2022 Toyota Highlander Timing Belt Replacement: Tools, Steps, and What To Check First

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Quick Answer

The 2022 Toyota Highlander does not use a rubber timing belt—both the 3.5L V6 gas and 2.5L hybrid four-cylinder models are equipped with a durable timing chain (often confused with a belt). For timing chain replacement on the 3.5L V6 model:

1. Prep the vehicle: Disconnect the battery, drain oil/coolant, and remove front-end accessories.
2. Access the timing system: Remove the timing cover and set the engine to Top Dead Center (TDC).
3. Replace components: Install a new OEM-equivalent timing chain kit (chain, tensioner, guides) aligned with factory timing marks.
4. Reassemble and test: Refill fluids, start the engine, and verify no leaks or misfires. Critical note: Always confirm exact torque specs (e.g., crankshaft pulley bolt ~192 ft-lbs) via the official Toyota service manual to avoid engine damage.

Before You Start

1. Confirm Engine Type: This guide applies to the 2022 Highlander 3.5L V6 (engine code 2GR-FKS). Hybrid 2.5L models require specialized steps—consult the OEM service manual.
2. Mileage & Symptoms: Timing chains typically last 100k–150k miles, but inspect at 90k miles for:
   • Rattling noise on cold startup
   • Check Engine Light (CEL) with codes P0016/P0017 (camshaft/crankshaft misalignment)
   • Reduced engine performance or misfires
3. Gather Resources: Obtain the official Toyota service manual (via Toyota’s website or Chilton) for model-specific torque specs and timing marks.
4. Workspace: Ensure a clean, well-lit area with enough space to lay out tools and parts.

Tools and Parts

Required Tools

• 10mm, 12mm, 14mm, 17mm, 19mm socket set (deep and standard)
• 3/8” and 1/2” drive torque wrench
• Serpentine belt tensioner tool
• Crankshaft pulley holder tool
• Breaker bar
• Timing light
• Pulley puller (if needed)
• Seal installer
• Gasket scraper
• Jack and jack stands
• Drain pans (for oil and coolant)
• Ratchet extensions and universal joints
• Pry bar
• OBD-II scanner

Recommended Parts

• OEM Timing Chain Kit: Toyota part number 13506-0P010 (includes chain, tensioner, guides, and sprockets) or reputable aftermarket brand like Aisin.
• Timing cover gasket and crankshaft seal
• Engine oil (5W-30, 6 quarts) and oil filter
• Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
• RTV sealant (if recommended by the kit)

Step-by-Step Timing Chain Replacement (3.5L V6)

1. Disconnect the Battery: Remove the negative terminal with a 10mm socket to prevent electrical shorts.
2. Drain Fluids:
   • Place a pan under the oil pan, remove the 17mm oil plug, and drain engine oil.
   • Drain coolant by removing the lower radiator hose (use a pan to catch fluid).
3. Remove Front-End Accessories:
   • Use a belt tensioner tool to loosen and remove the serpentine belt.
   • Unbolt the alternator (12mm/14mm sockets), power steering pump (14mm socket), and air intake duct.
4. Remove the Timing Cover:
   • Use a breaker bar and 19mm socket to remove the crankshaft pulley (hold the crankshaft in place with a pulley holder).
   • Remove all timing cover bolts (10mm/12mm sockets) and gently pry the cover off. Scrape old gasket material from the engine block and cover.
5. Set Engine to TDC:
   • Align the TDC mark on the crankshaft sprocket with the pointer on the engine block.
   • Ensure camshaft sprocket marks match the timing cover’s reference marks (confirm exact positions in the service manual).
6. Remove Old Components:
   • Press the timing chain tensioner plunger and lock it with a pin (supplied in most kits).
   • Remove the tensioner, chain guides, and old timing chain. Inspect sprockets for wear—replace if damaged.
7. Install New Components:
   • Bolt new timing chain guides to the engine block, torquing bolts to OEM specs (typically 18–22 ft-lbs; confirm via manual).
   • Thread the new chain onto the crankshaft and camshaft sprockets, aligning all timing marks precisely.
   • Install the new tensioner and remove the locking pin to apply chain tension.
8. Reassemble the Timing Cover:
   • Install a new gasket and crankshaft seal (use RTV sealant if required).
   • Reattach the timing cover and torque bolts in a crisscross pattern to 8–10 ft-lbs (confirm spec).
   • Reinstall the crankshaft pulley and torque the bolt to ~192 ft-lbs (exact spec varies—check manual).
9. Reinstall Accessories:
   • Reattach the power steering pump, alternator, and serpentine belt.
   • Replace the air intake duct.
10. Refill Fluids:
    • Add fresh 5W-30 oil and replace the oil filter.
    • Refill coolant with a 50/50 mix of Toyota coolant and distilled water.
11. Test the Engine:
    • Reconnect the battery and start the engine. Listen for unusual noises (rattling, ticking) and check for leaks.
    • Use a timing light to verify timing alignment, and clear any CEL codes with an OBD-II scanner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrect TDC Alignment: Failing to set the engine to TDC properly can cause catastrophic engine damage.
2. Not Locking the Tensioner: Forgetting to lock the tensioner before installation leads to slack in the chain and misalignment.
3. Reusing Old Components: Never reuse the tensioner or guides—they wear out with the chain and will fail prematurely.
4. Overtightening Bolts: Over-torquing timing cover or crankshaft pulley bolts can crack the cover or strip threads.
5. Skipping Seal Replacement: Neglecting to replace the crankshaft seal often leads to oil leaks post-repair.

Fitment or Diagnostic Notes

• Fitment: This guide is exclusive to the 2022 Toyota Highlander 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS engine). Hybrid 2.5L (A25A-FXS) models require specialized tools and steps—always consult the OEM manual.
• Torque Specs: Exact torque values for bolts (e.g., camshaft sprocket bolts, tensioner bolts) vary by component. Never rely on generic specs—verify with the official Toyota service manual.
• Diagnostics: If you’re unsure whether the chain needs replacement, use an OBD-II scanner to check for camshaft position codes, or have a professional inspect chain slack via the timing cover access port.

Safety Precautions

• Always support the vehicle with jack stands (never rely on a hydraulic jack alone) when working under it.
• Wear safety glasses to protect against flying debris and gloves to avoid cuts or burns.
• Let the engine cool completely (at least 2 hours) before working to prevent injury from hot fluids or components.
• Disconnect the negative battery terminal to avoid accidental engine startup during disassembly.
• Keep tools and parts organized to prevent tripping hazards in your workspace.

When To Stop and Call a Professional

• You cannot accurately set the engine to TDC or align timing marks.
• The engine fails to start or runs rough after reassembly (indicates incorrect timing).
• You find damaged crankshaft or camshaft sprockets during disassembly.
• You do not have access to the OEM service manual for torque specs or timing details.
• You lack experience with complex engine disassembly—timing system work requires precision to avoid costly engine damage.