What year did Subarus have timing chains?

Subarus began using timing chains with the FA/FB engine family around model year 2011. Older EJ-series engines relied on timing belts. In practice, newer engine designs from the early 2010s onward widely use timing chains, while many older models used belts.

Timeline and engine generations

A concise look at the two main engine generations relevant to timing-chain vs belt design in Subaru cars.

• EJ-series engines (the long-running pre-FA/FB family): typically use timing belts for their timing system.


• FA/FB engine family (introduced around 2010–2011): use timing chains for the timing system.

In short, Subaru’s transition toward timing chains occurred with the FA/FB era, and most models built from roughly 2011 onward are equipped with a chain-driven timing system. If you’re buying a used Subaru, checking the engine family and model year gives you a strong hint about whether it uses a belt or chain.

Maintenance implications

Because the timing belt and timing chain have different maintenance histories, owners should follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Timing belts must be replaced at specified intervals to prevent belt failure, which can cause engine damage. Timing chains generally require less frequent replacement but may need inspection or replacement for worn tensioners or guides at higher mileages. Always consult the owner's manual for your model and consult a trusted mechanic if you’re unsure.

Summary

Subaru moved from belt-driven timing in its older EJ-series engines to chain-driven timing with the FA/FB engine family around 2010–2011. This shift means most Subarus produced from the early 2010s onward use a timing chain, while older models with EJ engines used belts. Confirm by checking your specific model year and engine family in the owner's manual or a reputable service guide.

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. 

Do Subarus have timing chains?

The timing system is a crucial part of the modern internal combustion engine. Depending on what kind of engine your Subaru has, it may be equipped with either a timing belt or a timing chain.

What year did Subaru switch to timing chain?

Subaru began switching to timing chains on its non-turbo engines around 2011-2013, while its six-cylinder engines had timing chains much earlier, starting around 2001. The exact year a specific model switched depends on the engine, but most naturally aspirated four-cylinder engines used a timing belt until around 2013, while newer four-cylinder models (like the FB and FA series) have chains. For example, the FB engine (2011 Forester, 2012 Impreza, 2013 Legacy/Outback) transitioned to a timing chain, while most turbocharged engines continued to use belts until a later switch. 
Timing chains for 4-cylinder engines

• FB series: Started in 2011 in the Forester, 2012 in the Impreza, and 2013 in the Legacy/Outback. 
• FA series: Began in 2014 in the Forester XT and 2015 in the Legacy/Outback, and are used in many newer models. 
• Turbocharged models: The switch to chains happened later for some turbocharged engines. For example, the EJ255 (2.5L turbo) was used in U.S. models until 2013, after which newer turbocharged engines like the FA20DIT (2.0L turbo) began to be phased in around 2014. 

Timing chains for 6-cylinder engines

• EZ30/EZ36 series: All 6-cylinder engines (3.0L and 3.6L) have used timing chains since approximately 2001. 

How to tell for a specific Subaru

• Model year: If your Subaru was manufactured after 2013, it is highly likely to have a timing chain, with the exception of the WRX STI. 
• Engine type: If you have a 6-cylinder engine, it will have a timing chain. However, some 4-cylinder engines may still have a belt. 
• Visual inspection: If the timing cover is made of aluminum, it likely uses a timing chain, whereas a plastic timing cover indicates a timing belt. 

Does a 2012 Subaru Forester have a timing belt or timing chain?

The 2012 Subaru Forester has either a timing belt or a timing chain, depending on the engine. The non-turbo 2.5L model with the FB engine uses a timing chain, while the turbo model (XT) with the EJ255 engine has a timing belt that needs replacement around 105,000 miles or 10 years. 
Timing chain (non-turbo 2.5L)

• Description: The timing chain is a metal chain designed to last the lifetime of the engine with proper maintenance.
• Maintenance: Proper engine oil care is crucial to prevent wear on the chain, tensioners, and guides.
• Replacement: No scheduled replacement is needed unless an issue arises. 

Timing belt (turbo XT model)

• Description: A rubber belt that synchronizes the engine's crankshaft and camshafts. 
• Maintenance: Requires scheduled replacement to prevent engine damage. 
• Replacement: The recommended interval is approximately every 105,000 miles or 10 years, whichever comes first. 

How to tell which one you have

• Check your vehicle's specifications: Look at the engine type to confirm if it's the FB (chain) or EJ255 (belt). 
• Visual inspection (if you know what to look for):
  • A large, silver, aluminum timing chain cover usually indicates a timing chain. 
  • If the oil filter is upside-down on the left front of the engine, it's often a timing chain. If the oil filter is underneath the engine, it's often a timing belt.