The Honda Accord Timing Belt Replacement Cost can vary quite a bit depending on the year and model of your vehicle. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide an overview of Accord timing belt information and break down estimated replacement costs.

When To Replace The Timing Belt?

The timing belt is a crucial engine component that keeps the crankshaft and camshaft rotating in sync. If the belt breaks, the engine can be severely damaged.

Honda recommends replacing the Accord’s timing belt at 60,000 to 105,000 miles, depending on the year and engine. Some models have a timing chain that typically lasts the life of the engine.

Replacing the timing belt is not a small job. The labor time alone is 1.5-5 hours for most Accord models. Let’s take a closer look at what’s involved:

Accessing The Timing Belt

To access the timing belt, your mechanic will need to remove parts like the belt covers, accessory belts, and potentially even supports like the engine mount or subframe.

Timing Belt Replacement Procedure

Once accessible, the old timing belt is removed and the new one installed. The timing must be set correctly, which is a very meticulous process. Often, related components like idler pulleys, tensioners, seals, and water pumps are replaced at the same time.

Additional Recommended Services

Many mechanics recommend replacing the water pump and other accessories while the timing belt is off since the labor is already accounted for in most cases. This can increase costs but reduces future maintenance.

Factors That Affect Honda Accord Timing Belt Replacement Cost

There are several variables that impact the overall timing belt replacement cost:

1. Vehicle Year and Model – Parts and labor times vary. Newer Accords tend to cost more.
2. Engine Type – 4-cylinder vs 6-cylinder models have different belt kits.
3. Mileage and Condition – Higher mileage engines take longer to service. Poor engine condition increases costs.
4. Location – Labor rates and part prices differ by region. Dealerships cost more than independent shops.
5. Additional Repairs – Replacing water pump, tensioner, pulleys, etc adds cost.

Now let’s take a closer look at estimated costs based on Accord generation and common engine types.

Honda Accord Timing Belt Replacement Cost by Generation

Below are typical parts and labor costs for changing the timing belt on different Accord generations:

1976-1981 – First Generation

The first generation Accord used simple SOHC engines with timing belts. Belt replacement costs typically run:

1. Parts: $75-$150
2. Labor: 1.5-3 hours ($120-$240 at $80/hr shop rate)
3. Total: Approximately $200-$400

1982-1985 – Second Generation

The second gen Accord had similar SOHC engines to the first generation models. Plan on belt replacement costs around:

1. Parts: $100-$175
2. Labor: 2-4 hours ($160-$320)
3. Total: Approximately $260-$500

1986-1989 – Third Generation

The 3rd generation saw the introduction of DOHC engines. Timing belt replacement costs are a bit higher:

1. Parts: $130-$220
2. Labor: 3-5 hours ($240-$400)
3. Total: Approximately $370-$620

1990-1993 – Fourth Generation

The 4th gen Accord timing belt replacement typically runs:

1. Parts: $140-$230
2. Labor: 3-5 hours ($240-$400)
3. Total: Approximately $380-$630

1994-1997 – Fifth Generation

On 5th generation Accords, plan on timing belt replacement costs around:

1. Parts: $160-$250
2. Labor: 4-6 hours ($320-$480)
3. Total: Approximately $480-$730

1998-2002 – Sixth Generation

For the 6th gen Accord, timing belt replacement usually costs:

1. Parts: $180-$280
2. Labor: 5-7 hours ($400-$560)
3. Total: Approximately $580-$840

2003-2007 – Seventh Generation

The 7th generation Accord saw the gradual phase-out of timing belts in favor of timing chains. The 4-cylinder engines still used a belt, while V6 models had a timing chain.

Typical timing belt replacement costs are:

1. Parts: $220-$320
2. Labor: 5-7 hours ($400-$560)
3. Total: Approximately $620-$880

2008-2012 – Eighth Generation

No 8th generation Accords used timing belts – all models came with timing chains instead.

2013-2017 – Ninth Generation

The 9th generation Accord continued using timing chains rather than belts.

Honda Accord Timing Belt Replacement By Engine Type

Here’s a quick look at parts and labor times by engine:

4-Cylinder Engines

Most 4-cylinder Accord models use timing belts. Belt replacement typically costs:

1. Parts: $130-$320
2. Labor: 3-7 hours ($240-$560)
3. Total: $370-$880

V6 Engines

V6 powered Accords often have timing chains, but some 90’s models used belts. For those, plan on:

1. Parts: $140-$260
2. Labor: 4-6 hours ($320-$480)
3. Total: $460-$740

Other Considerations

1. Older high-mileage engines take longer to service, increasing labor time/cost.
2. Water pumps, pulleys, and tensioners are often replaced at the same time.
3. Dealerships are approximately 25% more expensive than independent shops.

Table summarizing Honda Accord timing belt replacement costs by generation:

Timing Belt Or Chain By Accord Engine Type

DIY Honda Accord Timing Belt Replacement

With some mechanical skill and the right tools, you can replace the timing belt yourself and save on labor costs. However, this is an advanced procedure with little margin for error.

Parts will cost around $130-$320 depending on engine and accessories needed. With the right parts and instructions, expect to spend a full day completing the job DIY.

When Should I Replace The Honda Accord Timing Belt?

Follow the factory maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual for timing belt replacement intervals. Most Accords need the belt replaced around 60,000 to 105,000 miles.

Signs that the belt needs replaced include noise from the belt area, issues starting the engine, reduced power, or check engine light. If the belt breaks, severe engine damage can occur.

Summary

To summarize, the Honda Accord timing belt replacement cost can vary widely based on your vehicle’s generation, engine type, mileage, location, and service provider. Typical costs range from $370-$880 when accounting for both parts and professional labor. Following the factory maintenance schedule and replacing your timing belt at the recommended interval (usually 60-105k miles) is crucial to avoid engine damage and costly repairs down the road. Consider having related components like the water pump serviced at the same time to save on future maintenance.

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Ammar Masoud

I have had a long and fulfilling career in the automotive industry, primarily with Honda and Acura. With 15 years of experience as a Honda service technician, I became highly skilled in repair and maintenance, gaining a deep understanding of these vehicles. After many years in the automotive field, I decided to embark on a second career in industrial manufacturing. It was a significant change, but I found that the skills I had honed in the automotive industry were incredibly valuable in my new role. In my current position in industrial manufacturing, the demand for quality workmanship and meticulous attention to detail is paramount. Fortunately, these are traits that I have cultivated throughout my years in the automotive industry. I take pride in applying these skills to meet the high standards expected in the manufacturing sector.

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