How much does it cost to replace a timing belt on a Subaru?
A typical timing belt replacement for a Subaru runs about $600 to $1,200 at an independent shop, with higher prices at a dealership; if your model uses a timing chain instead, you may not need a belt replacement at all. Prices vary by model, parts included, and local labor rates.
What affects the price
Several factors determine the final bill for a timing belt replacement on a Subaru, including the engine type, the inclusions in the kit, labor rates, and whether you’re using a dealership or an independent shop.
- Engine type and model year: Different Subaru engines have different belt configurations and service intervals, and some newer engines use timing chains instead of belts.
- Kit contents: A timing belt replacement can involve just the belt or a full kit with tensioners, idlers, a water pump, thermostat, seals, and coolant.
- Labor rates and time: Labor costs vary by region and by shop; typical jobs take several hours depending on access and complexity.
- Parts quality and source: OEM versus aftermarket parts can affect price and warranty, and some shops include coolant and gaskets in the service.
- Additional repairs or maintenance: If the belt has caused damage or if other components (like the water pump or cooling system) need service, the total cost rises.
Understanding these factors helps clarify why two nearly identical jobs can have different final prices and why it’s important to get a detailed estimate before work begins.
Typical cost ranges by service setup
Below are general ranges you might expect, depending on where you go and what’s included. These figures reflect common scenarios for belt-driven Subaru engines.
- Independent shop – belt-only replacement (no water pump): about $300 to $600 in parts and labor, depending on shop rate and engine access.
- Independent shop – belt replacement with water pump kit: roughly $600 to $1,000, plus coolant and basic gaskets.
- Independent shop – premium parts or dealer-grade service: around $800 to $1,400, depending on model and included components.
- Dealership or authorized service center – belt with water pump and OEM parts: typically $900 to $1,800 or more, depending on model and local labor rates.
In practice, most belt-driven Subarus fall into a broad range of about $600 to $1,400, with higher-end models or dealer service tending toward the upper end of that spectrum. Always confirm whether the water pump and other components are included in the quote, and consider whether you’ll need additional cooling system work.
Timing belt vs. timing chain: what you should know
Many Subaru engines produced in recent years use timing chains rather than belts, which do not require a routine belt replacement. If your engine uses a belt, plan for replacement around the manufacturer’s interval, typically around 90,000 to 105,000 miles (varies by model). If you’re unsure which system your Subaru uses, check the owner’s manual or ask the service adviser to confirm before work begins. A belt failure can cause substantial engine damage in many Subaru models, so timely replacement is important.
What to ask your shop
When getting estimates, ask these questions to avoid surprises: Is the water pump included? Are tensioners, idlers, and seals replaced? Is coolant included in the price? What brand are the parts, and does the quote include a gasket set and thermostat? How many hours of labor are estimated, and is a warranty provided on parts and workmanship?
Summary
For most belt-driven Subarus, plan for $600–$1,400 to replace the timing belt with a typical kit (belt, tensioners, idlers, water pump, coolant). Prices vary by engine, parts included, labor rates, and whether you use an independent shop or a dealership. If your Subaru uses a timing chain instead of a belt, you won’t be facing a belt replacement at regular intervals. Always confirm what’s included in the estimate and whether additional cooling-system work is recommended.
Bottom line
To budget effectively, identify your exact Subaru model and engine, verify whether the service includes the water pump and other components, and obtain multiple quotes from reputable shops. This helps ensure you’re paying a fair price for a service that protects the engine’s reliability and longevity.
How often should a Subaru timing belt be changed?
The Subaru timing belt interval is generally 105,000 miles or seven years, whichever comes first, although some older models or specific conditions may have different recommendations. It is crucial to follow the recommended replacement schedule to avoid catastrophic engine damage, which can occur if the belt breaks. Some mechanics recommend a more frequent interval, such as every 60,000 miles, especially with aftermarket parts or in harsh driving conditions.
This video explains the difference between timing belts and timing chains in Subaru engines: 51sMrSubaru1387YouTube · May 18, 2025
- Standard interval: Replace the timing belt at 105,000 miles or seven years, whichever occurs first.
- Older models: Vehicles prior to 1993 and 1993-1997 models (except in California) had a 60,000-mile interval.
- California models: 1993-1997 Subaru models in California had an inspection every 30,000 miles and a replacement at 105,000 miles.
- Model year 1999 and later: The interval is 105,000 miles or 105 months, with inspections recommended every 30,000 miles or 30 months.
- Harsh conditions: Consider replacing the belt sooner than the recommended interval if you frequently drive in extreme weather, make many short trips, or have high mileage.
- Risk of failure: A broken timing belt can cause severe and expensive engine damage, making it a critical maintenance item.
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 2014 Subaru?
The real cost is in the labor, because a lot of parts need to be disassembled to get to the belt. Shopping around to get a few quotes is your best bet to get the best deal, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $409 to $919 (including parts and labor).
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.
