How do I know if my Subaru has a timing belt or chain?
As a Subaru owner, understanding whether your vehicle is equipped with a timing belt or a timing chain is crucial for proper maintenance and avoiding costly repairs. Timing belts and chains serve the same purpose: they synchronize the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft to ensure your engine's valves open and close at the right times. However, they differ in materials, lifespan, and maintenance requirements. Here's how you can determine which one your Subaru has and what it means for you.
Subaru Models and Their Timing Systems
Subaru vehicles are known for their reliability and unique Boxer engine design. Over the years, Subaru has used both timing belts and timing chains in their engines, depending on the model and year of manufacture. Here's a general breakdown:
- Timing Belts: Most Subaru models manufactured before 2013 are equipped with timing belts. This includes popular models like the Subaru Outback, Forester, and Legacy from earlier generations.
- Timing Chains: Starting around 2013, Subaru began transitioning many of its engines to timing chains. For example, the FB-series engines, which power newer models of the Forester, Outback, and Crosstrek, use timing chains.
It's important to note that there may be exceptions based on specific trims or engine configurations, so always verify your vehicle's details.
How to Check If Your Subaru Has a Timing Belt or Chain
If you're unsure whether your Subaru has a timing belt or chain, here are a few ways to find out:
- Consult Your Owner's Manual: The owner's manual for your Subaru will specify whether your engine uses a timing belt or chain. Look under the maintenance section for details.
- Check Under the Hood: Timing belts are typically enclosed in a plastic or rubber cover, while timing chains are housed in a metal casing. If you're comfortable inspecting your engine, this can be a quick way to identify the system.
- Contact a Professional Mechanic: If you're still unsure, a trusted mechanic can quickly determine the type of timing system in your Subaru. At Kevin's Autos, we specialize in Subaru maintenance and can provide you with accurate information and advice.
Maintenance Tips for Timing Belts and Chains
Proper maintenance of your timing system is essential to keep your Subaru running smoothly. Here are some tips based on the type of system your vehicle has:
- Timing Belts: Timing belts typically need to be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on the model. Neglecting this maintenance can lead to belt failure, which may cause severe engine damage.
- Timing Chains: Timing chains are designed to last the lifetime of the engine and generally require less maintenance. However, they can stretch or wear over time, so listen for unusual noises like rattling, which may indicate a problem.
Why It Matters
Knowing whether your Subaru has a timing belt or chain helps you stay on top of maintenance and avoid unexpected breakdowns. Timing belt replacements are a routine part of vehicle upkeep, while timing chains require less frequent attention but should not be ignored if issues arise. Regular inspections and timely maintenance can save you from costly repairs and keep your Subaru performing at its best.
If you have any questions or need assistance with your Subaru's timing system, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Kevin's Autos. With years of experience in car maintenance and repair, we're here to help you keep your vehicle in top condition!
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
What year did Subaru go to 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.
How often do timing chains need to be replaced?
between 80,000 and 100,000 miles
Unless your engine has a specific replacement interval, the commonly accepted mileage is between 80,000 and 100,000 miles. However, the timing chain isn't necessarily a maintenance item and can last the engine's life, provided you change the oil regularly and maintain the rest of the engine.
How long does a Subaru timing chain 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.
How can I tell which Subaru engine I have?
Placement isn't enough ej25. And ej20 is just a general term for displacement. So we need to take the next step and figure out what type of throttle body it has. So this engine.
Does my Subaru have a timing belt or chain?
Which Subaru Models Have Timing Belts? 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 engines have timing chains?
Vehicles that have a timing chain instead of a cambelt include:
- Most BMWs.
- Dacia Sandero (TCe engine)
- Suzuki Swift.
- Most MINIs.
- Most Audi petrol models.
- Toyota Yaris.
- Honda Jazz.
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.
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.
How do I know if I have a timing belt or chain?
You can open the bonnet of your car and inspect the engine to find out which your car has. Check to see if there is a plastic cover on the right or left side of your engine, as this will indicate that your car uses a timing belt. If no plastic is visible on the side, then your car uses a timing chain.
