What year did Subaru go to a timing chain?
Subaru began using timing chains in its mainstream engines starting with the 2011 model year, marking a shift away from traditional timing belts in the brand’s core designs. The transition progressed through the 2010s, and today timing chains are standard on most Subaru engines.
In practice, this shift means newer Subaru powertrains—particularly the FB and FA engine families—are designed around timing chains rather than belts. While the belt-driven EJ family is largely retired from new production, some late-2010s models still reflect the final stages of that transition in specific variants or markets, but the overarching trend favors chain-driven timing across the lineup.
Timeline of the switch to timing chains
Below are the key milestones that illustrate how Subaru moved from belts to chains across its engine families and model years.
- 2011 model year: Introduction of the FB engine family (2.0L and 2.5L) with chain-driven timing in core models such as Impreza, Forester, and Legacy, signaling the start of the belt-to-chain transition.
- 2012–2014: Expansion of chain-driven designs across additional models as older EJ belt engines are phased out in new production.
- Mid- to late-2010s: Widespread adoption of FA-series engines (including FA20D and related variants) and continued use of timing chains in most new Subarus, including turbocharged and naturally aspirated options.
- Late 2010s to present: Introduction of newer engines such as the FA24 2.4L (used in models like the Outback and Ascent) with chain-driven timing, reinforcing the chain-based design across the lineup.
Across these milestones, Subaru’s shift to timing chains meant fewer routine belt replacements for owners, though chain tensioners, guides, and oil cleanliness still require regular maintenance and occasional service.
What this means for owners and maintenance
The move to timing chains generally reduces long-term maintenance costs because chains typically last longer than belts. However, failing tensioners or guides can still cause noise or timing issues, and some models may require timing-chain service at certain mileage intervals.
Summary: Subaru began moving to timing chains with the 2011 model year, expanding across its engine families (FB, FA, and later FA24). By the mid to late 2010s, most Subaru models used chain-driven timing, marking a significant shift from the belt-based designs of earlier EJ engines.
Which Subaru has a timing chain?
2010-2012 Outbacks with the 2.5 SOHC (EJ253) have a timing belt. 2013-2014 Outbacks with the 2.5 DOHC (FB25) have a timing chain. And the Outbacks with the 3.6 (EZ36) have chains as well.
Does a 2005 Subaru Outback have a timing belt or chain?
2005 Outbacks have timing belts that wear out at about 80 to 100k miles. They don't have timing chains. Newer Subaru models do have timing chains. Replacing the belt requires pulling the engine.
Does the Subaru 3.6 have a timing chain?
Subaru doesn't have a service interval for chains. No issues with them although they will “stretch” over a long period of time. If it's the 3.6R motor then the timing CHAIN does not need to be replaced unless there is an issue with it not being in time correctly.
What years did Subaru have engine problems?
Subaru had significant engine problems during 1996–2010 due to head gasket failures, particularly in the 2.5-liter engine. Other problematic years include 2008–2014 for certain WRX/STI models with bearing issues, and 2011–2015 for various models with excessive oil consumption due to problems with the FB engine's piston rings.
Head gasket failures (1996–2010)
- Models affected: Primarily the 2.5-liter engine in models like the Outback, Legacy, and Forester.
- Symptoms: White smoke, coolant leaking into oil, and fluctuating engine temperature.
- Resolution: Subaru addressed this by using multi-layer stainless steel head gaskets and larger head bolts in later models, with fixes becoming more consistent around 2012.
Bearing and other performance issues (2008–2014)
- Models affected: The performance-oriented WRX and WRX STI.
- Symptoms: Bearing failure in the EJ series engines, which could lead to major engine rebuilds or replacements.
- Resolution: A class-action lawsuit alleged that insufficient oil supply to connecting rod bearings contributed to this problem.
Excessive oil consumption (2011–2015)
- Models affected: Early FB engine models in the Forester (2011–2015), Crosstrek (2013–2015), Impreza (2012–2015), and Legacy/Outback (2013–2014).
- Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption.
- Resolution: This was due to a change in piston ring design to improve fuel economy, which was less effective at scraping oil. Subaru has since updated the design, with models from 2011 onwards (Forester), 2012 onwards (Impreza), and 2013 onwards (Legacy/Outback/Crosstrek) seeing improvements.
