How do I know if my Subaru has a timing belt or chain?
Knowing whether your Subaru has a timing belt or a timing chain is important for maintaining your vehicle's engine. Timing belts typically need to be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, while timing chains can last the lifetime of the engine. Here's how you can determine which type of timing component your Subaru has.
Checking the Timing Component
The easiest way to determine if your Subaru has a timing belt or chain is to consult your owner's manual or the manufacturer's specifications for your specific model and year. This information is usually clearly stated in the maintenance section.
If you don't have access to your owner's manual, you can also check the engine by following these steps:
- Locate the timing cover, which is usually on the front of the engine.
- Remove the timing cover to expose the timing component.
- Inspect the component - if it's a flat, toothed belt, it's a timing belt. If it's a metal chain, it's a timing chain.
Keep in mind that some Subaru models may have different timing components depending on the engine type, so it's important to check the specific information for your vehicle.
Timing Belt vs. Timing Chain
Timing belts and timing chains serve the same purpose - they synchronize the opening and closing of the engine's valves with the rotation of the crankshaft. However, there are some key differences between the two:
- Lifespan: Timing belts typically need to be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, while timing chains can last the lifetime of the engine.
- Maintenance: Timing belt replacement is a more involved and costly service, as it requires the removal of several engine components. Timing chains require less maintenance.
- Reliability: Timing chains are generally considered more reliable and durable than timing belts, as they are less susceptible to wear and tear.
Knowing whether your Subaru has a timing belt or chain can help you plan for the appropriate maintenance and avoid unexpected engine issues down the road.
How can I tell which Subaru engine I have?
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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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
