I have a 2002 xj8 - 58,000 miles - and was wondering if / when a timing belt should be replaced?

Many thanks

frank

 

Welcome to the forum! You have posted in the x350 forum, but your question will be better answered by those who own the same body type, which is an x308. I'm sure a mod will move this post over.

As far as timing belts, these cars have timing chains, not belts. Belts in other cars need changed anywhere from 60,000-100,000 miles. Timing chains typically last much longer before needing replaced. What you will need to keep an eye on instead on your car will be the timing chain tensioners. Those are known to wear out or fail.

 

You should have the 4.0L V-8 and it's critical to change the timing tensioners because they will fail and when they do it most likely will destroy your engine. Valves hitting pistons.

Do you know if they have been changed?
Have you checked to see if you have the current 3rd generation tensioners installed?

Many, Many threads on this problem.
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Hi Many Thanks for getting back to me. It is the 3.2 engine in it. Done 59,000. Running well with no problems....someone mentioned to me that I might like to think about having it replaced. Sounds expensive tho!!

Any thoughts?

Frank