How much does it cost to replace a timing belt on a Subaru Legacy?
Typically, a timing belt replacement on a Subaru Legacy runs about $600 to $1,400 when performed by an independent shop, with higher prices at a dealership. The exact amount depends on the engine, whether the water pump and other components are included, and local labor rates.
In practice, the cost hinges on whether your Legacy uses a timing belt (as some older generations do) or a timing chain (used in some newer iterations). The scope of service—belt-only versus a full timing belt kit that includes a water pump, seals, and coolant—also drives the price. Because the Legacy spans several generations with different engines, it's important to confirm your specific configuration, service interval, and the components included in a quote before work begins.
Cost snapshot for belt-driven Legacy engines
The numbers below reflect typical scenarios for belt-driven engines in the Subaru Legacy across several generations and regions. Exact pricing will vary by model year and location.
- Belt replacement without a water pump (belt, tensioner and idlers only): about $300–$600 for parts plus $100–$350 for labor, totaling roughly $400–$950.
- Belt replacement with a water pump and seals (timing belt kit): about $500–$1,000 in parts and $200–$600 in labor, totaling roughly $700–$1,600.
- Dealership or authorized service pricing (often higher): typically $900–$1,800 or more, depending on the exact engine and included components.
Note: If your Legacy uses a timing chain rather than a belt, the service and cost profile differ. Chains generally don’t have a scheduled replacement interval, but when tensioners, guides, or related components wear, labor can still be significant. Always verify whether your engine is belt- or chain-driven for an accurate quote.
What affects the price
Several factors determine the final bill for a timing belt replacement beyond the basic belt-versus-chain distinction.
- Engine family and year: Different Legacy generations use different timing systems and kit parts, affecting both price and labor time.
- Scope of the service: Replacing just the belt is cheaper than replacing the belt kit with a water pump, seals, thermostat, and coolant.
- Labor rates and location: Urban areas and dealer shops typically charge more per hour than independent repair shops.
- Parts quality: OEM (dealer) parts are usually pricier than aftermarket alternatives but may come with longer warranties.
- Vehicle condition and accessibility: If access to the timing cover is difficult or if extra components must be removed, labor time increases.
To manage costs, request written, itemized quotes from multiple shops and ask which components are included (water pump, thermostat, gaskets, coolant) and what warranties apply to parts and labor.
DIY and maintenance tips
Replacing a timing belt is a major mechanical job that requires precise timing alignment and the right tools. If you’re considering DIY, obtain the exact repair manual for your Legacy’s year and engine, and use a complete timing belt kit with a new water pump and tensioners. Incorrect installation can cause catastrophic engine damage.
- Obtain multiple quotes to compare parts and labor; look for a clear breakdown of what’s included in the price.
- Ask about warranties on both parts and labor (commonly 2–3 years or 24,000–36,000 miles for labor, and similar for parts).
- Consider replacing the water pump and timing belt seals at the same time to avoid a second major service later.
Summary: Staying ahead of the maintenance schedule is crucial for belt-driven Subarus. If you’re unsure about your Legacy’s engine type or timing schedule, check the owner’s manual or consult a trusted mechanic for an accurate quote and proper timing procedure.
Summary
For most belt-driven Subaru Legacy models, expect roughly $600–$1,400 at an independent shop and $1,000–$2,000 at a dealership, with belt-only replacements on the lower end and full belt-kit replacements (including a water pump) on the higher end. Prices vary by generation, engine type (belt vs chain), location, and the components included. Verifying your exact engine configuration and obtaining multiple quotes will help ensure you get a fair price and proper workmanship.
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.
Do subarus have timing belt problems?
Just like rubber accessory belts under the hood, the timing belt may stretch and crack over time. And since modern Subaru engines are interference engines, that means that a broken timing belt could cause severe damage to the engine! That's why it's crucial to get the timing belt on your Subaru changed before it fails.
How much does it cost to replace a timing belt on a 2013 Subaru Legacy?
$909-$1,011
Sample Timing Belt Replacement Costs, Parts and Labor
| Honda Odyssey, 2010 | $1,283-$1,418 |
|---|---|
| Toyota Camry, 1998 | $941-$1,047 |
| Subaru Legacy, 2013 | $909-$1,011 |
| Hyundai Santa Fe, 2005 | $833-$927 |
| Subaru Forester, 2002 | $805-$909 |
When should you change the timing belt on a Subaru Legacy?
Subaru recommends a timing belt replacement every 105,000 miles or seven years, whichever comes first, though some older models may have different schedules. It is critical to replace the timing belt on time, as the Legacy engine is an interference engine, meaning a broken belt can cause severe internal damage. When replacing the belt, it is highly recommended to also replace the tensioner, idler pulleys, and water pump to prevent future failures.
Replacement schedule
- For most modern Subaru Legacy models: Replace the timing belt every 105,000 miles or every seven years, based on Subaru's recommendation.
- For older models:
- Pre-1993: Replace every 60,000 miles.
- 1993-1997 (non-CA): Replace every 60,000 miles.
- 1993-1997 (CA models): Inspect every 30,000 miles and replace at 105,000 miles.
- 1999 and later: Inspect every 30,000 miles or 30 months, replace at 105,000 miles or 105 months.
Important considerations
- Interference engine: The Subaru Legacy uses an interference engine. If the timing belt breaks, the pistons can collide with the valves, causing major engine damage.
- Recommended service: Because the belt is driven by a timing belt tensioner and idler pulleys, it is best to replace all of these components at the same time. The tensioner, in particular, has been a point of failure on some Subaru models.
- Inspect other components: It is also a good time to inspect and replace the water pump, camshaft seals, and crankshaft seal, as they will need to be removed to access the timing belt anyway.
- Consult your owner's manual: The most accurate information for your specific vehicle can be found in your owner's manual or by consulting a Subaru service department.
