Zebra

At what milage does the timing belt in a 2008 Civic LX get changed? Is 60,000 still the target milage? I realize Honda has an interference engine and a broken belt means major engine damage. Thanks for the opinions.

SC Tiger

I'm pretty sure the Civic uses a timing chain now, which doesn't need replacement unless it actually breaks. No maintenance intervals.

hatchy69

iTrader: (2)

^^Correct

CheapAndFast

Timing chains are infinitely better than belts but I wouldn't allow it to break. A safe, key work safe, service interval is usually around 150k miles, being that they will stretch over time and nobody likes bent vaves

97emsedan

No maintenance issues for the chain is true, the tensioners on the other hand do require maintenance. The inspection intervals are as you stated, 150K, but they do last longer than the old belts did. I would not be worried, have them looked at when they are due and you should be good.

Zebra

Thank you all for the input!

sick-_-si

i had to have my chain and tensioner replaced at 86k on my 06 si coupe

Zebra

How did you know that your timing chain and tensioner had to be replaced so early? Hesitation in the engine? What symptoms did you experience?

sick-_-si

vtec kicked in occasionally, sluggish acceleration but worst thing was when i started in the morning had a really nasty rattle coming from the head.

bc the previous owner had no clue what maintence was done i just decided to start with the timing and tune up. all the issues listed above were gone

castajc82

Timing belt replacement is 105k miles or 7 years for normal service. heavy commuters is closer to 60k mile mark. Honda has A TSB FOR CHAIN MOTORS ON CHAIN MOTORS FOR RATTLE FROM VALVE COVER ON COLD STARTS. Problem is caused by VTC actuator not maintaining oil pressure on start up. Goes away after a few seconds after start up. Warranty repair depending on mileage. Call dealer with mileage and vin/production date for verification. If not it is an easy fix if you are experienced. If you are not then you will pay good money to have it done COD. If not done properly timing can be messed up and worse case chain my fall off crank requiring complete side cover removal.

martinklie

Thought Honda were non-interference engines? So even if it does break you will not destroy the motor.

nsxmatt

NO! So much bad info here, you do not change the chain only inpect it. We have many 300k+ mile cars and even one 800k mile Civic on the original chain. These are not old types of chains, unless there is a defect or problem it should not need any attention.