The whole timing marks vs the timing tool is intersting to me.
Before I started college having done one cambelt job on my play car, I assumed that every engine irrespective of type (SOHC, DOHC) would have to have a timing tool kit.
Manufacturers are just trying to make auto mechanic's life hard. This is what they are thinking about every day and night. They are very creative.
"Let us make mechanics buy $300 special tool kit"
"Let us save $3 on transmission dipstick"
I could check engine codes by turning key 3 times on my 97 Jeep Cherokee. The only difference between 97 and 98 is that you cannot get codes w/o code reader on 98.
I think quite the opposite tbh.
The omega drive by wire engines have the pedal trick. Something gm introduced as a get by in the absence of tech2. Not all country's are as we'll off to afford dealer prices and back up.
I consider the timing marks on the rear cam belt cover to be the mechanics equivalent of the pedal trick, a sort of get by, again, in the absence of the proper factory kit.
Once you've used a locking kit, and indeed tech2, you'll realise the advantages of both.
They save a great deal of time, and accuracy in set up and use generally.
You pays your money...