Timing Belt or Timing Chain: Differences, Pros, Cons and Upkeep

A timing belt is a toothed rubber belt that must be replaced at intervals set by the manufacturer. A timing chain is metal and is designed to last much longer, but it still depends on good oil and can wear. Which one your car has is decided by the engine, so the important thing is knowing which you have and looking after it properly.

What does a timing belt or chain do?

It links the crankshaft to the camshafts so the valves open and close at exactly the right moment as the pistons move. On many engines, if the belt or chain fails, the valves and pistons can hit each other, causing serious and expensive damage.

How do I know if my car has a belt or a chain?

• Check the owner's handbook or service schedule. If it lists a cambelt or timing belt change, your car has a belt.

• Ask a garage. We can look it up from your registration at our service centre.

• Some engines use a "wet belt", a timing belt that runs in engine oil. These have their own maintenance needs, explained in our guide to wet belt replacement.

What are the pros and cons of a timing belt?

Advantages

• Quieter than a chain.

• Lighter, and usually cheaper as a part.

Disadvantages

• Must be replaced at the manufacturer's interval, which is set in both miles and years. Whichever comes first applies.

• Can fail with little warning if it is overdue, contaminated by oil or coolant, or a tensioner or pulley fails.

• Replacement is labour-intensive on many engines, so the job is often done together with the water pump and tensioners.

What are the pros and cons of a timing chain?

Advantages

• Designed to last much longer than a belt, often for the life of the engine if it is well maintained.

• No routine replacement interval on most engines.

Disadvantages

• Relies on clean oil at the right level. Missed oil changes and the wrong oil can wear the chain, guides and tensioner early.

• If a chain does stretch or a tensioner fails, the repair can be a big job.

• Some engines are known for chain problems, so it is worth asking about the history of the model you are looking at.

What are the warning signs of a problem?

• A rattle from the front of the engine, especially on a cold start, can point to chain or tensioner wear.

• A ticking or whining noise, misfires or rough running.

• An engine warning light with timing-related fault codes.

• Oil or coolant leaks near the timing cover on a belt engine.

If you notice any of these, get the car checked before driving it far. Our guide to strange noises explains when to stop.

What should I check when buying a used car?

• On a belt engine, ask for proof that the belt was changed on time, with the date and mileage. If there is no proof, budget for having it done.

• On a chain engine, look for a regular oil change history.

• Listen to the engine from cold, and be wary of a rattle on start-up.

Common questions

How much does a cambelt change cost?

It depends on the engine, as the time needed varies a lot. Our service centre labour rate is £80 per hour plus VAT, and we can quote for your car. See also our guide to cambelt change costs.

Do timing chains ever need replacing?

Not routinely on most engines, but they can wear, particularly if oil changes have been missed. Replacement is done when wear is found.

Can I drive with an overdue timing belt?

You can, but you are taking a risk. If it fails, it can cause major engine damage. Book the change as soon as you can.

Book a check in Barnsley

For a timing belt change, a chain inspection or a quote, contact the anycolourcar.com service centre in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, on 01226 574321, or visit our servicing and repairs page.

Updated October 2026.