Does a 2004 Subaru Forester have a timing belt or timing chain?

All 2004 Subaru Forester models have a timing belt and an interference engine.

How much does it cost to replace a timing belt on a Subaru?

Typically, you’re going to be paying somewhere between $550 and $1,000 to get a timing belt replaced in a Subaru Outback. The average price hovers around $700. Depending on where you get the job done can also affect the price of your Subaru Outback timing belt replacement job pretty significantly.

How long does a timing belt last on Subaru Forester?

Although timing belts are critical, there’s no need to replace them regularly –unless explicitly recommended in your Subaru owner’s manual. Some automakers recommend changing a timing belt between 60,000 and 100,000, others don’t. Many of today’s timing belts can go 100,000 miles or more without needing to be replaced.

When should a timing belt be replaced on a Subaru?

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)

What year did Subaru fix the head gasket problem?

After 2009, newer models using the EL25 2.5-liter engine should have far fewer head gasket problems because Subaru started using a multi-layered steel cylinder-head gasket. Starting in 2012, reports say the Japanese automaker redesigned the 2.5-liter engine in the Forester and Outback and has fixed the problem.

Why do Subarus have head gasket problems?

The main reason that they have the issues is because they share the 2.5-liter SOHC engine. Although any internal combustion engine might undergo a head gasket failure, Subaru’s specific models are more susceptible to the issue and more known for having this issue frequently occur in many of their models.

What happens if the timing belt breaks on a Subaru?

Just like rubber accessory belts under the hood, the timing belt may stretch and crack over time. And since modern Subaru engines are interference engines, that means that a broken timing belt could cause severe damage to the engine!

How much does it cost to replace a head gasket on a Subaru?

The average base head gasket job for a 2.5-liter engine is $1,500 to $1,800 that’s including Parts & Labor. Adding additional items such as Timing Belt & Components, Water Pump, Spark Plugs & Oil Seals, etc runs in the range of $2,200 to $2700.

What year Subaru has head gasket problems?

Subaru head gasket problems are prevalent in 2006 in every model except for the Baja. Subaru head gasket problems are in every model in 2007 except for the Baja. In 2010, the problems affected the Subaru Forester and Impreza. By 2011, the Subaru Impreza was the only model that experienced head gasket problems.

What happens when a timing belt breaks on a Subaru Forester?

If the timing belt breaks completely, there’ll be no connection between the engine’s driveshaft and camshaft(s) and the engine will stall and won’t be able to start. The timing system operates the engine valves — without it, the engine simply can’t get going.

Do you need a timing belt on a Subaru Forester?

Engine Type Timing Belt Or Chain Interference Or Non-Interference Replacement Interval (Miles) Replacement Kits For Purchase 2.5L 4 Cyl. 170 hp (FB25 H4) timing chain interference lifetime Amazon 2.0L 4 Cyl. 250 hp (FA20F H4) timing chain interference lifetime Amazon 2016 Subaru Forester – Timing Belt Or Chain

When did Subaru stop using a timing chain?

From model years 2011 to 2013 the naturally aspirated Foresters have timing chains while the turbo Foresters have timing belts. Prior to 2013 all Foresters have timing belts. All Forester engines are interference.

What causes a Subaru Forester to not start?

Engine Won’t Start – If your Forester’s timing chain or belt has fallen off completely, broken, or has jumped a few teeth, it is entirely possible that the engine won’t even start. You might hear it slapping around as the engine cranks over. If this is the case, the damage is already done.

What does the tensioner do on a Subaru Forester?

The tensioners job is to keep the right amount of pressure on your Subaru Forester’s timing belt or chain. As the belt/chain stretches through normal operation, it would get loose and fall off or jump. The tensioner keeps this from happening by keeping a consistent amount of force on the belt.