Do any Subaru engines have timing chains?
Yes, some Subaru engines do have timing chains. Subaru has used both timing belts and timing chains in their engines over the years, depending on the specific model and engine configuration.
Subaru Engines with Timing Chains
Subaru's newer turbocharged engines, such as the 2.4-liter FA24 engine found in the Ascent, Outback, and Legacy models, use a timing chain rather than a timing belt. Timing chains are generally more durable and longer-lasting than timing belts, which need to be replaced periodically as part of regular maintenance. 1 2
Other Subaru engines that use timing chains include:
- 2.4-liter FB24 engine (found in the Forester, Impreza, and Crosstrek)
- 2.4-liter EJ24 engine (used in some older Subaru models)
- 3.6-liter EZ36 engine (found in the Outback and Ascent)
The use of timing chains in these engines helps to reduce maintenance costs and improve the overall reliability of the vehicle.
Subaru Engines with Timing Belts
While many of Subaru's newer engines use timing chains, some of their older and smaller-displacement engines still utilize timing belts. Examples include:
- 2.0-liter FA20 engine (found in the BRZ and WRX)
- 2.5-liter EJ25 engine (used in many Subaru models over the years)
- 2.2-liter EJ22 engine (found in some older Subaru models)
Timing belts generally need to be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles as part of regular maintenance, which can be a more costly repair compared to timing chain-equipped engines.
In summary, Subaru has used both timing chains and timing belts in their engines over the years, with the newer turbocharged models tending to use the more durable timing chain design.
How do I know if my Subaru has a timing belt or chain?
Cars with a timing belt have a plastic cover near the engine block (often to the left-hand side), which provides easy access to the belt. It needs changing at regular intervals, which is why the removable cover is necessary. In cars with a timing chain, you won't see a plastic cover.
Does 2025 Forester have a timing belt or chain?
2025 Subaru Forester Engine Timing Chain.
What years did Subaru have CVT problems?
The models and years that were affected mainly by transmission issues are:
- Crosstrek, 2013 – 2015.
- Crosstrek Hybrid, 2014 – 2015.
- Forester (2.0 and 2.5 liter engines), 2014 – 2015.
- Impreza, 2012 – 2015.
- Legacy, 2010 – 2015.
- Legacy 3.6L V6, 2015.
- Outback, 2010 – 2015.
- Outback 3.6L V6, 2015.
What year does Subaru have a timing chain?
When it comes to Subarus, timing chains are standard on practically all models produced since 2013. The Subaru WRX and Subaru WRX STI are the exceptions. These are higher-performance variants, and the timing belts on both of them lasted a little longer than on other models.
Do any subarus have timing chains?
2011 was the first year for the newest version of the 2.5L normally aspirated engine. Years previous to 2011 the 2.5L, as did all Subaru flat four engines, used a timing belt. Beginning in 2011 the 2.5L uses a timing chain.
Which Subaru Forester has a timing chain?
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. And for a brief period from 2011 to 2012, the Forester was fitted with either a timing belt or a timing chain depending on which engine was fitted.
Which Subaru Forester has timing chain?
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. And for a brief period from 2011 to 2012, the Forester was fitted with either a timing belt or a timing chain depending on which engine was fitted.
Does Subaru Forester have timing chain?
This Fits Your 2024 Subaru Forester. Your engine's timing chain can stretch over time resulting in a check engine light that comes along with excessive noise from your engine's timing cover. If the chain has broken, which is a rare occurrence, the engine will not start.
Why did they stop using timing chains?
Both systems are permanently being further developed. For some time now, vehicle manufacturers have been moving away from chains again because the friction loss with chains is too great.
Does a Subaru timing chain need to be replaced?
They may only need to get new timing chains after driving for a full one hundred and twenty thousand miles. It should take years for most drivers to get to that point. Customers who recently purchased used Subaru vehicles should usually get the automotive timing chains checked.
