When to replace a Subaru Legacy timing belt?
As a car owner, understanding the maintenance needs of your vehicle is crucial for its longevity and performance. One of the most important components in your Subaru Legacy is the timing belt. This article will guide you through the signs that indicate when it's time to replace your timing belt, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently.
Understanding the Timing Belt
The timing belt is a critical part of your engine's operation. It synchronizes the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft, ensuring that the engine's valves open and close at the proper times during each cylinder's intake and exhaust strokes. A failure in the timing belt can lead to severe engine damage, making timely replacement essential.
When to Replace the Timing Belt
Subaru recommends replacing the timing belt in the Legacy every 105,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first. However, there are several factors that can influence this timeline:
- Age of the Vehicle: Even if you haven't reached the mileage limit, if your Subaru is older than 7 years, it's wise to consider a replacement.
- Driving Conditions: If you frequently drive in harsh conditions, such as extreme temperatures or heavy traffic, you may need to replace the timing belt sooner.
- Signs of Wear: Look for signs of wear such as cracks,
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you check if timing belt needs replacing?
However, there are also a few tell-tale signs to look out for that could mean it's time to get your belt checked.
- A misfiring engine. The cam belt runs through a series of pulleys that operate the camshaft and crankshaft.
- Rough idling.
- Trouble starting the engine.
- Changes in the appearance of the belt.
- A squealing noise.
When should I replace my timing belt on my Subaru Legacy?
The mileage interval recommendation can vary anywhere from 60,000 to 90,000 mile intervals, with some recommended for replacement at 105,000 miles. We at Subaru Clinic recommend you replace your timing belt at 105,000 miles.
How much does it cost to replace a timing belt on a Subaru Legacy?
$409 to $919
The real cost is in the labor, because a lot of parts need to be disassembled to get to the belt. Shopping around to get a few quotes is your best bet to get the best deal, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $409 to $919 (including parts and labor).
How can you tell if a timing belt needs replacing?
Signs Your Timing Belt Needs to be Replaced
- Ticking noise from under the hood when the engine is running.
- The engine doesn't start.
- The engine misfiring while driving.
- Oil leaking from the front-side of where the motor is under the hood.
- Hydroplaning while driving in wet weather conditions.
- Check engine light is on.
How do you know when timing belt needs replacement?
The most common signs that your timing belt needs to be replaced include:
- Ticking noise from under the hood when the engine is running.
- The engine doesn't start.
- The engine misfiring while driving.
- Oil leaking from the front-side of where the motor is under the hood.
- Hydroplaning while driving in wet weather conditions.
Will a timing belt last 200,000 miles?
In general, however, timing belts needs to be replaced from 60,000 miles up to 150,000 miles.
What are the signs of a bad timing belt?
Signs Your Timing Belt Needs to be Replaced
- Ticking noise from under the hood when the engine is running.
- The engine doesn't start.
- The engine misfiring while driving.
- Oil leaking from the front-side of where the motor is under the hood.
- Hydroplaning while driving in wet weather conditions.
- Check engine light is on.
Can a timing belt last 30 years?
Over the first 20 to 30 years of their existence, manufacturers usually recommend replacing them between 45,000 and 60,000 miles. There are manufacturers that suggest replacing these belts every 30,000 miles. Over time, rubber compounds have become more durable making replacements up to 100,000 miles or even more.
How long can a Subaru timing belt last?
Subaru timing belts need to be replaced after seven years or 105,000 miles; whichever comes first. Replacement cost starts at $530 (will vary by model)
How do I know if my Subaru needs a new timing belt?
The experts at Subaru of Clear Lake will happily let you know the signs of a bad 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.
