Does a 1999 Subaru Forester have a timing belt or chain?
Short answer: It uses a timing belt, not a chain.
In the 1999 Forester, the common engine lineup for many markets included a 2.5-liter flat-four (EJ25) and, in some trims or regions, a turbocharged 2.0-liter (EJ20G). Both of these engine families used belt-driven camshafts, making the timing belt a critical maintenance item for this model year. Always confirm your exact engine code to be certain, as configurations can vary by market and trim.
What engines were offered in the 1999 Forester?
Below is a quick breakdown of the typical engines found in 1999 Forester models. The listed engines are commonly belt-driven and may vary by market, so verify with your vehicle’s VIN or service records.
- 2.5-liter flat-four (EJ25) — commonly found in US-market 1999 Foresters
- 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-four (EJ20G) — present in turbo-equipped models in some markets
Both of these engines use a timing belt rather than a chain, which means belt maintenance is a key part of preventative care for the vehicle.
Timing belt maintenance: what you should know
The following points cover essential belt-related maintenance for a 1999 Forester. Prepared owners and mechanics use this guidance to minimize risk of belt failure and engine damage.
- Replacement interval: Plan to replace the timing belt at roughly 105,000 miles (or as specified in your owner's manual). Some owners service intervals can vary by region or vehicle condition, so check your manual and service history.
- Water pump and related components: It’s common practice to replace the water pump, tensioners, and seals when the timing belt is replaced, since labor access is already available and failures in these parts can lead to belt damage or coolant leaks.
- Signs of wear: Look for fraying, cracking, glazing, missing teeth, or oil contamination on the belt. Unusual noises, overheating, or belt area oil leaks can indicate issues that warrant inspection.
- Consequences of belt failure: A broken timing belt can cause severe engine damage, including bent valves in interference engines. If you notice rough idling, misfires, or loss of power, stop driving and have the vehicle inspected promptly.
Adhering to the recommended replacement interval and promptly addressing signs of wear will help protect the engine from the costly consequences of belt failure. When in doubt, consult a Subaru specialist or a trusted mechanic to confirm the exact belt service needs for your specific engine code.
Summary
The 1999 Subaru Forester primarily uses a timing belt for its belt-driven engines (not a timing chain). The most common US-market engine is the 2.5L EJ25, with some turbo variants using the 2.0L EJ20G. Belt maintenance is essential—plan for replacement around 105,000 miles and consider replacing the water pump and tensioners at the same time. Always verify your exact engine code to confirm the correct maintenance approach.
