Subaru Engines: Timing Belts or Chains
Subaru engines have traditionally used timing belts in their engines, although some newer models have started using timing chains instead. The specific type of timing mechanism used in a Subaru engine can depend on the model and year.
Since 2013, all Subaru engines have been equipped with timing chains rather than belts, except for the high-performance Subaru WRX and WRX STI. The WRX got one more year with a timing belt in 2014, and the WRX STI still uses a timing belt to this day.
The Subaru Forester has spanned two generations of engines. The first generation, from 1997 to 2011, used the EJ series of engines with a timing belt. The fourth generation, from 2013 onwards, uses the FB series of engines with a timing chain.
It’s important to note that timing belts require replacement at certain maintenance intervals, while timing chains do not require replacement. However, some rare occasions may require repair or replacement of a timing chain.
In summary, Subaru engines have used both timing belts and timing chains, depending on the model and year. It is recommended to check the specific model and year of your Subaru vehicle to determine whether it has a timing belt or timing chain [[5]].
Contents
- How often does a Subaru need a timing belt?
- Do Subaru AWD need chains?
- Which Subaru have timing chains?
- Will a timing belt last 200000 miles?
- Do Subaru timing chains need to be replaced?
- How much does it cost to replace a Subaru timing belt?
- Can a timing chain last 300000 miles?
- Do Subarus have timing chain issues?
- How long does a Subaru timing chain last?
- What year did Subaru stop using timing belt?
How often does a Subaru need a timing belt?
105,000 miles
Timing belt replacements:
Subaru timing belts need to be replaced after seven years or 105,000 miles; whichever comes first. Replacement cost starts at $530 (will vary by model)
Do Subaru AWD need chains?
The simple answer: no. Due to Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, adding snow chains to your tires is not necessary, nor recommended. Many of Subaru’s vehicle manuals explicitly state that snow chains are not recommended.
Which Subaru have timing chains?
If you have a Subaru Outback, Forester or other non-STI vehicle from the 2014 model year or newer, your car is equipped with a timing chain that doesn’t need regular maintenance. However, if your Subaru model is older than that, you may have a timing belt under the hood.
Will a timing belt last 200000 miles?
The best guide would be the car handbook to see what the manufacturer mileage recommendations are. It is safer to replace the timing belt even earlier than the manufacturer recommends. In general, however, timing belts needs to be replaced from 60,000 miles up to 150,000 miles.
Do Subaru timing chains need to be replaced?
A chain will normally last for the life of the engine. Timing belts need to be replaced as recommended by the car manufacturer.
How much does it cost to replace a Subaru timing belt?
Shopping around to get a few quotes is your best bet to get the best deal, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $409 to $919 (including parts and labor). Have a timing chain instead of a timing belt? Lucky you, because they can actually last the lifetime of your car.
Can a timing chain last 300000 miles?
However, the timing chain isn’t necessarily a maintenance item and can last the engine’s life, provided you change the oil regularly and maintain the rest of the engine. Modern engines can last 300,000 miles or more with proper maintenance, and the timing chain can go that long, too.
Do Subarus have timing chain issues?
All Subaru sold in the USA after 2005 have an “Interference” engine. Therefore, if the timing belt or timing chain breaks or jumps timing, it can cause bent valves and possibly dinged pistons in the engine, thus resulting in expensive repairs. If you have an older car, some model were Interference and others not.
How long does a Subaru timing chain last?
A timing chain is bulkier and louder; however, it does not require replacement. Though a repair might be necessary in some rare occasions, most timing chains last for the entire life of the engine.
What year did Subaru stop using timing belt?
Simply, then, a 1997 to 2011 Forester will have a timing belt, while any of the fourth-gen Foresters (from 2013 or later) will have a timing chain.