I have been thinking about this for several days because I love cars.
It’s not that you can’t find out; instead, there is much contradictory information available.
Some claim that the Honda CRV has a timing belt, while others claim it has a chain.
Belts are better than chains since they are more robust and don’t require oil, but chains are also easier to change than belts, so what do I know? They both seem fine to me.
Does the Honda CRV feature a timing chain or a timing belt?
Timing chains are included with Honda CRVs. In contrast to other vehicles, the timing chain-equipped 2002–2004 models had a rubber belt tensioner. This is not a problem because if you upgrade to a better, more lasting model, you can still replace this rubber portion with a metal one.
On the other hand, you can continue using the old belt tensioner for a little longer because this change is not required.
Difference Between a Timing belt and a Chain in a Car Engine
A rubber belt with internal teeth is known as a timing belt.
It encircles the camshaft and crankshaft sprockets to coordinate their speeds during each rotation.
The timing belt, which keeps the engine on schedule and opens valves as needed, is in charge of timing the engine.
Older engines frequently contain timing belts.
A metal chain with internal teeth is a timing chain.
It accomplishes the same task as a timing belt.
Older engines are more likely to use timing chains, but some modern engines do as well.
They changed the timing belts since they stretch and break, while chains can withstand far more abuse.
Although timing chains don’t need to be adjusted, they can extend and result in timing issues with your engine.
The valves and pistons are unaffected when the timing chain stretches, but if your car is still running, it signifies your timing chain is seriously damaged, and you shouldn’t go very far until you repair it.
A timing chain replacement is difficult and takes at least 3 hours.
Timing chain vs. Belt: Which One is Better?
Engine valve timing depends on the cooperation of the timing chain and belt at all times.
Nonetheless, belts are frequently fitted in newer engines, while chains are typically seen in older automobiles.
On the other hand, timing chains outlast timing belts and don’t need to be replaced frequently; they can endure for years and, in some cases, decades.
Timing belts must be replaced every 60 000 to 80 000 kilometers or every 60 000 to 80 000 miles. If the timing belt breaks, the engine will probably suffer severe damage that could cost you several thousand dollars to fix.
A timing belt replacement is simple and takes around one hour.
What are some tips for keeping your Honda CRV timing chain in excellent condition?
A timing chain requires very little maintenance and should last the whole life of your vehicle.
That doesn’t mean you won’t occasionally need to replace it, though, as this requires periodic inspection and upkeep just like any other auto component.
At 50,000 miles, it would be prudent to have a repair. Check the condition of your timing chain.
Take your car to a mechanic if you’re unsure about whether it requires maintenance or not; he may offer you any advice on the subject.
Nonetheless, maintaining a clean timing chain can help avoid slippage and engine valve and piston damage.
Also, changing the timing chain tensioner will also lessen the risk of piston and valve deterioration.
The timing chain should only be replaced with high-quality components; low-quality components tend to wear out sooner than high-quality ones.
Honda CRV Timing Chain Replacement Cost
A timing chain is a component that should only be replaced if it extends; otherwise, there is no need to do so.
Replacing a timing chain will take you at least 3 hours, so it is not a quick process.
The cost to replace the timing chain on a Honda CRV Depending on where you live, the price can vary, but this service typically costs $500 or more.
Please keep in mind that if your car has a rubber belt tensioner, you might need to replace the timing chain tensioner.
Depending on where you live, the cost to replace the timing chain tensioner on a Honda CRV can range from $300 and above.
Tips For Changing Your CRV Timing Chain
Honda CRV timing chain replacement is not advised for novice mechanics or car owners.
When installing a new timing chain, it is crucial to check that the engine valves are in the correct locations because if you do it improperly, your car won’t start again.
Keep in mind that while changing the timing belt on a Honda CRV, you will also need to replace the timing belt tensioner. This is because rubber belt tensioners eventually wear out, so if your car has a rubber one, it needs to be replaced with a metal one.
You don’t even need to be concerned if your automobile has a plastic timing chain tensioner because this sort of tensioner never wears out, even after 100,000 miles.
Before performing any work on your automobile, make sure to read the instructions; if you’re unsure, take it to a mechanic and let him handle it.
Be sure everything is done correctly if you change the timing chain on a Honda CRV.
The engine turning over but not starting, or starting and stopping right away, is a severe
problem that could happen.
That indicates that there is another issue, possibly brought on by the timing chain, that was not replaced when it was time for your automobile.
How to Change a Honda CRV Timing Chain
Make sure you have a flathead screwdriver, a 10mm, and a 21mm socket wrench in case you need to change your timing chain.
Place the vehicle securely on jack supports or ramps.
When performing the DIY, make sure the emergency brake is fully engaged to prevent your car from rolling backward.
Do not rest your car’s hood on the fenders or the windscreen; instead, open the hood and place it in a safe location.
In order to access the timing chain, you must first remove various parts.
The timing chain tensioner is secured by a deep interior bolt. Thus you will need to use a socket wrench and a 10mm socket to remove it.
Take out your old timing chain after you’ve taken off all the bolts.
Last but not least, replace the timing chain and reassemble everything in the opposite sequence.
Remember that you must remove and swap out your rubber belt tensioner for a metal one if you have one.
The Advantages of Changing the Timing Chain on a Honda CRV.
You will need to replace the complete engine, which will cost you several thousand dollars if your timing chain breaks because it will harm the engine’s valves and pistons.
If the engine has a rubber belt tensioner, one would also replace the timing chain tensioners.
The rubber timing chain tensioner would also need to be changed out with a metal one, which would not accomplish anything for your engine’s performance.
It takes roughly 3 hours to DIY replace a timing chain on a Honda CRV. Therefore it’s not advised if you have no experience with vehicles or engines.
The best course of action can be that you can take your automobile to a mechanic and let him handle this, as replacing a timing chain is not simple and doesn’t cost much; the entire cost will be less than $500.
Honda CRV Timing Chain Failure Symptoms
Other than the noise it makes and the inability to start your automobile, a broken timing chain has no additional symptoms.
There is a reasonable probability that your timing chain needs to be replaced if you hear a clicking sound.
If this is the case, you might also see some smoke coming from your exhaust.
You won’t be able to start your car if you have a damaged timing chain because oil may pour out of your engine and enter your combustion chamber.
We can tell you whether Honda CRVs have timing belts or chains if you’re curious.
It turns out that up until 2004, when they switched to utilizing only chains, Honda CRVs were produced using a strap and chain system.
So, in addition to having an incredibly dependable engine, these cars also have completely maintenance-free drivetrains.