Close to 90k on Mazda3 - change any belts out?

[The Critic]

Originally Posted By: Vizzy
You can almost bet that the replacement and labor costs when you do need to replace the chains will be much higher compared to T belt replacement....

+1

A Timing Chain Replacement on a VQ35, Nissan V6 engine is around $1500.

 

[SAATR]

Originally Posted By: The Critic
Originally Posted By: Vizzy
You can almost bet that the replacement and labor costs when you do need to replace the chains will be much higher compared to T belt replacement....

+1

A Timing Chain Replacement on a VQ35, Nissan V6 engine is around $1500.


Having done a few timing chain replacements on VQ30DE equipped Maxima's I must say that they are no picnic.

The real question is what would the service interval be on a timing belt if used in the same application? If you have to change the belt twice as often for half the cost of changing the chain, is it really any better in the long term?

 

[rationull]

Originally Posted By: Bill in Utah
Originally Posted By: rationull

Subaru comes to mind as a manufacturer still using a timing belt on their primary 4 cylinder engine though.


Not any more. Starting with MY 2011 the standard Subaru 2.5l H4 motor is now a chain with DOHC.

Bill


Great news! If this extends to the turbo versions it may take the WRX off my "tempting but don't want to consider" list.