Does the 2012 Subaru Legacy have a belt or chain?
The 2012 Subaru Legacy is a popular midsize sedan known for its reliability, all-wheel-drive system, and solid performance. One common question among owners and potential buyers is whether this vehicle uses a timing belt or a timing chain. Understanding this is crucial for maintenance planning and ensuring the longevity of the engine.
Timing Belt vs. Timing Chain: What’s the Difference?
Before diving into the specifics of the 2012 Subaru Legacy, it’s important to understand the difference between a timing belt and a timing chain:
- Timing Belt: Made of rubber and reinforced with materials like fiberglass, timing belts are quieter but require periodic replacement, typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles.
- Timing Chain: Made of metal, timing chains are more durable and often last the lifetime of the engine. However, they can be noisier and may require tensioner adjustments over time.
What Does the 2012 Subaru Legacy Use?
The 2012 Subaru Legacy comes with different engine options, and whether it uses a timing belt or chain depends on the specific engine:
- 2.5L 4-Cylinder Engine: This engine uses a timing belt. Subaru recommends replacing the timing belt at approximately 105,000 miles to prevent potential engine damage.
- 3.6L 6-Cylinder Engine: This engine is equipped with a timing chain, which is designed to last the lifetime of the engine under normal operating conditions.
Why Is This Important?
Knowing whether your vehicle has a timing belt or chain helps you plan for maintenance and avoid costly repairs. If your 2012 Subaru Legacy has the 2.5L engine, it’s essential to replace the timing belt on schedule to prevent it from breaking, which could cause severe engine damage. On the other hand, if you have the 3.6L engine, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a timing chain, though regular inspections are still recommended to ensure everything is functioning properly.
Final Thoughts
In summary, the 2012 Subaru Legacy uses a timing belt for the 2.5L engine and a timing chain for the 3.6L engine. If you’re unsure which engine your vehicle has, check your owner’s manual or consult a trusted mechanic. At Kevin’s Autos, we’re here to help with all your car maintenance needs, from timing belt replacements to routine inspections. Feel free to contact us for expert advice and service!
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Is 2012 a good year for Subaru Legacy?
Among the 289 owners who provided feedback on the 2012 Subaru Legacy for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with 85% recommending the vehicle.
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.
Which Subaru engines use timing chains?
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 the 2012 Subaru Legacy have a CVT?
A six-speed manual transmission (which includes a hill-holder feature) is standard on the base 2.5i and 2.5i Premium, while a CVT is optional on those models and standard on the 2.5i Limited.
How much does it cost to replace a timing belt on a 2012 Subaru Legacy?
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).
Does a 2012 Subaru Legacy have a timing belt or chain?
This Fits Your 2012 Subaru Legacy. 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.
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 long do Subaru timing chains last?
A timing chain is bulkier and louder; however, it does not require replacement. Though a repair might be necessary in some rare occasions, most timing chains last for the entire life of the engine.
What year did Subaru switch to CVT?
2014
Fuel economy. For example, for the 2014 Forester, Subaru introduced a CVT.
