How much is a drive belt for a Subaru?
Serpentine belt costs for a Subaru are typically in the low hundreds when installed, with the belt itself usually under $100 and the total bill often between $100 and $250 depending on model and local labor rates. If your Subaru uses a timing belt, expect a higher price, generally several hundred dollars up to about $1,000 or more with labor included.
Types of drive belts in Subaru vehicles
Subaru vehicles use two main kinds of belts: the serpentine belt that drives accessory components, and the timing belt on older engines. Many newer Subarus have timing chains instead of timing belts, which affects replacement costs and schedules.
Serpentine belt (drive belt)
Prices below reflect common options for the belt itself and typical installed costs in U.S. shops. The exact price depends on model year, engine layout, and whether the shop also replaces worn tensioners or idlers.
- Aftermarket serpentine belt (non-OEM): roughly $25–$60
- OEM/ dealership belt (Subaru-branded): roughly $60–$90
- Premium or brand-name belts (Gates, Dayco, etc.): roughly $40–$70
Before listing typical belt options, note that the belt price is only part of the total completed cost. Labor and any additional parts can substantially affect the final price.
In most cases, the belt itself is the least expensive component, and labor—along with a tensioner or pulley if needed—drives the total price higher.
Timing belt (where applicable)
Not all Subaru engines use a timing belt; many newer models use a timing chain instead. For those that do require a belt, prices can rise due to the more involved replacement and the common practice of replacing related parts (tensioners, water pump) at the same time.
- Timing belt kit (belt, tensioner, idler): approximately $200–$450
- Water pump (often replaced with timing belt): approximately $50–$300
- Labor for timing belt replacement: approximately $350–$900
Before the timing belt list, consider that replacement complexity and parts vary by engine code and whether additional components are changed.
Prices can differ widely by model year, shop rates, and whether you opt to replace the water pump and other components as a precaution.
Summary
For most Subaru owners, the drive belt (serpentine belt) replacement will cost roughly $100–$250 installed, with the belt part itself usually under $100. Timing belt replacements, when required by the model, are significantly more expensive—generally in the $700–$1,400 range installed, depending on parts chosen and labor costs. Always verify exact pricing with your local shop or Subaru dealer, and consider whether the water pump and other related parts should be replaced at the same time to avoid future labor charges.
Can I drive with a bad drive belt?
Never drive with a messed up belt, especially not for 3 hours. If the belt breaks down and you lose, for example, the water pump the whole engine's gonna overheat. Repair it ASAP.
How much is a serpentine belt for a Subaru Outback?
The best part is, our Subaru Outback Serpentine Belts start from as little as $10.99. When it comes to your Subaru Outback, you want parts and products from only trusted brands. Here at Advance Auto Parts, we work with only top reliable Serpentine Belts brands so you can shop with complete confidence.
When should I replace my Subaru drive belt?
Generally, this replacement interval is between 50,000 and 100,000 miles.
How expensive is a drive belt?
You can expect a replacement drive belt to cost you anywhere between $20 and $70.
