When did Subaru change to a timing chain?
The switch to timing chains began with Subaru’s new FB engine family around the 2010-2011 model years, and by the mid-decade most mainstream Subarus used chain-driven timing. Older EJ-series engines still powered some models and markets for a time, but the broader lineup moved to chains as new designs arrived.
That transition did not happen overnight. Subaru steadily phased out belt-driven camshafts as it updated its engines and platforms, a change driven by reliability concerns with belts and a desire to reduce maintenance for customers. The following timeline and model highlights explain when and where the change occurred, and what it means for maintenance and ownership today.
Background: Why timing chains?
Timing chains are generally designed to last the life of the engine under normal driving, unlike timing belts which require regular replacement. Subaru’s move to chain-driven camshafts was motivated by a combination of reliability improvements, simplified maintenance schedules, and alignment with broader industry trends toward chain-based timing in newer engines. The shift began in the early 2010s with the new engine families and gradually rolled through the lineup.
Milestones in Subaru’s transition
The following milestones illustrate when the company began using timing chains across its engines and models.
- 2010–2011: Introduction of the FB engine family (2.0L and 2.5L) with chain-driven camshafts.
- 2011–2012: Broad adoption of FB-series engines across core models such as Impreza, Forester, and Outback/Legacy lines.
- 2012: The BRZ (and Toyota 86) launches with the FA20D family, a chain-driven engine, marking a notable shift in Subaru’s sport-compact lineup.
- Mid-2010s: Gradual completion of the transition across most mainstream models, with very few new belt-driven engines remaining in production.
These milestones show how the transition unfolded across model years and markets, moving from belts to chains in most new Subarus by the middle of the decade.
Which Subaru models were affected
Below is a representative snapshot of models that shifted to timing-chain engines during the transition period and into later years.
- Impreza (2011 onward) – largely updated to FB-series engines with timing chains.
- Forester (2011 onward) – aligned with chain-driven FB engines across most trims.
- Outback and Legacy (2010 onward) – commonly featuring FB-series engines with chains.
- XV/Crosstrek (2013 onward) – adopted FB engines, moving to chain timing.
- BRZ / Toyota 86 (2012 onward) – uses the FA20D/FA-series chain-driven timing.
In each case, the move to a timing-chain design reduced the need for belt replacements, though maintenance still depends on the specific engine family and model year. If you’re unsure about your vehicle, check the engine type listed in your VIN or owner’s manual.
Maintenance implications
Timing chains typically do not require the scheduled replacement intervals that timing belts do. However, they still rely on proper lubrication and can be affected by wear in tensioners and guides. Subaru owners should follow the maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual, pay attention to any unusual engine sounds, and have inspections performed if you notice chain-related symptoms or high-mileage aging of chain components.
In practice, this means: keep up with regular oil changes, drive with normal maintenance in mind, and have any chain-related noises or rattles diagnosed promptly. The exact inspection intervals and potential repair needs vary by engine family and model year, so refer to your vehicle’s documentation for specifics.
Summary
Subaru’s move from timing belts to timing chains began in earnest with the introduction of the FB engine family around 2010–2011. By the mid-2010s, the majority of new Subarus used chain-driven timing across the lineup, with some older EJ-era designs continuing briefly in certain markets or models. For most owners today, the shift means less frequent maintenance related to timing belts, though regular maintenance remains essential to keep chains and tensioners in good condition.
