What cars have timing belts?

Question

What cars have timing chains not belts besides newer Toyotas? And when do you REALLY need to change the belts? Do you ever have to change the chains? Now the trucks, I know a Ranger has a belt, but most other trucks have chains?

Thanks.

Answer 1

i would check to see if the car you are looking at has a "interferance" engine or an engine that the piston will hit the valves if the timing belt breaks. if not then usually new cars can go for 100,000 or more before needing it done but if it does have a interferance engine, i would do it every 60,000

Answer 2

Timing belts or chains are only used in engines that have overhead cams. Most American cars have overhead valves with push rods and therefore dont have timing belts. Some very recent American engines are using overhead cams and therefore have timing belts or chains.

I have a 2001 Saab, and Saab has always used timing chains, which dont require replacement. I also have a 2002 Honda Odyssey which has a timing belt that needs replacing at 105K miles.

Answer 3

These days 99% or more of the vehicles have belts. For peace of mind 50k to 60k is a good changing interval. If you have a close tolerance engine the valves will hit the pistons when the belt snaps. VERY COSTLY to repair.

Answer 4

My '99 Nissan has a chain, alot of imports use chains, its cheaper in the long run.