Parts for your 2017 Nissan Pathfinder-Timing belt kit

Timing Belt Kit for the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder

When it comes to the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder, understanding the role and relevance of a timing belt kit is important for anyone who owns or services this vehicle. The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine, known by the engine code VQ35DE. One key detail about this engine is that it does not use a timing belt at all. Instead, it features a timing chain system.

Timing chains and timing belts serve a similar function in an engine but are quite different in construction and maintenance requirements. A timing belt kit typically includes the belt itself, tensioners, idler pulleys, and sometimes a water pump or seals, depending on the vehicle. These components work together to synchronise the camshaft and crankshaft rotation, ensuring valves open and close at the right time during the engine's combustion cycle.

Because the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder uses a timing chain, a timing belt kit is not relevant and is not used on this vehicle. Timing chains are made of metal and are designed to last much longer than rubber timing belts. They are housed inside the engine, lubricated by engine oil, which reduces wear and the need for frequent replacement.

So why doesn't the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder use a timing belt? Timing chains offer several advantages over belts:

• Durability: Timing chains are generally more robust and can last the life of the engine if properly maintained.
• Maintenance: Chains don't require routine replacement like timing belts do, removing the need for a timing belt kit replacement interval.
• Performance: Chains handle higher stress and heat better than belts, which makes them a good match for powerful V6 engines like the one in the Pathfinder.

That said, timing chains are not completely maintenance-free. Over time and many kilometres, the chain can stretch, tensioners can wear out, and guides can break, which can cause noisy operation or, in worst cases, timing issues that affect engine performance or even cause serious damage. But these issues generally occur far later in the lifespan of the vehicle compared to timing belts.

For owners of the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder, servicing advice focuses more on regular oil changes and engine maintenance rather than timing belt kit replacement. Good engine oil helps keep the timing chain lubricated, reducing wear and extending its life. Nissan's maintenance schedule will provide guidance on when to inspect the chain or its components, but typically, unlike timing belts, these parts don't have a fixed replacement interval.

Here's what owners should keep in mind instead:

• Stick to regular oil changes using the recommended oil grade and service intervals.
• Pay attention to unusual engine noises such as rattling from the front of the engine, which might indicate timing chain or tensioner wear.
• Have a qualified mechanic inspect the timing chain, guides, and tensioner if the vehicle has high kilometres or if there are symptoms like rough running or check engine lights.

Since a timing belt kit isn't part of the maintenance routine for the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder, owners don't need to worry about replacing belts, pulleys, tensioners, or water pumps as a bundled service item. This can be a cost saver and a convenience, especially in comparison to vehicles that require timing belt kit servicing at regular intervals, usually between 90,000 and 160,000 kilometres.

In short, the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder's use of a timing chain over a timing belt means that a timing belt kit is simply not a part you would look for or service on this model. Focus remains on keeping the engine oil in good condition and watching for signs of timing chain wear, which is much less frequent but still important to address if it arises.