I always think the cam drive system is a critical factor for engine reliability and longevity. Does Honda's Accord feature a timing chain or belt?

The question of a Honda Accord timing belt or chain is not exactly a simple one to answer as there have been various permutations of the Accord theme sold in Australia over the years. In fact, even though they all bore Accord badges, the various Accord models have often been quite different from each other, including some very different models that sold alongside each other at the same time. So here’s how it pans out: Very early Honda Accords sold here used toothed rubber timing belts, but those cars from 1977 through to the mid-90s are now pretty old, hard to find and don’t really make it to most people’s short-lists when shopping for a new second-hand car. Fast forward to 1997, and we start to get into cars that might still have some broad appeal as second-hand buys. Of those, the 1997 to 2003 Accord used two engines, a 2.3-litre four-cylinder and a 3.0-litre V6. Both those engines used a toothed, rubber timing belt which needs to be changed at 100,000km intervals. For 2003 to 2007 Accords, the engine choices remained a four-cylinder and a V6, but now the former was from Honda’s K Series of engines and featured a timing chain rather than a rubber belt. The V6 remained the same as the previous model. For 2008 to 2013 Accords, the news was similar with the four-cylinder carried over (with its timing chain) and the V6 enlarged to 3.5 litres but still from the same family of engines (and still with its rubber timing belt). In fact, that was to remain a theme for the whole of Accord production with the smaller engine using a timing chain and the V6 getting a rubber belt. Even the very last Accord, the current-model, uses a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a timing chain, while the hybrid Accord uses an unconventional petrol engine, also with a timing chain. If, however, we’re talking about the Accord Euro which was sold here right alongside the Accord between 2003 and 2015, the question is a bit simpler as only one engine was offered in that car; a 2.4-litre four-cylinder which used a timing chain (it was also from Honda’s K Series family). Beyond that, the task of the timing chain or timing belt is exactly the same: They take drive from the engine’s crankshaft to the camshaft and, in the process, keep all the moving parts in harmony. Many car makers moved away from a timing chain to the rubber, toothed drive belt as a way of simplifying engine design and driving down the cost of each engine. The rubber timing belt is also quieter in its operation and is also less prone to stretching (as a timing chain can) so the camshaft (commonly referred to as the cam) stays in perfect synch with the rest of the engine’s rotating parts. The timing belt is a simpler design because it doesn’t need to be tensioned via oil pressure from the engine as many timing chain systems are. The timing chain, meanwhile, is preferred by some manufacturers because it should last the lifetime of the engine and never need replacement. This isn’t always the case, however, and some engines designs from a variety of manufacturers suffer problems in this regard. But, in a properly maintained engine of sound design, the timing chain should never need attention, while the rubber timing belt generally requires periodic replacement.

Honda Accord: Key fob replacement

Without knowing more it's hard to give an accurate answer. There are circumstances where you can go to an automotie locksmith if a dealer is hard to get to. You can read more indepth information about how to replace your car keys here.

Mazda 6 2004 vs Honda Accord 2008: Which should I buy?

Until you described the condition I would have said the Mazda, but if the condition were only fair I would think twice about it. On the surface it’s the better option, but I would want it checked by an expert to get a true reading on the overall condition. The Honda could be a good buy, the mileage isn’t excessive for the age, but you have to think about the future and what could happen in the next 2 to 3 years.

How much is my 2005 Honda Accord worth?

Very little. If all was well with the car, and it was in good driving condition it’s only worth $3000-$4000, but if the automatic transmission has to be replaced it’s probably worth $500 or so.

Ford Focus 2012: Is it good on the highway?

The Focus is a good car with a serious flaw; it has a dual-clutch automatic transmission that gives trouble. I would happily have a 2012 Focus with a manual gearbox, but I wouldn't buy one with a dual-clutch auto. I'd be looking at a Japanese or Korean brand and going for something like a Mazda 3, Honda Civic or Accord, Hyundai Elantra with a good record of reliability.

Honda Accord 2007 Problems

No car is perfect, but we've gathered everything relating to the Honda Accord 2007 reliability here to help you decide if it's a smart buy.

Used Honda Accord and Accord Euro review: 2003-2015

31 Mar 2016 · by Ewan Kennedy

Two substantially different Honda Accords were sold in Australia from 2003 onwards; one mid-sized, the other large and almost in the same size class as our home grown Commodores and Falcons. It's ...

Used Honda Accord review: 2003-2008

21 Nov 2014 · by Graham Smith

Judy Omerod has done 90,000 km in her 2006 Accord Euro and says it has been brilliant. It has never given her any trouble; it runs smoothly, accelerates quickly and is easy to manoeuvre in tight ...

Accord Euro ant problems

Answered by CarsGuide 16 Aug 2013

Maybe Richard Curtis could check the area where he parks his car and moves it to a safer location. Your confirmation of an issue suggests Honda could look at better sealing of their ECU to stop ants from entering it.

Used Honda Accord review: 2003-2012

11 Jun 2013 · by Ewan Kennedy

Honda cars have long held a reputation as being a step above other Japanese marques in quality and prestige. Nowhere does this show more than in the medium-large Accord sedans.These days the Honda ...

Used medium sedans review: 2007-2011

11 Mar 2013 · by Stuart Martin

Ignore the middle child at your peril when it comes to buying the family car.  The large-car segment is in the doldrums and everyone has skipped to SUVs or small cars, but one area overlooked to the ...

Euro break down

Answered by CarsGuide 18 Jun 2012

Unfortunately it would appear you are dealing with an incompetent or deceptive dealer. Ask to see proof of what work has been done by the dealer, and have them justify their findings to you. I would also take the case to Honda direct and demand head office intervention. Also consider taking your case to consumer affairs.

Engine

Used Honda Accord review: 2003-2008

17 May 2012 · by Graham Smith

As newThe Accord V6 was so different to the Accord Euro that shared Honda showrooms that it could well have come from a completely different maker. The V6 was bigger and plusher than the svelte, ...

Honda Accord window winders

Answered by CarsGuide 22 Sep 2011

Problems with window winders is not uncommon, although we haven't heard of this issue in particular. As to what to do, you should maintain the pressure on the dealers to fix it seeing that it is under warranty, and you could also consult an auto electrician in your area.

Ask Smithy Xtra Warping brakes on Honda Accord

Answered by CarsGuide 12 Oct 2010

Your report is not the only one of rapid wear and warping of the rotors, but carmakers regard the wear as normal wear and tear. All brakes wear, so you have to determine if the wear on your car is indeed “normal” or something more. Certainly at 30,000 km you would appear to have a case.

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Honda Accord 2007 Problems

Used Honda Accord and Accord Euro review: 2003-2015

Used Honda Accord review: 2003-2008

Accord Euro ant problems

Used Honda Accord review: 2003-2012

Used medium sedans review: 2007-2011

Euro break down

Used Honda Accord review: 2003-2008

Honda Accord window winders

Ask Smithy Xtra Warping brakes on Honda Accord

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Complete Guide to Honda
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