How do I know if my Subaru needs a new timing belt?

How to Determine if Your Subaru Needs a New Timing Belt
To determine if your Subaru needs a new timing belt, there are a few factors to consider. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Check the Model Year: If your Subaru came off the assembly line within the past few years, it likely comes with a timing chain instead of a timing belt. Timing chains are more durable and do not require regular maintenance like timing belts.
2. Refer to the Owner’s Manual: The recommended timing belt replacement interval can vary depending on the model and year of your Subaru. It is best to check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
3. Mileage Interval: The mileage interval for timing belt replacement can range from 60,000 to 105,000 miles, depending on the model and year of your Subaru . Some Subaru models recommend replacement at 105,000 miles, while others may require replacement at earlier intervals. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
4. Inspect for Signs of Wear: Regularly inspect the timing belt for any visible signs of wear or damage. If you notice any cracks, fraying, or stretching, it is a good indication that the timing belt needs to be replaced.
5. Consider the Age of the Timing Belt: Timing belts degrade over time, even with low mileage. If your Subaru is approaching the recommended replacement interval or if the timing belt is more than 10 years old, it is advisable to have it replaced.
6. Listen for Unusual Noises: If you hear any unusual noises coming from the engine, such as squealing or rattling, it could be a sign of a worn-out timing belt.
7. Consult a Professional: If you are unsure about the condition of your Subaru’s timing belt, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic or visit a Subaru service center for an inspection.
Remember, the timing belt plays a crucial role in the proper functioning of the engine, and failure to replace it when necessary can lead to serious engine damage. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and have the timing belt replaced at the recommended intervals.
I hope this information helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.

Is there a warning before a timing chain breaks?

Signs of a Bad Timing Chain
Misfiring, poor idle, and rough running could mean the chain has jumped a tooth and the timing is off. Replacement is urgent, because the chain could break at any point, and the engine could be damaged from incorrect valve timing.

How do you check if timing belt needs replacing?

How to Tell If Your Car Needs a New Timing Belt

1. Misfiring Engine. Your car’s engine is impacted negatively by a worn-out timing belt.
2. Ticking Noises from Engine. A worn-out timing belt can cause weird ticking sounds from within the engine.
3. Weird Squealing Noises.
4. Engine Not Running.

How much does it cost to replace a timing belt on a Subaru?

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.

What year did Subaru stop using timing belt?

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.

Is there a way to inspect a timing belt?

Take the cover off
With it removed, you’re looking for frayed edges or damage, perhaps worn teeth on the inside of the belt. If the rubber looks to be shiny or marbled, that’s another sign it’s getting old, along with signs of cracking within the rubber.

How do I know if my timing belt is off without removing it?

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Timing Belt

1. You Hear A Ticking Noise Coming From The Engine.
2. Your Car’s Engine Won’t Turn Over.
3. You Notice An Oil Leak Near The Motor.
4. You Experience Exhaust Issues.
5. Your Revs Start Acting Up.

How long do Subaru timing belts last?

seven years
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)

Can you visually check a timing belt?

Visual Check
If it is becoming worn, the belt will appear to look glazed or glossy on the underside. This means the rubber is getting hard and will not provide the flexibility the belt needs. Some signs are much more obvious, such as cracking or fraying. Belts with that kind of damage should be replaced immediately.

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.

What are symptoms of a timing chain going bad on a Subaru?

Signs of a Faulty or Failing Timing Chain
One of the most common signs of a faulty timing chain is a rattling sound when you start the engine, let it idle, or brake. That rattle is a loose chain banging against the housing it’s in, indicating the chain is stretched beyond what it should be.