Billy Covington If you’re in the market for a Subaru or looking to brush up on your car knowledge, you may be wondering whether Subaru vehicles come with timing chains or belts. Timing chains and belts are critical components of a car’s engine, and their failure can result in costly repairs. In this article, we explore the differences between timing chains and belts, which options Subaru cars come with, and the pros and cons of each choice.
Timing Chains vs. Timing Belts
Timing chains and belts are responsible for maintaining the timing of an engine’s valves, pistons, and camshaft. The timing chain is a metal chain that connects the camshaft to the engine’s crankshaft and drives the engine’s valve train. On the other hand, the timing belt is a rubber belt that connects the engine’s crankshaft to the camshaft. Unlike timing chains, timing belts require regular replacement.
Pros and Cons
One significant advantage of timing chains over belts is their durability. The metal used in making timing chains is more resistant to wear than the rubber used in timing belts. Timing chains are also quieter and require less maintenance. On the other hand, timing belts, although less durable, are quieter and more cost-effective to replace. Also, the failure of a timing belt is less likely to cause extensive engine damage than a timing chain.
Subaru Engines and Timing Chains/Belts
Subaru uses both timing chains and belts in their vehicles. The choice of whether to use a timing chain or belt in a particular engine depends on several factors, including engine size, horsepower output, and manufacturing costs.
Advantages and Disadvantages
The advantage of using a timing chain in Subaru cars is that it is more durable and requires less frequent replacement. Also, timing chains are more resistant to stretching, which can cause engine problems, and perform better in high-pressure situations.
The downside of using a timing chain is that they can be noisier than timing belts. Also, timing chains require regular maintenance to ensure they remain lubricated.
Timing belts, on the other hand, are quieter, less expensive to replace, and don’t require regular maintenance. However, they require replacement every 60,000 to 90,000 miles or are prone to damaging the engine due to wear and tear.
Subaru Models and Timing Chains/Belts
Subaru Forester, Legacy, Outback, and Crosstrek models use timing chains, while Subaru Impreza, WRX, and BRZ models use timing belts.
Maintenance Requirements and Costs
Timing chain maintenance typically consists of ensuring the links remain lubricated to prevent wear and tear. Timing belt maintenance requires belt replacement every 60,000 to 90,000 miles.
Regarding cost, timing chain replacement can be more expensive than a timing belt, but timing chains are more durable and require less frequent replacement.
FAQ
Q. How do I know if my Subaru has a timing chain or belt?
A. Check your car’s owner’s manual or consult with a certified Subaru mechanic.
Q. Can I replace a timing belt with a timing chain or vice versa?
A. It is not recommended to switch between timing chains and belts as it requires significant modifications to the engine.
Q. How often should I replace my timing chain/belt?
A. Timing chain maintenance typically consists of ensuring the links remain lubricated to prevent wear and tear. Timing belt maintenance requires belt replacement every 60,000 to 90,000 miles.
Conclusion
Subaru uses both timing chains and belts in their vehicles depending on various factors. While timing chains are more durable and require less frequent replacement, timing belts, despite being less durable and noisier, are cheaper to replace. Consult your car’s manual or a Subaru mechanic for specific maintenance info and costs. Ultimately, the choice of timing chain or belt relies on several factors, including the engine size, horsepower output, and manufacturing costs, so interested parties need to weigh their options carefully before selecting a vehicle with either timing mechanism.
