The Toyota RAV4 has a timing chain on the engine. But which is better a timing chain or a timing belt. Well lets start with why the belt is good. First of all, the timing belt, because of its material, is much cheaper to produce and to buy made of rubber and not a stainless steel material like the timing chain. Another advantage is that engines that have timing belts are much quieter, getting rid of that metal with metal contact which was obvious at older car models with timing chains.The timing chain on the other hand lasts a long time. Because its made of metal some car manufactures say that it does not have to be changed at all, and I think that is partially true, if You take good care of the engine, especially if You put the proper oil in it.
Apparently it has a chain. Contrary to one opinion, it makes no noise as it’s bathed in oil. They’re better than a belt as it will last the life of the engine.
Personal experience. Two cars with timing belts broke while cars were being driven. Never had a timing chain to break!! The labor charge to replace a timing belt will knock off your socks!!
Rob barney
April 5, 2024
I had a late 80s MPV. Timing belt snapped on Freeway 99 near Tulare. Took it to shop in Tulare, they replace The belt and said I got lucky
Gene Bunker
September 8, 2023
My rav4 2017 does it have a Timing Chain or belt??
What Dave Henderson says above is not all true. Some engines with a timing belt can have the belt break and if it isn't what is called an "interferance" motor you can just replace the belt, retime it, and be on your way. A timing chain engine will last pretty much the life of the engine if you keep the oil changed. Now, if you have an interferance motor, it doesn't matter if it is a timing belt, or timing chain, you will probably do major engine damage. The valves will punch holes in the pistons and the pistons will bend the valves.
Dave Henderson
November 16, 2022
I believe anytime a timing belt snaps while driving you will "grenade" your engine and it's a very expensive fix. If you have a belt, it's just one of those maintenance things to plan on doing, even if it's not anywhere close to breaking. With a chain, drive until it breaks, still not cheap but it doesn't destroy your engine. And the chain likely will outlast your engine.
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