The Lexus RX 350 is a luxury crossover SUV sold in the U.S. market from the 2007 through 2026 model years. It was produced across four platform generations and powered by two distinct engine types across its full production span.
Timing system identification matters before scheduling service or evaluating a used vehicle. The RX 350 transitioned from a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 to a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder for the 2023 model year, which changed the engine code, oil specifications, and service references.
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Does the Lexus RX 350 Have a Timing Belt or Timing Chain?
All Lexus RX 350 models from 2007 to 2026 use a timing chain. No U.S.-market trim or model year was equipped with a timing belt. Always verify by engine code and model year before scheduling service.
2026 Lexus RX 350 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option | 2.4L Turbo I4 (T24A-FTS) |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement interval |
| Maintenance Notes | Same timing system as previous model year. Turbocharged application requires consistent oil maintenance to protect chain components. |
The 2026 RX 350 continues with the T24A-FTS turbocharged four-cylinder introduced in 2023. This engine uses a roller timing chain with no factory-scheduled replacement interval in the U.S. market.
2025 Lexus RX 350 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option | 2.4L Turbo I4 (T24A-FTS) |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement interval |
| Maintenance Notes | Same timing system as previous model year. Oil quality and change frequency are especially important on turbocharged applications. |
No timing chain replacement interval is specified by Lexus for the 2025 RX 350. The chain is rated for the engine’s lifetime, but the turbocharged T24A-FTS makes consistent oil maintenance more critical than on naturally aspirated engines.
2024 Lexus RX 350 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option | 2.4L Turbo I4 (T24A-FTS) |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement interval |
| Maintenance Notes | Same timing system as previous model year. T24A-FTS uses a single-row roller timing chain. |
All 2024 RX 350 trims in the U.S. use the T24A-FTS. This 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder replaced the 2GR-FKS V6 in 2023 and continues with a roller timing chain into the 2024 model year.
2023 Lexus RX 350 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option | 2.4L Turbo I4 (T24A-FTS) |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement interval |
| Maintenance Notes | AL30 generation debut. The T24A-FTS replaced the 2GR-FKS V6. Both engines use a timing chain with no scheduled replacement. |
The 2023 model year introduced the AL30 generation and replaced the 2GR-FKS V6 with the T24A-FTS turbocharged four-cylinder. Both engine types use timing chains. No scheduled chain replacement interval was published for either engine.
2022 Lexus RX 350 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option | 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS) |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement interval |
| Maintenance Notes | Final AL20 model year. Same 2GR-FKS chain configuration as prior AL20 years. No timing system changes. |
A timing chain drives camshaft timing on the 2022 RX 350’s 2GR-FKS engine. This was the final model year for the V6-powered AL20 generation before the 2023 powertrain and platform change.
2021 Lexus RX 350 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option | 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS) |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement interval |
| Maintenance Notes | Same timing system as previous model year. No changes to timing components or engine configuration this model year. |
Lexus does not specify a mileage-based replacement schedule for the 2021 RX 350 timing chain. The component is designed for the engine’s lifetime under consistent oil maintenance practices.
2020 Lexus RX 350 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option | 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS) |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement interval |
| Maintenance Notes | Same timing system as previous model year. One engine option offered across all U.S. trims. |
All U.S. trims for the 2020 RX 350 use a single engine option with chain-driven timing. No powertrain or timing system changes were introduced during this model year.
2019 Lexus RX 350 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option | 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS) |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement interval |
| Maintenance Notes | Same timing system as previous model year. Consistent oil maintenance prevents tensioner and guide wear. |
Cold-start rattle on the 2019 RX 350 typically indicates low oil pressure or worn tensioner rather than chain failure. Regular oil service at the correct viscosity prevents most timing-related noise symptoms.
2018 Lexus RX 350 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option | 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS) |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement interval |
| Maintenance Notes | Same timing system as previous model year. No timing belt variant offered on any U.S. trim. |
The 2018 RX 350 uses the 2GR-FKS with a chain-driven timing system. No scheduled replacement is required. Chain performance depends entirely on consistent oil changes at the manufacturer-specified interval.
