What year did Subaru stop using the timing belt?
Subaru stopped using timing belts in most of its modern engines by the 2010 model year, and subsequent engine families have used timing chains.
How the shift unfolded
The switch from timing belts to timing chains didn’t happen overnight. Subaru’s long-running EJ-series engines, which powered many models from the 1990s through the 2000s, relied on timing belts. As Subaru developed new engine families designed for better durability and lower maintenance, it began adopting timing chains in the FA and FB engines, which began appearing in models around 2010–2011. By the early-to-mid 2010s, the vast majority of new Subarus used timing chains rather than belts, and today chains are standard on virtually all mainstream Subaru powerplants in North America and many other markets.
Here's a concise pull-quote-style timeline of the major milestones in Subaru's transition from timing belts to timing chains:
- Late 1990s to around 2009: EJ-series engines used timing belts; maintenance often included belt replacement at a fixed interval.
- Around 2010–2011 model years: Subaru introduced FA and FB engine families that use timing chains.
- From approximately 2011 onward: Most new Subaru models featured timing chains, with few or no belt-driven designs remaining in the lineup.
In summary, the belt era effectively ended as Subaru rolled out the FA/FB engines, with widespread adoption by the 2011 model year and continuing into the present.
What it means for Subaru owners
Maintenance implications changed significantly with the shift to timing chains. While timing belts required periodic replacement (often around the 100,000-mile mark), timing chains generally require less routine service for wear. However, chain systems still have potential failure points, such as tensioners, guides, and seals, so a newer model still benefits from regular inspection as part of routine service.
Maintenance considerations for different model years
For older Subarus with belt-driven engines (primarily EJ-era models): adhere to the manufacturer’s belt replacement interval to avoid catastrophic engine damage. For newer Subarus with chain-driven engines (FA/FB and later): follow the service schedule for chain-related components and be mindful of unusual noises or timing-related issues as the vehicle ages.
Regional and model-year nuances
There are a few regional or market-specific exceptions; some late-2000s vehicles in certain regions might still have belt-driven designs for a short period. Always verify the exact engine code and model year when checking maintenance needs for a specific vehicle.
Summary
Subaru’s transition from timing belts to timing chains began in earnest with the introduction of the FA and FB engines around 2010–2011, and by the 2011 model year most new Subarus used timing chains. This shift reduced belt-maintenance requirements for most owners, though ongoing maintenance for chain systems remains important to prevent unexpected failures. Always confirm the engine type for any used Subaru to understand the appropriate maintenance schedule.
