Common Timing Belt Problems For The Honda Civic
If you have a 2005 or older Honda Civic, chances are you’ll experience issues with the timing belt at some point. Here’s a list of symptoms related to timing belt failure on the Civic, as well as some diagnostic tips, repair info, recommended parts, and background information.
Honda Civic Timing Belt Failure Symptoms
- Engine ticking or rattling noises
- Engine misfire or rough running
- Engine overheating
- Engine not starting
Timing Belt Diagnosis and Repair Tips
Honda Civics with a timing belt have interference engines. This means if the timing belt fails the valves will contact the pistons and cause severe engine damage. The timing belt can break from wear or deterioration with age. The teeth of the timing belt can wear down with high mileage. The rubber compound of the timing belt can also become stiff and crack over many years. The following conditions can lead to timing belt failure and possible engine damage:
- Timing belt age
- Timing belt wear
- Timing belt tensioner failure
- Lack of maintenance
It’s critical to address timing belt issues at the first sign of engine noise or performance issues. Preventative maintenance and early awareness of timing belt failure symptoms can help avoid more costly engine repairs.
Recommended Replacement Timing Belts
Listed below are the recommended replacement timing belts available for Honda Civic.
| Year/Make/Model | Part Number |
| 2001-05 Civic L4 1.7L 1668cc 2002-04 Civic L4 1.7L 1700cc | Engine Timing Belt Component Kit: 2435-0312 Engine Timing Belt Tensioner: 435-6733 Engine Timing Belt Kit w/ Water Pump: 3435-0312 |
| 1996-2000 Civic L4 1.6L 1588cc 1996-2000 Civic L4 1.6L 1590cc 1993-97 Civic del Sol L4 1.6L 1588cc | Engine Timing Belt Component Kit: 2435-0224 Engine Timing Belt Tensioner: 435-9040 Engine Timing Belt Kit w/ Water Pump: 3435-1224 |
| 1999-2000 Civic L4 1.6L 1595cc 1996-97 Civic del Sol L4 1.6L1595cc 1994-95 Civic del Sol L4 1.6L 1588cc | Engine Timing Belt Component Kit: 2435-0227 Engine Timing Belt Tensioner: 435-8580 Engine Timing Belt Kit w/ Water Pump: 3435-0227 |
| 1988-95 Civic L4 1.5L 1493cc 1988-91 Civic CRX L4 1.5L 1493cc 1993-95 Civic del Sol L4 1.5L 1493cc | Engine Timing Belt Component Kit: 2435-0143 Engine Timing Belt Tensioner: 435-8100 Engine Timing Belt Kit w/ Water Pump: 3435-0143 |
| 1988-91 Civic L4 1.6L 1588cc 1988-91 Civic CRX L4 1.6L 1588cc | Engine Timing Belt Component Kit: 2435-0145 Engine Timing Belt Tensioner: 435-8100 Engine Timing Belt Kit w/ Water Pump: 3435-0145 |
Why Do Honda Civics Have Timing Belt Problems?
A common problem with Honda Civic timing belts is the failure of the timing belt tensioner. The spring inside the tensioner can weaken and fail over time. Otherwise, timing belt and tensioner failures can occur with age and high mileage. Water pump life can also be affected by the condition of the timing belt and tensioner, and cooling system problems. Always perform scheduled cooling system maintenance to ensure long water pump life. Inspect the timing belt at recommended internals. Replace the timing belt tensioner and water pump whenever you’re replacing the timing belt.
Learn more about the symptoms of timing belt tensioner failure.
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