2017 Lexus RX 350 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option | 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS) |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement interval |
| Maintenance Notes | Same timing system as previous model year. Variable valve timing system relies on consistent oil pressure. |
No timing chain replacement interval is published by Lexus for the 2017 RX 350. Consistent oil changes using the correct viscosity protect chain tensioners, guides, and the VVT-iW variable valve timing system.
2016 Lexus RX 350 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option | 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS) |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement interval |
| Maintenance Notes | AL20 generation debut. The 2GR-FKS replaced the 2GR-FE; both engines use a timing chain. |
The 2016 model year introduced the AL20 generation and replaced the 2GR-FE with the 2GR-FKS. The FKS adds D-4S dual injection and VVT-iW intake timing. Both engine variants use a timing chain.
2015 Lexus RX 350 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option | 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE) |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement interval |
| Maintenance Notes | Final AL10 model year. Same 2GR-FE chain configuration as prior AL10 years. No timing system changes. |
Long-term chain reliability on the 2015 RX 350 depends on oil maintenance consistency. Chain noise after delayed oil changes may indicate tensioner wear requiring professional inspection rather than immediate chain replacement.
2014 Lexus RX 350 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option | 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE) |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement interval |
| Maintenance Notes | Same timing system as previous model year. No scheduled chain replacement interval published for this year. |
The 2014 RX 350 uses the 2GR-FE with chain-driven camshaft timing. No replacement interval is specified. This was the fifth year of the AL10 generation without powertrain configuration changes.
2013 Lexus RX 350 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option | 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE) |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement interval |
| Maintenance Notes | Same timing system as previous model year. Consistent oil changes protect chain guides and tensioners. |
A mileage-based replacement interval for the timing chain is not published by Lexus for the 2013 RX 350. Standard service consists of oil changes at the manufacturer-specified intervals to maintain chain function.
2012 Lexus RX 350 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option | 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE) |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement interval |
| Maintenance Notes | Same timing system as previous model year. Single engine option across all U.S. trims. |
All U.S. market 2012 RX 350 trims used the same 3.5-liter V6 engine with no alternative engine option. No trim was offered with a timing belt or a different timing system configuration.
2011 Lexus RX 350 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option | 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE) |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement interval |
| Maintenance Notes | Same timing system as previous model year. Cold-start rattle that fades quickly is a common chain symptom on aging engines. |
Startup timing chain rattle on the 2011 RX 350 typically fades within seconds of engine startup. Rattle that persists beyond warmup indicates worn tensioners or low oil pressure and warrants a professional inspection.
2010 Lexus RX 350 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option | 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE) |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement interval |
| Maintenance Notes | AL10 generation debut. Timing system unchanged from the prior XU30 generation. No chain replacement required. |
The 2010 model year introduced the AL10 generation with updated styling and features. The 2GR-FE engine and its chain-driven timing system carried over without modification from the prior generation.
2009 Lexus RX 350 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option | 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE) |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement interval |
| Maintenance Notes | Same timing system as previous model year. No changes to timing components or engine configuration. |
Lexus does not publish a scheduled replacement interval for the 2009 RX 350 timing chain. The chain is rated for the engine’s lifetime under proper oil maintenance practices.
2008 Lexus RX 350 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option | 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE) |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement interval |
| Maintenance Notes | Same timing system as previous model year. Regular oil maintenance extends chain and tensioner service life. |
The 2008 RX 350 continues with the same 2GR-FE from the 2007 introduction. No changes were made to the timing system or engine configuration. Oil maintenance is the only scheduled timing-related service.
2007 Lexus RX 350 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option | 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE) |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement interval |
| Maintenance Notes | First model year of the RX 350. The 2GR-FE replaced the 3.3L 3MZ-FE from the prior RX 330 generation. |
The 2007 model year introduced the RX 350 nameplate and the 2GR-FE chain-driven V6 in the U.S. market. The 2GR-FE replaced the 3.3-liter 3MZ-FE that powered the prior RX 330 generation.
