Rx400H - Is It An Interference Engine?

[debmalya]

Hello folks

What type of engine does the RX400h have - is it an interference engine or a free running engine? Also, does it have a timing belt or chain?

[JimH2]

Looks like it has a timing belt:

http://www.drivewire.com/vehicle/2008-lexus-rx400/timing-belt-kit/

[lemon]

Yes, it's an interference engine. Apparently not all that common in Toyota's. So don't delay on timing belt maintenance. By the way, you can have a timing belt and a non interference engine.

[debmalya]

Thanks for your replies. I beleive the RX400h uses the Toyota 3MZ-FE engine http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_MZ_engine. I was not able to find out if this engine is interference or free running. I vaguely remember reading some where that Toyota's policy is to use chains in interference engines and belts/chains in free running engines. I now know that this engine uses a belt and recommended replacement is at 90000 miles or 96 months, both far in my case. Thanks for your inputs.