Does a 2013 Subaru Forester have a timing belt?
The 2013 Subaru Forester is a popular compact SUV known for its reliability, all-wheel-drive capability, and practicality. If you own or are considering purchasing this vehicle, you might wonder whether it uses a timing belt or a timing chain. This is an important question, as the type of timing mechanism affects maintenance schedules and costs.
Timing Belt or Timing Chain: What Does the 2013 Subaru Forester Use?
The 2013 Subaru Forester comes with two engine options, and the type of timing mechanism depends on the engine:
- 2.5L 4-cylinder engine: This engine uses a timing belt. Subaru recommends replacing the timing belt every 105,000 miles or 8 years, whichever comes first. Regular replacement is crucial to avoid engine damage if the belt fails.
- 2.0L turbocharged engine (XT models): This engine is equipped with a timing chain. Timing chains are generally more durable and do not require regular replacement under normal driving conditions.
Why Is This Important?
Understanding whether your vehicle has a timing belt or chain is essential for proper maintenance. Here’s why:
- Timing Belt: A timing belt is made of rubber and requires periodic replacement to prevent failure. If it breaks, it can cause severe engine damage, especially in interference engines like those found in the Subaru Forester.
- Timing Chain: A timing chain is made of metal and is designed to last the life of the engine. However, it may still require inspection and maintenance if you notice unusual noises or performance issues.
Maintenance Tips for Your Subaru Forester
To keep your 2013 Subaru Forester running smoothly, follow these maintenance tips:
- For the 2.5L engine, replace the timing belt at the recommended interval to avoid costly repairs.
- For the 2.0L turbocharged engine, monitor the timing chain for any signs of wear or noise, especially as the vehicle ages.
- Regularly inspect and maintain other components, such as the water pump, tensioners, and pulleys, when servicing the timing belt or chain.
Conclusion
In summary, the 2013 Subaru Forester with the 2.5L engine uses a timing belt, while the 2.0L turbocharged engine uses a timing chain. Proper maintenance of these components is essential to ensure the longevity and reliability of your vehicle. If you’re unsure about the condition of your timing belt or chain, don’t hesitate to consult a trusted mechanic for an inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Subaru timing belt last 200 000 miles?
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 Subaru models have a timing chain?
All Foresters from 2011 onward (2014 for the XT) have a timing chain.
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.
How many miles does a 2013 Subaru Forester last?
Forester: The Subaru Forester is a compact SUV that offers a perfect blend of utility, comfort, and durability. Forester models are known for their long-lasting performance, with many drivers achieving 200,000 miles with minimal issues.
What happens when a timing belt breaks on a Subaru Forester?
A failing timing belt may show a myriad of symptoms, such as noises coming from the front of the vehicle, engine misfires, and decreased engine performance. In many situations, if the timing belt breaks, the engine will no longer run, and the engine will not restart without replacing the timing belt.
How do I know if my engine has a timing belt or chain?
A timing belt just has a plastic cover and a chain has a metal cover sealed with a gasket and the chain can often be seen through the oil filler cap.
How much does it cost to replace a timing belt on a 2013 Subaru Forester?
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).
Do Subaru timing chains 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.
What year did Subaru stop using timing belts?
Subaru engines used belts , except for the boxer ez. 3.6 and diesel engines until about 2011. 2012-up 4th generation Subaru used chains and on newer engines.
Does a 2013 Forester have a timing belt or chain?
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.
