How to tell if a car has timing belt or chain? For example Honda Civic EX 2014. But I want a general method, when shopping for a used car I want to know if that particular car has a chain or a belt. For the Honda above most sites said chain, but Kelly Blue Book (KBB) said belt. The Honda User Manual PDF does not cover this topic.
easiest way: call dealer with VIN
#2 go to parts catalog website and look up vehicle+engine. See if it lists belt or chain.
#3 web search for <your engine mode> + specifications
This is the method I use -
The 2014 Civic with the R18 engine though, from the Haynes repair manual, has a timing chain.
You have to look it up online depending on the make, model and year. As crowded as engine compartments are these days, it's very difficult to tell from a visual inspection.
If the timing cover is easily accessible, you can unscrew it and take a peak. I don’t know how they are in newer cars, on my 1999 Accord it is easily accessible.
