Parts Guide
TIMING BELT Kia Picanto · PARTS GUIDE

Kia Picanto Timing Belt: Intervals, Fitment & Warning Signs

On the Picanto, worth knowing as context: a real recall covers connecting rod bearing failure on the Theta II and Nu GDI engines used in Kia's larger models.

Illustration of a timing belt and pulleys Illustration for editorial purposes

OEM Part Number: 24312-02701

Accuracy note: genuinely important to know: current-generation i10/Picanto (Kappa engine family, G3LA/G4LA) actually use a timing chain, not a belt — a real, meaningful difference from the older Atos-era i10/Picanto, which did use a genuine belt. Confirm your exact engine before assuming either applies.
Older Atos-era engine (1.0/1.1L, G4HC/G4HD/G4HG), genuine beltHyundai/Kia OEM: 24312-02701
Current Kappa-generation (G3LA/G4LA)Timing chain, not a belt — no scheduled interval, periodic inspection instead

A Genuinely Useful Piece of Context Worth Knowing About Kia's Engine History — Kia Picanto Timing Belt

If you're cross-shopping against a larger Kia with a Theta II or Nu GDI engine, or considering a used one from the same range, this is genuinely worth knowing: Kia issued a confirmed recall covering the Sorento, Sportage, and Soul, among others, addressing machining errors during engine manufacture that left metal debris in the oil passages — capable of eventually scoring the connecting rod bearings and causing the engine to seize. This doesn't directly affect the smaller engines used in this specific model, but is worth knowing as general context on a genuine, documented reliability issue within Kia's wider range.

Worth knowing about the genuine safety feature Kia introduced in response: the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software update uses the knock sensor to also monitor for bearing knock specifically, putting an affected engine into a protective, limited-speed safe mode if a developing problem is detected — worth being aware of as a data point on how Kia has handled a serious engine reliability issue previously.

It's also worth knowing that using a full synthetic oil of the correct specification, and staying on top of oil changes rather than extending intervals, is a genuinely sound habit for any engine, worth building into your routine regardless of which specific Kia you own.

The Part Where Missing a Deadline Gets Expensive

Few maintenance items carry as much downside risk for skipping them. On the engines where this component fails, the consequences typically extend well beyond the part itself, which is exactly why sticking to the schedule matters more here than almost anywhere else on the car.

Kia Picanto Timing Belt reference plate
Before you buy: some engines in the Picanto range use a timing belt, others use a timing chain with different maintenance needs entirely. Always confirm which system your specific engine uses via your VIN before assuming a service interval.

What It Does

The timing belt or chain keeps the engine's camshafts and crankshaft rotating in precise synchronisation, ensuring valves open and close at exactly the right moment relative to piston position. On many engines, this is what's known as an "interference" design — if the belt fails, the pistons and valves can collide, causing serious internal engine damage.

Generations & Engines: Belt or Chain

SA (2004–2011), Atos-era petrolTiming belt — conventional dry belt
TA/JA (2011–present), Kappa 1.0/1.25 petrol (G3LA/G4LA), incl. GT-LineTiming chain — see confirmation above

Shop for This Part on eBay

Timing Belt & Water Pump Kit fits KIA PICANTO SA 1.0 04 to 11 G4HE Set INA New Timing Belt & Water Pump Kit fits KIA PICANTO SA 1.0 04 to 11 G4HE Set INA New GBP 67.27 KIA PICANTO TIMING BELT COVER KIA PICANTO TIMING BELT COVER GBP 150.00 Timing Belt Kit fits KIA PICANTO SA 1.1 04 to 11 G4HG Set 2431202270 Febi New Timing Belt Kit fits KIA PICANTO SA 1.1 04 to 11 G4HG Set 2431202270 Febi New GBP 30.81 Timing Belt Cover For Hyundai i10 2007-2013 Getz 2004-2010 Kia Picanto (Morning) Timing Belt Cover For Hyundai i10 2007-2013 Getz 2004-2010 Kia Picanto (Morning) GBP 19.19 TIMING CAM BELT KIT WATER PUMP TENSIONER PULLEY FOR KIA PICANTO 1.0 + 1.1 04-11 TIMING CAM BELT KIT WATER PUMP TENSIONER PULLEY FOR KIA PICANTO 1.0 + 1.1 04-11 GBP 82.95 G4HC G4HD Timing Belt 101 Teeth for Hyundai 1.0 1.1 i10 Getz Amica Kia Picanto G4HC G4HD Timing Belt 101 Teeth for Hyundai 1.0 1.1 i10 Getz Amica Kia Picanto GBP 20.49 Timing Belt Fits KIA PICANTO SA 1.0 1.1 D48E Timing Belt Fits KIA PICANTO SA 1.0 1.1 D48E GBP 30.07 Timing Cam Belt Kit BGA Fits Hyundai Getz Amica Kia Picanto 1.0 1.2 2441002550 Timing Cam Belt Kit BGA Fits Hyundai Getz Amica Kia Picanto 1.0 1.2 2441002550 GBP 29.65

As an eBay Partner, Car United may earn commission from qualifying purchases shown above. Listings and pricing are pulled live from eBay and may vary.

Watch: Chain Tensioner Replacement (Not a Routine Job)

🎬 Watch: Hyundai/Kia Nu/Theta engine timing chain tensioner replacement

Watch on YouTube ↗

Since this is a chain, not a scheduled belt job, this video is only relevant if you're diagnosing or responding to symptoms of tensioner wear.

Warning Signs, DIY Difficulty & Aftermarket Advice

These are the same regardless of make or model — see our full Timing Belt Guide for symptoms to watch for, confirming fitment against your VIN, and which aftermarket brands are worth trusting.

Read our full Kia Picanto review

More Kia Timing Belt

The same part, covered across other Kia models.