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    Ask Smithy Xtra timing belt vs timing chain

    Holden Holden Advice Holden Astra Holden Astra Advice Holden Astra 2010

    Why do cars have to have a timing belt that costs $1000 or so to replace every four or five years when a timing chain seems to go on for many more years. My Holden Astra is the first car I have owned where I have had to spend such a large amount, and there was no mention of it when buying the car. How many cars are there with this expensive servicing need?

    Answered by CarsGuide
    5 July 2011
    Graham Smith

    The majority of carmakers use a timing belt. Why? It’s cheap. You could also argue that it’s quieter than a chain, which it is, but the main reason they use it is that it’s cheap. Nissan is one that tends to use a timing chain, so too does BMW, but you have to check each engine type to be sure because some carmakers use belts on some engines and chains on others.

    Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.
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