.

Do V6 engines have timing belts?

An Accord from 2008-2012 with a 4-cylinder engine will have a timing chain, whereas the V6 engine models have a timing belt. From 2013-2017, the 4-cylinder models still have a timing chain and the V6 models have a timing belt.