How much does it cost to replace a timing belt on a Subaru Impreza?

A typical timing belt replacement for a Subaru Impreza costs about $500 to $900, though prices can vary by model year, engine type, and local labor rates. In high-cost areas or for engines that require extra work, the bill can approach or exceed $1,000.

Timing belt service is a significant maintenance item, and the Impreza line has used different timing systems across its years. Some models rely on a belt-driven setup, while others may incorporate variations that affect replacement complexity. This article outlines current pricing, what’s usually included, and how to shop for the best deal in 2025.

What affects the price

Several factors drive the final bill for timing belt replacement on a Subaru Impreza. The list below highlights the main variables you’re likely to encounter when obtaining quotes.

• Engine type and whether the model uses a belt- or chain-driven timing system


• Whether the service includes a timing belt kit with water pump, tensioners, and idler pulleys


• Labor rates in your region and the shop’s pricing structure


• Whether additional maintenance is required (coolant flush, thermostat, seals)


• Part sourcing, warranty, and whether you supply parts or rely on the shop’s inventory

Pricing can vary widely by region and shop, but these factors consistently explain most of the price spread.

Typical cost ranges

Most customers will see a combined price in the ballpark of several hundred to around a thousand dollars. The following breakdown gives a practical sense of where those totals come from.

• Parts and components: A timing belt kit (belt, tensioner, idlers) plus a water pump, seals, and coolant typically runs about $150–$350.


• Labor: Expect roughly 2.5–5 hours of labor depending on engine layout and how difficult the job is; at common shop rates of $90–$150 per hour, labor can be about $225–$750.


• Estimated total: In many markets, a standard timing belt replacement falls around $500–$900, with higher-cost areas or complex engines pushing the total toward $1,000–$1,200.

Note that Subarus with certain engines may require additional steps, such as replacing water pumps and thermostat or addressing seized pulleys. Always request a written quote that itemizes parts and labor.

What to expect during service

During a timing belt replacement, mechanics typically will inspect the belt routing, replace the belt and tensioners, replace idler pulleys as needed, replace seals (such as cam/crank seals), flush and replace coolant, and reset timing. After completion, a test run and a scanning check are common to verify proper alignment and no leaks. For many Impreza models, the water pump is replaced as a precaution to prevent premature failure.

DIY vs professional service

While technically doable for a skilled home mechanic, timing belt work is a high-risk job that can cause catastrophic engine damage if done incorrectly. Professional service offers proper tools, torque specs, and timing alignment checks. If you choose to DIY, ensure you have the correct parts, torque specs, and a factory service manual for your exact model/year.

Tips to save money or get a better deal

To save money and ensure reliability, consider these strategies when planning timing belt replacement.

• Shop around for quotes from multiple shops and ask for itemized estimates


• Ask if the price includes water pump, seals, and coolant; if not, factor those costs in


• Inquire about warranty on parts and labor


• Consider scheduling maintenance during promotions or bundled services

Proactively planning and obtaining quotes can help you lock in a fair price and avoid surprise charges.

Summary

Replacing a timing belt on a Subaru Impreza typically costs between $500 and $900 in many markets, with a broad range up to about $1,000–$1,200 in high-cost areas or for engines requiring extra work. The exact price depends on the engine, whether a water pump and related components are included, regional labor rates, and any additional repairs. Always obtain a written, itemized estimate from a reputable shop and verify what is included to protect your engine’s long-term reliability.

Is it OK to drive with a bad timing belt?

No, you cannot and should not drive with a bad or broken timing belt; the engine will likely not run, and continuing to drive could lead to catastrophic and very expensive engine damage. If the timing belt breaks while you are driving, the car will stall immediately, and if it's an interference engine, the pistons can collide with the valves, causing severe internal damage. It is best to have the vehicle towed to a repair shop and the timing belt replaced as soon as you suspect a problem.
 
This video explains the signs of a bad timing belt and what happens when it fails: 32s8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Sep 22, 2024
Risks of driving with a bad timing belt

• Sudden engine failure: The engine will stop running, leaving you stranded. 
• Severe internal damage: On interference engines (most modern cars), the pistons and valves can collide at high speed, leading to bent valves, damaged pistons, or even a cracked engine block. 
• Costly repairs: The damage from a broken timing belt can be so severe that it costs thousands of dollars to repair, potentially exceeding the value of the car. 
• Safety hazard: If the belt breaks while you are driving, especially at high speeds, the sudden loss of power can be dangerous and may force you to pull over in an unsafe location. 

What to do instead

• Do not drive the car. 
• Call a tow truck to have the vehicle towed to a repair facility. 
• Get the timing belt inspected and replaced immediately to prevent a breakdown. 

How much does it cost to change a timing belt on a Subaru Impreza?

The typical cost for replacing a timing belt begins at approximately $550 and may rise to more than $1300 if additional engine components need to be removed for access to the timing belt.

When should the timing belt be replaced on a Subaru Impreza?

The Subaru Impreza timing belt replacement interval is typically every 105,000 miles or seven years, whichever comes first. However, this can vary by model year and specific engine, so it is always best to consult your owner's manual for the most accurate recommendation. If the belt breaks, it can cause catastrophic damage to your engine.
 
This video explains the importance of timing belt replacement: 24sMrSubaru1387YouTube · May 18, 2025
Key replacement intervals

• Mileage: Around 105,000 miles 
• Time: About seven years 
• Note: Some manufacturers list the interval in kilometers or months, such as 125,000 km or 60 months for certain models, but the 105,000 mile / seven-year rule is a common guideline for many US models. 

Why replacement is crucial

• Engine damage: If the timing belt breaks, the engine's valves can hit the pistons, leading to major internal damage that can require an expensive engine replacement. 
• Material degradation: Rubber belts can degrade over time due to heat and other factors, becoming brittle and prone to cracking and snapping. 

Additional recommendations

• When replacing the timing belt, it is highly recommended to also replace other components, such as the water pump, tensioner, and idler pulleys, as they are often difficult and costly to access later. 
• Consider replacing the water pump and thermostat during the timing belt service because the water pump is in the same area and replacement is more economical while the engine is already being worked on. 

This video demonstrates the timing belt replacement process: 58sSTiAlanYouTube · Jul 8, 2024

Is it worth replacing a timing belt?

These car parts are subject to great forces inside the vehicle's engine. For this reason, every vehicle that has a timing belt will require a new timing belt replacement at some point during its life. Without a fully functioning timing belt, the car's engine won't be able to run properly.