Yes it is driven by a belt. Not sure of the recommended interval for this off hand but most manufacturers specify between 80 and 100 thousand miles or every 5-6 years.
However, I have seen belts snap as low as 30,000 miles on occasion. As a former motor mechanic, I wouldn't keep a belt on my car longer than 5 years or 40,000 miles. The cost of a new belt is very small compared to the damage that is done to the engine if it fails. Whenever I change my car, I always change the belt, regardless of the mileage or age as you just don't know if the belt has been changed before or if it has, whether a quality belt has been used or if it has been damaged during fitting which is easily done.
And don't skimp on a cheap belt, make sure to put a good quality one on, it's just not worth the risk.
DaveCoaches: When you say don't put a cheap timing belt on, I was told recently by a motor mechanic that the majority of timing belts (including what the main dealers fit) are manufactured by Gates. Is this true?
ours is a 2004 santa f'e 2.7 V6 and the timing belt was a 40,000 mile or 5 year service.had mine changed at the 5 year mark.there are cheap imitations out there.
------------- the only silly question is the one you do not ask.
Gates are a pretty good belt and do make belts for a lot of the manufacturers, not sure about Hyundai though. I would be very weary of a lot of the ones you see in some less scrupulous car accessory shops or on eBay. I have seen some that despite being the correct length and having the right number of teeth are significantly narrower and thinner than the originals. I would avoid those like the plague.
If you look on eBay, you will see belts for £12. I wouldn't even consider them when you think of the damage that occurs if they snap. You won't go far wrong with Gates though I've used them many times and never had a problem with one.
Iv had four hyundais at the moment i have a terracan and a santafe get a cam belt kit thats a belt and pullies they are guaranteed bit more money but better than a new engine