Timing Belt vs Timing Chain on the Lexus RX 350
A timing belt is a rubber-reinforced toothed component that synchronizes crankshaft and camshaft rotation. Rubber compounds degrade through heat and age, requiring replacement at a manufacturer-specified mileage interval to prevent failure and potential engine damage.
A timing chain uses metal links to perform the same synchronization function. On the RX 350, the chain operates inside the engine in an oil-bath environment and is designed to remain in service for the life of the engine without scheduled replacement.
Timing belts require service at fixed intervals, typically between 60,000 and 105,000 miles depending on the manufacturer. Timing chains carry no scheduled replacement interval on the RX 350 but require consistent oil changes to prevent chain stretch, tensioner failure, or guide degradation.
Belt replacement typically costs $400 to $900 at an independent shop. A failing timing chain may produce rattling or slapping on cold startup, signaling worn tensioners, stretched links, or low oil pressure that require professional inspection.
Lexus RX 350 Timing System Maintenance
No mileage-based timing chain replacement interval is published by Lexus for any RX 350 model year. The chain in the 2GR-FE, 2GR-FKS, and T24A-FTS engines is rated for the life of the engine under proper maintenance conditions.
Cold-start rattle lasting a few seconds is the most common timing chain symptom on RX 350 engines. Rattle that persists after warmup indicates tensioner wear or low oil pressure and requires professional inspection before the condition worsens.
Both the 2GR-series V6 engines and the T24A-FTS turbo four-cylinder rely on oil pressure to maintain chain tension. The turbocharged T24A-FTS is particularly sensitive to extended oil change intervals, which can accelerate chain and tensioner wear compared to naturally aspirated engines.
Timing chain inspection is appropriate when a check engine light appears alongside startup rattle, or after missed oil changes. Chain replacement on the RX 350 is a labor-intensive procedure that typically requires partial engine disassembly and associated component replacement.
| Timing Belt | Timing Chain |
|---|---|
| Requires scheduled replacement | No scheduled replacement interval |
| Rubber degrades with age and heat | Metal links resist heat and wear longer |
| Replacement typically every 60,000-105,000 miles | Designed for engine lifetime |
| Lower part cost at service | Higher labor cost if replacement is needed |
| Failure risk increases without service | Low failure risk with proper oil maintenance |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Lexus RX 350 have a timing belt or timing chain?
All Lexus RX 350 models from 2007 to 2026 use a timing chain. No U.S.-market trim or model year was equipped with a timing belt.
Does the Lexus RX 350 timing chain need replacement?
Lexus does not publish a mileage-based replacement interval for the RX 350 timing chain. It is rated for the engine’s lifetime with consistent oil maintenance.
Is the Lexus RX 350 an interference engine?
Yes. All RX 350 engines from 2007 to 2026, including the 2GR-FE, 2GR-FKS, and T24A-FTS, are interference engines. A chain failure can result in piston-to-valve contact.
When did the Lexus RX 350 change engines?
The RX 350 used a 3.5L V6 from 2007 to 2022, transitioning from the 2GR-FE to the 2GR-FKS in 2016. The 2023 model year introduced the 2.4L turbocharged T24A-FTS four-cylinder.
What are the symptoms of a failing timing chain on a Lexus RX 350?
A cold-start rattle that persists after warmup is the primary symptom. It may indicate stretched chain links, worn tensioners, or low oil pressure requiring inspection.
How much does timing chain replacement cost on a Lexus RX 350?
Timing chain replacement typically costs $1,500 to $2,800 at an independent shop, depending on model year, engine type, and the extent of associated component replacement.
Conclusion
The Lexus RX 350 used a timing chain across all U.S. model years from 2007 to 2026. Two engine transitions occurred: from 2GR-FE to 2GR-FKS in 2016, and from the naturally aspirated V6 to the turbocharged T24A-FTS in 2023.
Oil maintenance is the primary timing system requirement for all RX 350 model years. No mileage-based chain replacement is scheduled, but persistent startup noise or camshaft timing fault codes should prompt a professional inspection before conditions worsen.
Always verify timing system details using the owner’s manual or manufacturer service information before scheduling repairs.
