The timing system ensures that the engine’s valves open and close in precise synchronisation with the pistons. This is achieved via a belt or a chain, and whichever your car has determines when and how often you need to replace this component. A belt is made of toothed plastic; it is quieter and cheaper, but wears out more quickly. A chain is made of steel; it lasts longer, but is more expensive to replace. Below, you can read about the other differences, how to find out which one your car has, and when replacement is needed.
What is the difference between a timing belt and a chain?
Both the timing belt and the chain serve the same purpose: they synchronise the rotation of the crankshaft and the camshaft, ensuring that the valves open and close at the right moment. A timing belt is a toothed belt made of strong plastic; it is flexible, quiet and relatively inexpensive, but it wears out due to heat and use and must be replaced periodically. A timing chain is made of linked steel, is more durable and, in many cases, lasts for the entire life of the engine, but is noisier and more expensive to replace. More compact engines tend to use a belt because it takes up less space, whilst larger engines and premium brands more often use a chain.
How can I find out what my car is like?
The simplest way is to check your car’s service booklet or technical specifications. If a replacement interval for the timing belt is specified, your car has a belt. If there is no such specification, it is likely to be a chain. You can also check visually: a timing belt is usually located on the side of the engine behind a plastic cover, whilst a chain is usually behind a metal cover at the front of the engine block. If you’re still unsure, a garage or specialist can confirm this within a minute.
Which brands use a strap or chain?
It varies not only by make, but also by model and year of manufacture, so always check the specifications of your own car. Makes that frequently use a timing chain include Toyota, BMW, Audi and Opel, whilst Volvo, Nissan, Ford, Hyundai and Chrysler tend to use a timing belt more often. Nevertheless, all these makes have models in their range that feature both a belt and a chain. A car from a “chain make” may therefore still have a belt, and vice versa, depending on the engine type.
When should you replace the timing belt?
A timing belt has a limited service life and must be replaced at the intervals specified by the manufacturer, usually between 60,000 and 120,000 kilometres or every 4 to 6 years. Whichever comes first is the deciding factor, as even a belt that has covered few kilometres ages due to heat and weather conditions. When replacing the belt, the tensioner, guide roller and water pump are often replaced at the same time, as these parts have the same service life and are accessible during the same job. A timing chain does not, in principle, have a fixed replacement interval, but if you hear a rattling or ticking noise when starting the engine, this may indicate a worn chain or chain tensioner.
What happens if the timing belt snaps?
A broken timing belt is one of the most expensive types of engine damage you can suffer. As soon as the belt breaks, the crankshaft and camshaft lose synchronisation, causing the pistons to strike the open valves. This results in bent valves, damaged pistons and, in the worst-case scenario, an irreparably damaged engine block. Repair costs can quickly run into thousands of euros, whereas replacing the belt in good time costs a fraction of that. You should therefore never wait longer than the recommended interval.
Need a timing belt or chain? Japoto is here to help
At Japoto, you’ll find new and second-hand distribution components for Japanese and Korean brands, with over 70,000 items in stock. Not sure which part you need? Please get in touch via 0596 – 57 2992 or send an email to info@japoto.nl.