What Does a Timing Belt Do?

The timing belt, often made of reinforced rubber with high-tensile fibers, coordinates the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft. This synchronization allows the engine’s valves to open and close at precisely the right moments during each cylinder’s intake and exhaust strokes.
In interference engines — common in many Honda models — if the timing belt fails, valves and pistons can collide, causing extensive engine damage, making proactive maintenance essential.

When Should You Replace a Honda Timing Belt?

Honda recommends replacing the timing belt approximately every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on the model and engine type. Always refer to your Honda owner’s manual or maintenance schedule for model-specific guidelines.
Here’s a quick breakdown of common Honda models and general timing belt intervals:

• Honda Accord (V6 models): Every 105,000 miles or 7 years
• Honda Pilot: Every 105,000 miles or 7 years
• Honda Odyssey: Every 105,000 miles or 7 years
• Honda Ridgeline: Every 105,000 miles or 7 years
• Honda Civic (older models with belts): Typically every 90,000 miles

Note: Some newer Honda engines use a timing chain instead of a belt, which generally lasts the life of the vehicle. Use your vehicle's VIN to check its specs at Bernardi Parts.

Signs Your Timing Belt May Be Failing

Although durable, timing belts can still fail prematurely. Watch for these signs:

• Ticking or clicking sounds from the engine
• Engine misfires or poor performance
• Rough idling or hard starting
• Visible cracks, fraying, or glazing on the belt (if inspected)
• Oil leaks near the front of the engine (could damage the belt)
• Check Engine Light illuminated

Don’t wait for these symptoms — preventive replacement is always less costly than major engine repairs.

What Happens If You Don’t Replace It?

Failure to replace a worn timing belt can result in catastrophic engine failure. In an interference engine, the valves and pistons operate in the same space but at different times. If the belt snaps, the timing is lost, and the components can crash into one another, often destroying the engine.
A broken timing belt may lead to:

• Bent valves
• Cylinder head damage
• Damaged pistons
• Total engine replacement

Replacing the belt on schedule is far cheaper than replacing the entire engine.

What Does a Timing Belt Replacement Include?

A proper Honda timing belt replacement service involves more than just swapping out the belt. In most cases, your technician should also replace:

• Timing belt tensioner – Maintains the correct tension
• Water pump – Often driven by the timing belt; replace while accessible
• Idler pulleys – Help guide the belt
• Drive belts – Such as serpentine belts, if worn
• Camshaft and crankshaft seals – Prevent future oil leaks

Using OEM parts ensures optimal performance and durability. Genuine Honda timing belts meet factory standards for strength, reliability, and lifespan.

Why Choose Genuine Honda Timing Belt Parts?

When replacing such a vital component, never compromise on quality. Genuine Honda timing belts, tensioners, and water pumps are built to exact specifications and rigorously tested to ensure the longevity and reliability of your engine.
Buying from Bernardi Parts means you get:

• Guaranteed Genuine Honda Parts
• Factory-backed quality and compatibility
• Fast shipping and trusted customer service
• VIN-based part lookup to ensure exact fit
• Competitive pricing and regular discounts

How to Order the Right Honda Timing Belt at Bernardi Parts

Ordering the correct timing belt is simple at Bernardi Parts. Here’s how:

• Locate your Honda’s VIN
  Find this 17-digit identifier:
  – On the dashboard (driver’s side, visible through the windshield)
  – On your registration or insurance card
• Use the VIN Lookup Tool
  Enter your VIN on Bernardi Parts to see only the parts that match your specific year, make, model, and trim level.
• Search or Navigate to Timing Belt Kit
  Use the site’s intuitive navigation or search bar to find your Honda timing belt kit, water pump, and other related components.
• Confirm Fitment and Add to Cart
  Double-check that the parts match your vehicle before placing your order. Need help? Bernardi’s knowledgeable support team is just a call or email away.

DIY vs. Professional Timing Belt Replacement

Unless you're an experienced home mechanic with the proper tools and service manual, this is a job best left to professionals. Timing belt replacement involves precise alignment and torque settings, and a mistake could severely damage the engine.
However, if you are confident in your abilities, Bernardi Parts supplies all the OEM components and detailed diagrams needed to tackle the job.