Do all Subarus need timing belts replaced?
Not all Subarus require timing belt replacement. Some engines use belts and need periodic changes, while many newer Subarus run on timing chains that don’t have a fixed replacement interval. The exact maintenance depends on the engine family and model year, so always check the owner’s manual or with a dealer to confirm.
A quick history of belt vs chain in Subaru engines
Understanding which powerplant your Subaru uses helps determine maintenance needs and timing.
- Older Subaru engines, notably many EJ-series 2.0L and 2.5L variants, typically used timing belts that require periodic replacement (commonly around 105,000 miles or 7–10 years, whichever comes first).
- From roughly 2010 onward, Subaru introduced and expanded the FA/FB engine families that primarily use timing chains, which do not have a scheduled replacement interval in normal service.
- Turbocharged models and some sportier variants (for example, certain FA/FB configurations used in performance applications) also rely on timing chains, not belts.
- There are exceptions and model-year variations, so always verify your specific engine family and service schedule.
In short, belts require scheduled replacement on older engines, while most newer Subarus rely on timing chains with no routine belt-change interval. Always confirm with the manual or a Subaru technician for your exact model.
How to tell what your Subaru uses
To avoid guessing, confirm whether your engine uses a belt or a chain with these steps.
- Check the owner’s manual or the official service schedule for your model—it will state “timing belt” or “timing chain” and the replacement interval if a belt is used.
- Inspect the engine visually: a timing belt is a rubber belt visible behind a timing-belt cover; a timing chain is enclosed behind a metal cover and not visible without removing the cover.
- Look up your engine code (e.g., EJ25, FA20, FB25) or your vehicle’s VIN to determine the engine family, which reveals belt vs chain design.
- Ask a Subaru dealer or a trusted mechanic with your VIN if you’re unsure.
- Refer to official Subaru bulletins or service databases for your exact year/model for confirmation.
Knowing the exact engine family is the most reliable way to determine whether a belt or chain is involved and what maintenance to plan.
Maintenance implications: belts vs chains
Knowing whether your Subaru uses a belt or a chain guides maintenance planning, budgeting, and risk assessment.
What this means for daily driving
- Belt-driven engines: plan a timing belt replacement around 105,000 miles (range often cited as 100,000–110,000 miles) or 7–10 years, whichever comes first. At the same time, replace the water pump, tensioners, and idlers to avoid future labor costs.
- Chain-driven engines: there is no fixed interval for a timing-chain replacement in normal service. Chains are designed to last longer (often 150,000–200,000 miles or more), but wear can occur if tensioners or guides fail or if oil maintenance is neglected.
- Engine interference risk: if a belt fails on an interference engine, internal damage can occur; chain failures are less likely to cause sudden, catastrophic damage but can still lead to costly repairs if components wear out.
- When servicing a belt, consider replacing related components (water pump, tensioners, and idlers) to avoid downstream labor costs and future leaks.
Whether you’re facing a belt or chain, proper maintenance—especially regular oil changes and timely component replacements—helps minimize risk and extend engine life.
What to do if you’re unsure or approaching a replacement interval
If you’re close to a replacement window or simply unsure which system your Subaru uses, take these steps to stay safe and plan ahead.
- Identify your engine family (EJ, FA, or FB) and confirm whether it uses a belt or chain.
- Consult the owner’s manual or contact a Subaru service advisor with your VIN to confirm the exact interval or lack thereof.
- If you have a belt-driven engine and are nearing the typical 100k–110k mile window, schedule a belt service with water pump and tensioners.
- If you have a chain-driven engine, monitor for unusual noises (rattling from the timing area) and factor in potential wear components at high mileage, but know there’s no fixed replacement interval.
- Request OEM parts and a professional inspection to assess belt/chain condition and accessory components (tensioners, guides, pump, seals).
Proactive planning and professional confirmation are the best safeguards against unexpected timing-system failures.
Summary
Bottom line: Subarus vary by model year and engine family. Many older Subarus used timing belts that require replacement at a defined interval, while most newer Subarus rely on timing chains that do not require scheduled replacements. Always verify by engine code and consult the owner’s manual or a Subaru dealer to determine whether a belt, a chain, and what maintenance steps are appropriate for your vehicle. Staying informed helps you plan maintenance, budget for repairs, and avoid unexpected breakdowns.
Which Subaru has a timing chain?
2010-2012 Outbacks with the 2.5 SOHC (EJ253) have a timing belt. 2013-2014 Outbacks with the 2.5 DOHC (FB25) have a timing chain. And the Outbacks with the 3.6 (EZ36) have chains as well.
What year did Subaru stop using timing belts?
Subaru did not stop using timing belts across all models in a single year; the transition to timing chains happened in phases around the 2011-2013 model years, depending on the specific model and engine. Models with the FB engine, such as the 2011 Forester and 2012 Impreza, were among the first to switch, while other models like the Legacy and Outback transitioned a couple of years later. Some high-performance and 6-cylinder engines also have different timelines, with some models using chains as far back as 2001, while turbocharged models continued to use belts for several more years.
Timing belt vs. timing chain
- Timing belts were used in most Subaru EJ series engines and required periodic replacement (e.g., every 80,000 to 100,000 miles) to avoid engine damage. A plastic cover on the front of the engine is a good visual indicator of a timing belt system.
- Timing chains were introduced in newer models and are designed to last the life of the engine, though issues with tensioners and guides can occur, as discussed on JustAnswer. A visual indicator is an aluminum cover, according to Facebook groups.
How to determine your vehicle's system
- Check the engine code: The specific engine in your Subaru determines the system. For example, the EJ series used belts, while the FB and FA series use chains.
- Look for a plastic cover: If the front of the engine has a plastic cover, it likely uses a timing belt.
- Consult your vehicle's VIN: The most accurate way is to call a Subaru dealer and ask about your specific vehicle by providing its VIN.
How do I know if my Subaru has a timing belt or chain?
But you will see a black plastic timing belt cover on the front side of the engine. Now pros of timing belt.
Do all subarus need timing belt replacement?
Timing BELTS are recommended every 100k (105 to be more exact, as per Subaru), but chains do not have a regular interval. Chains are replaced when there's an issue with them.
