How often does a Subaru need a timing belt?
In general, Subarus with timing belts require replacement around 105,000 miles (about 7 years), but most newer Subaru engines use timing chains and do not have a scheduled belt replacement. The exact interval depends on the model year and engine family, so checking your owner's manual is essential.
belt-driven versus chain-driven Subaru engines
Subaru’s engine lineup has evolved, with older models relying on timing belts and many newer models moving to timing chains. The replacement interval, if applicable, and maintenance needs hinge on which engine in your car uses a belt rather than a chain.
Which Subarus historically used timing belts
In the past, several EJ-series engines (common in late 1990s through the 2000s) used timing belts. Vehicles such as certain Impreza, Forester, Legacy, and Outback models from that era typically required belt maintenance at regular intervals.
- Belt-driven engines: EJ-series 2.0L/2.2L/2.5L variants were common in older Subaru lineups.
- Maintenance note: these belts required replacement on a fixed interval (traditionally around 100,000–105,000 miles, or about 7 years).
Maintenance specifics depend on exact model and year; always verify with the owner's manual or a dealer for your vehicle.
Which Subarus use timing chains now
Most modern Subarus use timing chains (not belts), including many of the FA/FB engine families introduced in the 2010s and later. These chains are designed for longer life and do not have a fixed replacement interval under normal driving.
- Chain-driven engines: FA/FB-based platforms (common in newer Impreza, Forester, Outback, Legacy, and Crosstrek models) use timing chains.
- Maintenance note: chains typically don’t have a scheduled replacement; service focuses on tensioners, guides, and related components if issues arise.
Again, check your specific model/year to confirm whether your engine uses a belt or a chain.
Timing belt replacement intervals by engine family
Before listing intervals, note that only belt-driven engines have a scheduled replacement. For belt-driven Subaru engines, the typical replacement window is roughly 105,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first. Some manuals list 100,000 to 105,000 miles as the threshold; confirm from your model’s documentation.
- Older EJ-series belt-driven engines: commonly recommended around 100,000–105,000 miles, or about 7 years.
- Newer FA/FB chain-driven engines: no fixed belt interval; rely on chain longevity with periodic inspection of tensioners and guides as part of routine maintenance.
If your vehicle is belt-driven, plan the replacement proactively and consider replacing the water pump and belt tensioners at the same time for reliability.
What to do if you’re unsure which engine you have
To avoid surprises, verify your engine type and maintenance schedule. You can:
- Check the owner's manual for the recommended belt/chain maintenance interval.
- Look up the engine code (EJ versus FA/FB) on the engine cover or vehicle documentation.
- Ask a Subaru dealer or qualified independent shop to confirm whether your model uses a belt or a chain.
Understanding your exact engine type will guide your maintenance plan and avoid costly failures.
Signs of timing belt wear or failure to watch for
Be alert for warning signs that a belt may need replacement or has failed, especially on belt-driven engines.
- Visible cracking, fraying, or missing segments on the belt
- Ticking or rattling noises coming from the engine, particularly at startup
- Engine misfires, rough running, or loss of power
- Engine won’t start or stalls after starting
- Coolant leaks or overheating near the belt area (in some configurations)
If you notice any of these symptoms, stop driving and have the vehicle inspected promptly to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Practical maintenance tips for Subaru owners
For belt-driven engines, consider these best practices to minimize risk and unexpected downtime.
- Schedule belt replacement at the recommended interval (often around 105,000 miles or 7 years) and perform the water pump and tensioners simultaneously when feasible.
- For chain-driven engines, adhere to general maintenance schedules, and inspect tensioners/ guides at regular service intervals or at high mileage.
- Keep a maintenance log and consult the dealer for model-specific guidance.
Being proactive with maintenance helps avoid belt or chain failures and keeps your Subaru running reliably.
Summary
In short, whether your Subaru needs a timing belt—and how often—depends on the engine family. Belt-driven engines (historically EJ-series) typically require belt replacement around 105,000 miles or 7 years. Most newer Subarus rely on timing chains (FA/FB engines), which do not have a fixed replacement interval but should be inspected as part of routine maintenance. Always check your specific model-year manual or consult a Subaru technician to confirm the correct schedule for your vehicle. Planning ahead and performing related replacements, such as the water pump and tensioners, can prevent costly breakdowns.
What year to stay away from a Subaru Outback?
Years to avoid for the Subaru Outback include 2010–2014, which had widespread CVT, oil consumption, and oil leak issues, and 2018, which had recalls and reliability concerns. Additionally, some sources recommend avoiding the 2005–2007 models due to head gasket problems and the 2020 model, which had electrical and windshield issues.
Years to avoid
- 2010–2014: These models are frequently cited for significant transmission issues (CVT), oil consumption, and general reliability problems. The 2010 model specifically had issues with the torque converter locking up.
- 2018: This year saw recalls and owner complaints related to oil consumption, exhaust components, and electrical issues.
- 2005–2007: These models are known for head gasket failures, which can cause coolant and oil leaks.
- 2020: This model year is associated with a high number of electrical problems, including dead batteries and stalling, as well as issues with the windshield cracking from small chips.
Other potential problem years
- 2013: Frequently mentioned for oil consumption issues.
- 2015: Some reports list it with electrical and engine problems.
- 2017: Reliability issues were noted.
How do I know if my Subaru needs a new timing belt?
A failing timing belt may show a myriad of symptoms, such as noises coming from the front of the vehicle, engine misfires, and decreased engine performance. In many situations, if the timing belt breaks, the engine will no longer run, and the engine will not restart without replacing the timing belt.
How often should I replace my Subaru timing belt?
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.
What year did Subaru quit using timing belts?
Timing belts needed to be replaced at about 100K intervals, but timing chains were considered life of the vehicle items. Both Outbacks and Foresters were switched to timing chains for 2013 model year.
