AdChoices
Which Acura Engines Use a Timing Belt? V
In recent Acura models, the timing belt belongs to the V6 engines. The MDX 3.5L V6 is a single overhead cam design whose camshafts are driven by an automatically tensioned toothed belt, and Acura's Maintenance Minder lists a belt replacement for the 3.0L Turbo V6 used in Type S models as well.
Earlier belt-equipped models include the 2014 to 2020 MDX, the V6 RDX from 2013 to 2018, the 2015 to 2020 TLX V6 and the 2021 to 2025 TLX Type S. The four-cylinder turbos work differently: the 1.5L in the Integra and ADX and the 2.0L in the RDX and Integra Type S drive their cams with chains.
- 2026 MDX 3.5L V6: timing belt
- 2026 MDX Type S Advance 3.0L Turbo V6: timing belt
- Older belt models: 2014 to 2020 MDX, 2013 to 2018 RDX V6, TLX V6 and TLX Type S
- Integra and ADX 1.5L VTEC Turbo: maintenance-free cam chain
- RDX and Integra Type S 2.0L VTEC Turbo: maintenance-free cam chain
Schedule Service
When Acura Calls for a New Timing Belt V
Acura does not print a fixed mileage for belt replacement under normal driving. The Maintenance Minder calls for it as sub-item 4, which appears with main code A or B, so a B4 reading on a V6 MDX includes the belt. The 2026 MDX fact sheet lists "No scheduled tune-ups required for 100,000 +/- miles" for both engines.
Acura's 2025 MDX guide adds a severe-use rule: if you regularly drive in temperatures over 110 or below minus 20 degrees Fahrenheit, or while towing a trailer, replace the belt every 60,000 miles. Acura draws that heat line at 110 degrees, so ask the service team whether your own driving and towing fit the rule.
- Maintenance Minder sub-item 4 covers the belt, shown with code A or B
- Normal driving: the Minder sets the timing
- 2025 MDX severe use: replace every 60,000 miles
- Severe use: regular driving over 110 F or under minus 20 F, or towing
- 2026 MDX: no scheduled tune-ups for 100,000 +/- miles
Service Specials
What a Timing Belt Service Includes V
On the 2025 MDX, sub-item 4 groups three jobs: replace the spark plugs, inspect valve clearance on the 3.5L engine, and replace the timing belt and inspect the water pump. Acura's wording for the water pump is inspect, not replace, so ask the advisor what the inspection finds before you approve any pump work.
The valve clearance check applies to the 3.5L, while the 3.0L Turbo V6 uses hydraulic lash adjusters. Acura's 2022 MDX press kit described the 3.5L's first tune-up the same way: water pump inspection, valve adjustment, a new camshaft timing belt and new spark plugs. Inspecting the accessory drive belt is a separate Minder item, sub-item 2.
- Replace timing belt and inspect water pump
- Replace spark plugs
- Inspect valve clearance on the 3.5L V6
- 3.0L Turbo V6: hydraulic lash adjusters
- Accessory drive belt inspection: sub-item 2
Why Service Here
Timing Belt Service at Jenkins Acura V
Book belt work through the online scheduler and note the Minder code on your dash. Acura Accelerated Service at the store covers A1 and B1 visits with codes 2, 3 and 6, and sub-item 4 is not on that list, so choose a standard service appointment for belt work. Certified technicians and genuine OEM parts are on the store's amenities list.
Check the service specials page before you book, since the store has carried a routine timing belt maintenance coupon there. Service and parts financing through Sunbit can spread out the cost of a larger job, and because belt work keeps the car longer than an oil change, ask whether one of the loaner cars on the amenities list is free that day.
- Schedule online and mention your Minder code
- Check service specials for a timing belt coupon
- Service and parts financing through Sunbit
- Loaner cars listed among service amenities
- Saturday service hours on the amenities list
Service and Parts Financing