Does the 2018 Subaru Outback have a timing chain?
The 2018 Subaru Outback uses a timing chain rather than a timing belt in its engines, and both available powertrains are chain-driven.
In 2018, the Outback offered two engines: the standard 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder (FB25) and, in higher trims or markets, the 3.6-liter horizontally opposed six-cylinder (EZ36). Both use a timing chain-based timing system, not a belt.
Engine options and timing system
Below are the engines used in the 2018 Outback and whether they use a timing chain or belt.
- 2.5L FB25 four-cylinder — timing chain
- 3.6L EZ36 six-cylinder — timing chain (availability varies by trim)
Both engines in the 2018 Outback use a timing chain, with no timing belt in production—and Subaru generally designs this chain to last the life of the engine with proper maintenance.
Maintenance considerations for timing chains
What owners should know about upkeep and potential wear on timing chains in the Outback.
- Timing chains are designed to last longer than belts; routine maintenance is more focused on engine oil and overall maintenance rather than a scheduled chain replacement.
- Common warning signs include unusual rattling, especially on startup, or a check engine light if the timing is off or tensioner/guide wear is detected.
- High-mileage engines may require attention to chain tensioners, guides, or the water pump that shares the front of the timing chain—concern grows with age and mileage.
In practice, most 2018 Outback owners do not replace a timing chain as part of routine maintenance if oil changes are kept on schedule.
Summary
In short, the 2018 Subaru Outback uses a timing chain in both engine options, avoiding a belt-based maintenance schedule. If you’re shopping used, verify the specific engine in your model year and listen for chain-related noises; consult a Subaru technician for a precise assessment.
Which Subaru Outbacks have timing chains?
2010-2012 Outbacks with the 2.5 SOHC (EJ253) have a timing belt. 2013-2014 Outbacks with the 2.5 DOHC (FB25) have a timing chain. And the Outbacks with the 3.6 (EZ36) have chains as well.
When did the Subaru Outback change to timing chain?
The Subaru Outback switched to a timing chain for the 2013 model year, coinciding with the introduction of the FB engine in the Legacy and Outback models. Before 2013, the Outback used timing belts.
- Timing Chain: Introduced for the 2013 model year on the FB25 engine.
- Timing Belt: Used in prior models, such as the 2012 and earlier generations.
Does the 2017 Subaru Outback have a timing chain or belt?
A 2017 Subaru Outback uses a timing chain, not a timing belt. Subaru switched to timing chains for most of their models starting around the 2013 model year, and timing chains do not require scheduled replacement like timing belts do.
- No scheduled maintenance: Unlike a timing belt, which needs replacement around the 100,000-mile mark, the timing chain is considered a lifetime part and does not have a replacement interval.
- Lifespan: With proper oil maintenance, a timing chain can last over 200,000 miles.
- Potential issues: Problems with a timing chain usually result from neglect, like poor oil service, which can lead to wear on the chain, tensioners, and guides. This can cause issues like rattling noises or a check engine light.
- Repair: If a timing chain system has a problem, replacement is a costly and labor-intensive job.
Does a 2018 Subaru Outback have a timing chain?
What are the key replacements for safety I should invest in before 100K warranty expires. My 2018 Outback has a timing chain. Therefore lasts a lot longer than timing belts.
