Does Subaru have a belt or chain?
As a seasoned auto service provider, I often encounter questions about the types of engine components used in various vehicles. One common inquiry is whether Subaru vehicles utilize a timing belt or a timing chain. Understanding this aspect is crucial for car owners, as it impacts maintenance schedules and potential repair costs.
Timing Belt vs. Timing Chain
Both timing belts and timing chains serve the same fundamental purpose: they synchronize the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft, ensuring that the engine's valves open and close at the correct times during each cylinder's intake and exhaust strokes. However, they differ in construction, durability, and maintenance requirements.
Subaru's Engine Design
Most Subaru models are equipped with a timing belt. This is particularly true for their older models and many of their four-cylinder engines. However, Subaru has transitioned to using timing chains in some of their newer models, especially those with six-cylinder engines. Here’s a breakdown:
- Timing Belt: Found in many older Subaru models and some current four-cylinder engines.
- Timing Chain: Used in newer six-cylinder engines and some newer four-cylinder models.
Maintenance Considerations
Understanding whether your Subaru has a timing belt or chain is essential for maintenance. Here are some key points:
- Timing Belts: Typically require replacement every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. Failure to replace a worn belt can lead to severe engine damage.
- Timing Chains: Generally more durable and designed to last the lifetime of the engine. However, they can still experience wear and may require inspection or replacement if issues arise.
Conclusion
In summary, whether your Subaru has a timing belt or chain depends on the model and engine type. Regular maintenance and awareness of your vehicle's specific requirements can help prevent costly repairs down the line. If you're unsure about your Subaru's engine components, it's always a good idea to consult your owner's manual or reach out to a trusted auto service professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do subarus have timing belts or chains?
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.
How long will a Subaru boxer engine last?
200,000 miles
Subaru vehicles are renowned for their exceptional longevity, often surpassing 200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance and care.
Is Subaru CVT belt or chain?
After trying to improve this process, Subaru engineers developed the Lineartronic CVT transmission. This CVT transmission, mounted longitudinally with a Subaru All-Wheel Drive, chain rather than a belt.
Which Subaru does not use CVT?
Subaru BRZ
Since 2014, the Lineartronic® CVT has been standard in all automatic Subaru models and trims (except the Subaru BRZ).
What years did Subaru have CVT transmission problems?
Subaru Legacy: 2010-2015 Models
The Subaru Legacy shares many of its components with the Outback. Thus, it's no surprise that similar model years—2010 to 2015—have similar issues. The CVT transmission problems were also among the most prominent.
Does the Subaru Boxer engine have a timing belt or chain?
Today, many Subaru BOXER® engines are equipped with a timing chain that should not require any maintenance.
Do Subarus have a serpentine belt?
Subaru Serpentine Belt Replacement in Centennial
This single belt is driven by the crankshaft pulley and winds its way around to each accessory. While the serpentine belt is a very sturdy component that can generally last 50,000 miles or more, it will still wear over time and start to slip.
When did Subaru change from timing belt to chain?
FB engine (timing chain, among other changes) started in 2011 Foresters, 2012 Imprezas, and 2013 Legacy/Outbacks. All EZ 6-cylinders (3.0 and 3.6, since 2001) had timing chains.
What year did Subaru switch to timing chains?
Commonly found on most Subaru vehicles built in the 1990s and early 2000s, the EJ family of engines all feature timing belts. But, in 2010, the new FB family of engines featured an all-new design including a timing chain.
Do Subarus use chains?
The simple answer: no. Due to Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, adding snow chains to your tires is not necessary, nor recommended. Many of Subaru's vehicle manuals explicitly state that snow chains are not recommended.
