Does Kia have a timing belt or chain?

Do you own a Kia and wonder if it has a timing belt or timing chain? Most Kia cars have a chain and therefore no timing belt. Only the following models have a belt:

• Timing belt Kia Picanto 1 litre petrol (2009-2011)
• Timing belt Kia Carnival 2.9 diesel (2001-2009)

The distribution chain is largely maintenance-free, while a replacement interval applies to the distribution belt. If you want to be sure, we always recommend consulting the instruction booklet to find out whether your car has a distribution belt or a distribution chain.

When to replace a Kia timing belt

Do you have one of the aforementioned Kia models with a timing belt? Make sure that the belt is replaced on time. If the belt wears out and snaps, you'll be worse off than before. Check the service booklet to see if you can find information about the last replacement date. If it is not there, see if there is a sticker under the bonnet with the last date or mileage when the belt was last replaced. If you do not know when the belt was last replaced and cannot find a sticker, it is wise to have the timing belt replaced immediately.

• KIA PICANTO (SA) 1.0 (45 kW, 999 ccm, 04/2004 - 04/2011)
  • At every 135,000 km or every 9 years
• KIA PICANTO (SA) 1.1 (48 kW, 1086 ccm, 04/2004 - 04/2011)
  • At every 135,000 km or every 9 years
• KIA PICANTO (SA) 1.0 (46 kW, 999 ccm, 04/2004 - 04/2011)
  • At every 135,000 km or every 9 years

When to replace a Kia timing chain

That a distribution chain lasts a lot longer than a belt should be clear, but a chain can also cause problems. In general people say that a chain can last up to 300,000 km but in practice it can happen that the chain stretches which can cause a rattling noise. So it is important to have the car checked regularly and to inspect the chain properly during the maintenance to prevent possible problems and damage.