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lou’s garage

I have a 2016 Honda Civic with 74k on it (98-per-cent highway) and a 2017 Toyota Rav4 Hybrid with 7k on it. Do I have to worry about timing belts on either of these vehicles? – Josh

When do I need to replace the timing belt on my 2011 Kia Soul with a 2.0-litre engine? My mechanic says his trade manual recommends 144,000 kilometres, but my own car manual says 96,000 km. I'm afraid to drive the car at the moment, as it is at 98,600 km. – Gail

Josh, both your Honda Civic and Toyota Rav4 Hybrid employ timing chains which do not require periodic replacement. In general, timing chains, their related guides and tensioners require a reliable, clean oil supply. Changing your vehicle's oil and filter on time is key to their longevity.

Gail, I have looked up the timing belt intervals for your Kia, and it calls for a timing belt inspection at 96,000 km and replacement at 144,000. The maintenance guidelines do not offer an age versus mileage number, but generally, most manufacturers suggest that a timing belt not exceed eight years and optimally be changed at five years. If you are worried about it, then change it sooner rather than later, but you don't need to panic, as failure this early is extremely rare.

Lou Trottier is owner-operator of All About Imports in Mississauga. Have a question about maintenance and repair? E-mail globedrive@globeandmail.com, placing "Lou's Garage" in the subject line.

Toyota’s Mirai hydrogen fuel cell cars will make their Canadian debut in Quebec this year. Provincial Energy Minister Pierre Moreau says two stations to produce and supply the fuel will open in the fall.

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