Does a 2005 Subaru Forester have a timing belt or chain?
The Forester model year 2005 uses a timing belt, not a timing chain.
In 2005, Subaru offered two main engine options for the Forester: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder without turbocharged, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine for the XT trim. Both rely on a belt-driven timing system, which means the belt and supporting components must be replaced at intervals to prevent severe engine damage if the belt fails. This article explains what that means for owners and buyers today.
Engines offered in the 2005 Forester
Two belt-driven options were available in the year:
- 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder (EJ25) — commonly called the 2.5i
- 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (EJ20) — the XT variant
Both engines use a timing belt and are designed as interference engines, so a belt failure can cause valve damage if the valves and pistons collide.
Timing belt specifics and maintenance
Important maintenance guidelines for the timing belt in the 2005 Forester:
- Replacement interval: typically around 100,000–105,000 miles (about 160,000–170,000 km) under normal driving. Check the owner's manual or your service history for the exact interval.
- When replacing the belt, engineers commonly replace the water pump, belt tensioner, and idler pulleys to reduce future labor and risk of belt failure.
- Signs of wear to watch for: cracks or fraying on the belt, glazing or missing teeth, unusual squealing from the timing belt area, oil contamination from a failing water pump or seals.
- Implications of failure: since the EJ-series engines in a 2005 Forester are interference designs, a timing belt failure can cause bent valves and expensive repairs.
Proactive maintenance helps prevent unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. If you're not sure when the belt was last replaced, plan a replacement with a qualified mechanic.
Buying used: what to check
When shopping for a used 2005 Forester, verify service records show a timing belt replacement at or near the recommended interval, and request documentation for replacement of the water pump and tensioners. A pre-purchase inspection can confirm belt condition and overall engine health.
Summary
Bottom line: The 2005 Subaru Forester uses a timing belt. Both main engines—the 2.5i and the 2.0XT—rely on belt-driven timing, with a typical replacement window around 100,000–105,000 miles. Plan maintenance accordingly and prioritize parts replacement of the water pump and tensioners during belt service to avoid future failures.
Does a 2005 Subaru Forester have a timing belt?
This Fits Your 2005 Subaru Forester 2.5L MT L.L.BEAN(LL) Your timing belt is typically replaced as part of a scheduled service. A failed timing belt can result in anything to an engine that will crank but not start to catastrophic engine damage.
What are the common problems of a 2005 Subaru Forester?
Common problems for a 2005 Subaru Forester include head gasket issues, failed catalytic converters, oil leaks, and misfires. Other frequent issues involve the oxygen sensor, transmission problems like noise and delays, and electrical problems such as a defective light switch. Rust can also be an issue.
Engine and drivetrain
- Head Gaskets: A very common and costly problem, often caused by cooling system issues. Symptoms include coolant leaks, overheating, and milky oil.
- Oil leaks: Leaks from gaskets, seals, or the oil pressure sensor are frequent. Regular checks are vital to prevent oil starvation.
- Catalytic Converter: Often fails, leading to a "check engine" light and sometimes a rattling noise from the exhaust.
- Misfires: Can be caused by old spark plug wires, worn-out spark plugs, or a faulty ignition coil. This can lead to shaking and a lack of power.
- Oxygen Sensor: The front oxygen sensor can crack, triggering the check engine light.
- Transmission: Problems can include shifting delays, noises, or a burning smell.
- Knock Sensor: Failure of the knock sensor can illuminate the check engine light.
Other common issues
- Rust: Some models are prone to rust.
- Electrical: Besides the oxygen sensor, the light switch can be defective.
- Wheel Bearings: These can produce a humming noise that gets louder as the vehicle's speed increases.
How much does it cost to replace a timing belt on a 2005 Subaru?
The real cost is in the labor, because a lot of parts need to be disassembled to get to the 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).
What year did Forester get timing chain?
The Subaru Forester switched to a timing chain starting with the 2011 model year for non-turbocharged engines with the introduction of the FB-series engine. The turbocharged XT models made the switch for the 2014 model year. Therefore, most non-turbo Foresters from 2011 onward, and all turbo Foresters from 2014 onward, use a timing chain instead of a belt.
- Non-turbo models: The switch to a timing chain happened in 2011 with the introduction of the new FB25 engine.
- Turbo XT models: The switch occurred later, in 2014.
- What this means:
- A Forester from 2011-2013 is likely to have a timing chain (if it's not a turbo model).
- A Forester from 2014 or later is guaranteed to have a timing chain.
