Which Subaru engines have a timing chain?
Subaru engines that feature a timing chain rather than a timing belt include the popular Boxer engines found in many Subaru models. These timing chain engines provide several benefits over their timing belt counterparts, including increased durability and reduced maintenance requirements.
Subaru Boxer Engines with Timing Chains
Subaru's Boxer engines, known for their horizontally-opposed cylinder layout, often utilize timing chains instead of timing belts. Some of the Subaru Boxer engines with timing chains include:
- 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer engine (FA24F) found in the Subaru Ascent, Outback, and Legacy models
- 2.4-liter naturally aspirated Boxer engine (FB24) found in the Subaru Ascent, Outback, and Legacy models
- 2.5-liter naturally aspirated Boxer engine (FB25) found in the Subaru Forester, Impreza, and Crosstrek models
- 3.6-liter naturally aspirated Boxer engine (EZ36D) found in the Subaru Outback and Ascent models
These Subaru Boxer engines with timing chains are designed to provide long-lasting performance and reliability, as timing chains typically have a longer lifespan than timing belts.
Benefits of Timing Chains
Subaru's use of timing chains in their Boxer engines offers several advantages over timing belts:
- Increased Durability: Timing chains are generally more durable and less prone to wear and tear than timing belts, which can stretch or break over time.
- Reduced Maintenance: Timing chains typically do not require periodic replacement like timing belts, reducing the overall maintenance costs for Subaru owners.
- Improved Reliability: The robust design of timing chains helps ensure the engine's valvetrain components remain properly synchronized, contributing to the overall reliability of Subaru's Boxer engines.
By incorporating timing chains in their Boxer engines, Subaru has been able to provide drivers with a more dependable and low-maintenance powertrain option, further enhancing the brand's reputation for quality and durability.
What year did Subaru switch to timing chains?
Simply, then, a 1997 to 2011 Forester will have a timing belt, while any of the fourth-gen Foresters (from 2013 or later) will have a timing chain. And for a brief period from 2011 to 2012, the Forester was fitted with either a timing belt or a timing chain depending on which engine was fitted.
How do I know if my Subaru has a timing belt or chain?
Cars with a timing belt have a plastic cover near the engine block (often to the left-hand side), which provides easy access to the belt. It needs changing at regular intervals, which is why the removable cover is necessary. In cars with a timing chain, you won't see a plastic cover.
What Subaru models have a timing chain?
All Foresters from 2011 onward (2014 for the XT) have a timing chain.
Does 2025 Forester have a timing belt or chain?
2025 Subaru Forester Engine Timing Chain.
