EdupradaVery few people can tell if their car has a chain or a timing belt. This is why in this article we are going to explain everything about the difference between the chain and the belt and detail the strong points and weak points of each solution.
How do I know if my vehicle is equipped with a timing chain or belt?
It is not very complicated to know if your vehicle is equipped with a chain or a timing belt< a i=2>. Here is a few steps to follow to no longer have any doubts!
Step 1: Look at the production date of your car
The age of your car is an indicator of whether it has a chain or a belt. If your vehicle is from before the late 1990s, it is very likely that it is equipped with a timing chain.
Step 2: Carry out a visual inspection
You can tell if your car is equipped with a timing chain or belt with a simple visual check:
- The timing belt is flexible, made of rubber and black in color.
- The timing chain is made of metal, it looks like a bicycle chain with links.
Why choose a distribution chain?
It is rarer today, but the distribution chain is still returning more and more to the automobile market thanks to its many strong points. But be careful, it also has its little flaws.
What are the advantages of a distribution chain?
The main advantages of a distribution chain are:
- Unparalleled reliability, because the metal is very resistant to high and low temperatures.
- An almost infinite lifespan! It generally lasts as long as your vehicle.
What are the disadvantages of a distribution chain?
The main disadvantages of a distribution chain are:
- Its weight is greater than a belt, the chain therefore requires more effort from your engine to drive it, which causes fuel consumption more important
- It also makes a lot more noise than a rubber timing belt.
Why choose a timing belt?
The timing belt also has its advantages and disadvantages but it is much more widespread than the timing chain on the market.
What are the advantages of a timing belt?
The main advantages of a timing belt are:
- Light, because it is made of rubber, the belt requires less effort from the engine. As a result, fuel consumption is lower and you do not lose engine power.
- Lower inertia which allows it to offer better recovery.
- Quiet, thanks to its flexibility, the belt emits very little noise.
What are the disadvantages of a timing belt?
The main disadvantages of a timing belt are:
- Its lifespan: it must change every 100,000 to 150,000 km depending on the type of your engine. Its breakage could cause serious damage to your engine. So if your vehicle is approaching 100,000 km, don’t take any risks and find the nearest garage on Vroomly!
Whether your engine is equipped with a timing chain or belt, its proper functioning also depends on its maintenance. When buying a used car, do not hesitate to find out about its distribution type, and when it was last changed. For what ? Because in the case of a replacement, it can cost you up to €1,000.