Subaru has been using timing belts in their vehicles since the 1970s. The timing belt is located under the engine’s valve cover and turns the camshaft, which opens and closes the valves. Subaru switched to a timing chain in 2006 for their 2.5-liter engines.
The timing chain is located in front of the engine and drives the oil pump, water pump, and balance shafts. Subaru’s decision to switch to a timing chain was based on several factors: durability, weight, and cost.
Subaru has been using timing chains in their vehicles since the early 1990s. However, some models may have received an upgrade to a timing belt at some point during their production. It’s not entirely clear when Subaru made the switch from timing chains to belts, but it seems to be somewhere around the mid-2000s.
While timing chains are generally more durable and require less maintenance than timing belts, they can still stretch and wear over time. If your Subaru is starting to make noise or is due for a tune-up, it’s a good idea to have the timing chain checked by a professional.
Credit: en.wikipedia.org
When Did Subaru Forester Go to a Timing Chain?
The Subaru Forester went to a timing chain in the year 2000. This was done in order to improve the reliability and longevity of the engine. The timing chain is a much stronger and more durable piece than the old style timing belt, and it does not need to be replaced nearly as often.
Do New Subarus Have Timing Chains?
Yes, all new Subarus have timing chains. Subaru switched from using timing belts to timing chains in 2006, and all subsequent models have used chains. Timing chains are generally more durable than timing belts and don’t need to be replaced as frequently.
Does a 2011 Subaru Have a Timing Belt Or Chain?
If you’re wondering whether your 2011 Subaru has a timing belt or chain, the answer is that it depends on the model. Some models do have timing chains, while others have timing belts. However, all Subarus made after 2013 have timing chains.
So if you have a newer model, you can rest assured that it has a timing chain.
What Year Outback Has Timing Chain?
Since its inception in 1996, the Subaru Outback has used a timing belt. However, starting with the 2014 model year, the Outback switched to a timing chain. So, any Subaru Outback manufactured from 2014 onward will have a timing chain rather than a timing belt.
The switch from a timing belt to a timing chain was made in order to improve the longevity and reliability of the engine. Timing belts are made of rubber and are subject to wear and tear over time, whereas timing chains are made of metal and are much more durable. As a result, switching to a timing chain should give owners of newer Subaru Outbacks peace of mind knowing that their engine is less likely to experience problems down the road.
Conclusion
Subaru switched to a timing chain in 2012. The timing belt was originally used because it is less expensive than a timing chain. However, the timing belt needs to be replaced every 60,000 miles or so, while a timing chain does not need to be replaced as often.
Subaru decided to switch to a timing chain because it is more durable and does not need to be replaced as often.
