Is the Tiggo 3 engine equipped with a timing belt or chain?
3 Answers
The Chery Tiggo 3 engine uses a timing chain, which is produced by the Chery Engine Factory in Wuhu, Anhui, and is a domestically manufactured engine. The 1.5T version of the Chery Tiggo 3 has an engine model SQRE4G15C, with a maximum power of 115kw, maximum torque of 230 Nm, and maximum horsepower of 156. The 1.5L version has an engine model SQRE4G16, with a maximum power of 85kw, maximum torque of 143 Nm, and maximum horsepower of 116. For daily maintenance of the Chery Tiggo 3 engine, the following methods can be used: Use lubricating oil of the appropriate quality grade. For gasoline engines, select SD--SF grade gasoline engine oil based on the additional devices of the intake and exhaust systems and usage conditions; for diesel engines, select CB--CD grade diesel engine oil according to the mechanical load, with the selection standard not lower than the manufacturer's requirements. Regularly change the oil and filter. The quality of any grade of lubricating oil will change during use. After a certain mileage, performance deteriorates, leading to various engine problems. To avoid malfunctions, change the oil regularly based on usage conditions and maintain an appropriate oil level. When oil passes through the fine holes of the filter, solid particles and viscous substances in the oil accumulate in the filter. If the filter is blocked and oil cannot pass through, the filter may burst or the safety valve may open, allowing oil to bypass through the bypass valve and carry contaminants back to the lubrication area, accelerating engine wear and increasing internal pollution. Regularly clean the crankcase. During engine operation, high-pressure unburned gases, acids, moisture, sulfur, and nitrogen oxides from the combustion chamber enter the crankcase through the gap between the piston rings and cylinder walls, mixing with metal powder from part wear to form sludge. Small amounts remain suspended in the oil, while larger amounts precipitate, clogging filters and oil passages, making engine lubrication difficult and causing wear. Regularly use a radiator cleaner to clean the radiator. Removing rust and scale not only ensures the engine operates normally but also extends the overall lifespan of the radiator and engine.
I've been repairing cars for many years. The engine in the Tiggo 3, like that 1.6L DVVT model, uses a timing chain instead of a belt. The advantage of the chain is that it's extremely durable and basically doesn't require regular replacement, unlike belts which need to be changed every 50,000 to 60,000 kilometers, costing both money and effort. Timing chains have strong heat resistance, are less prone to aging under oil contamination, and won't cause issues when driving on bumpy roads, saving a lot on maintenance costs. I remember a customer who drove a Tiggo 3 for over ten years without ever needing to touch the chain, with the engine running smoothly and providing a stable driving experience. In contrast, neglecting belt replacement can lead to chain reactions of failures, such as valve damage, which would be a major headache. During routine maintenance, just check the chain tension—it's almost effortless and, in the long run, reliable and cost-effective.
I've been driving my Tiggo 3 for over three years now. When I bought it, I specifically checked the information, and the engine indeed features a timing chain design. What puts my mind at ease most about the chain is its maintenance-free nature—no need to shell out hundreds every few years at the repair shop for replacements like with belts. The chain operates quietly during daily drives, with minimal engine noise, making both city commutes and long highway trips smooth. Its sturdy material withstands various temperatures, eliminating much worry. Compared to my friends' belt-driven cars, I don't have to frequent maintenance shops, saving time, money, and being more eco-friendly by reducing waste. The reliability of the chain system enhances the vehicle's overall performance. Occasionally, a DIY lubrication does the trick, and the manual highlights it as standard equipment—making this car a cost-effective choice.
