When Should You Replace the Timing Belt on a Subaru Impreza?

AvatarByCarl Frisch

The Subaru Impreza timing belt is a critical component in the engine of your Subaru Impreza. It helps to power the camshafts, which are responsible for opening and closing the valves in the engine. The timing belt is designed to last for about 60,000 miles or four years, whichever comes first. If it breaks or wears out prematurely, it can cause serious damage to your engine. Therefore, it’s important to replace the belt at its recommended interval. Replacement typically involves removing and replacing several other components of the engine, such as gaskets and seals. This can be a complicated job that requires special tools and expertise; therefore, it’s best left to a professional mechanic.

Automobile: Subaru Impreza Timing Belt Replacement

Timing belt replacement is an important part of regular maintenance for your Subaru Impreza. If left unchanged, the timing belt can cause severe engine damage. Knowing when to replace it and the parts you need for a successful replacement is key to keeping your Subaru running smoothly.

When to Replace

It is recommended that you replace your Subaru Impreza timing belt every 60,000 miles or every five years, whichever comes first. If you are unsure when the timing belt was last replaced, it is best to err on the side of caution and replace it sooner rather than later.

Parts Needed for Replacement

In order to successfully replace your Subaru Impreza timing belt, you will need a few parts:
– Serpentine Belt: This part provides tension on the drive belts and helps keep them in place.
– Tensioner and Idler Pulleys: These components help control the tension on the serpentine belt so that it can move freely without becoming loose or slipping off its track.
– Timing Belt Components Kit: This kit contains all of the necessary components that are necessary for a successful timing belt replacement, including seals and gaskets.

Installation Procedure

Replacing your Subaru Impreza timing belt can be done with a few simple steps:
– Step One: Disconnect the negative battery cable from the battery and remove any trim pieces or covers from around the engine as needed.
– Step Two: Loosen and remove any mounting bolts that hold the serpentine belt in place using a wrench. Then take off all three pulleys (tensioner pulley, idler pulley, main pulley).
– Step Three: Take out old timing belt by removing all of its components from around its circumference including seals, gaskets and tensioners as needed. Replace them with new ones that came in your kit if they are worn out or damaged in any way.
– Step Four: Install new timing belt by threading it around all three pulleys and making sure that each component is firmly in place before moving onto the next one. Tighten any mounting bolts holding down pulleys as necessary before moving onto next step.
– Step Five: Once new timing belt has been installed correctly, reconnect negative battery cable back onto battery terminal and reattach trim pieces or covers if needed before starting engine up again to test out newly installed part!

Replacing a Subaru Impreza Timing Belt

Replacing the timing belt in a Subaru Impreza is important to keep the engine running smoothly and efficiently. The timing belt is responsible for keeping the engine’s valves and crankshaft in sync, allowing them to work together to power the car. The timing belt must be replaced periodically in order to prevent problems with the engine, such as misfiring or stalling. Replacing a timing belt is a challenging job that should only be done by an experienced mechanic. Here are some common problems faced during replacement:

Difficulty in Locating the Timing Belt Cover

One of the most common problems faced when replacing a Subaru Impreza timing belt is locating the timing belt cover. This cover is usually located on top of the engine and can be difficult to reach. If you are not familiar with your vehicle, it’s best to have an experienced mechanic handle this task for you.

Adjustment of Tensioner and Idler Pulleys

Another problem faced when replacing a Subaru Impreza timing belt is properly adjusting tensioner and idler pulleys. These pulleys need to be adjusted correctly in order for the timing belt to work effectively. If they are not adjusted properly, it can cause misfiring or stalling of your engine, which can lead to more serious damage if left unchecked.

Benefits of Replacing a Subaru Impreza Timing Belt

Replacing your Subaru Impreza’s timing belt can bring several benefits, including improved performance and efficiency, reduced engine noise and vibration, and improved fuel economy. Additionally, replacing your car’s timing belt can also help prevent future problems with your engine by ensuring that all components are working together properly.

Cost of Replacing a Subaru Impreza Timing Belt

The cost of replacing a Subaru Impreza’s timing belt will vary depending on where you take your vehicle for service and what parts are needed for replacement. Generally speaking, labor costs will range from $400-$600 while parts costs will range from $200-$400 depending on what needs to be replaced. It’s important to get an estimate from a qualified mechanic before making any repairs or replacements so that you know what kind of costs you’re looking at before getting started.

How to Maintain a Subaru Impreza Timing Belt?

In order to maintain your Subaru Impreza’s timing belt, it’s important to have regular inspections performed by an experienced mechanic every 30,000 miles or two years (whichever comes first). During these inspections, they will check for signs of wear or damage as well as adjust any tensioners or idlers as needed in order for them to remain working properly over time. Additionally, make sure that any oil changes are done according to manufacturer guidelines as recommended oil types can affect performance when it comes to maintaining your vehicle’s components such as the timing belt.

FAQ & Answers

Q: What is a Subaru Impreza timing belt?
A: The Subaru Impreza timing belt is a rubber belt that synchronizes the timing of the engine’s camshaft and crankshaft. It ensures that the valves open and close at the right time so that the engine runs smoothly and efficiently.

Q: When should I replace my Subaru Impreza timing belt?
A: It is recommended to replace your Subaru Impreza timing belt every 60,000 to 90,000 miles or every 5 years, whichever comes first. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations as failure to do so may result in serious damage to your engine.

Q: What parts are needed for replacing a Subaru Impreza timing belt?
A: The parts that are needed for replacing a Subaru Impreza timing belt include a serpentine belt, tensioner and idler pulleys, and a timing belt components kit.

Q: What are the benefits of replacing a Subaru Impreza timing belt?
A: Replacing a Subaru Impreza timing belt can improve performance and efficiency of your engine, reduce engine noise and vibration, and extend its life-span.

Q: How can I maintain my Subaru Impreza timing belt?
A: To maintain your Subaru Impreza timing belt it is important to keep it clean by regularly checking it for any signs of wear or cracks. Additionally, you should check its tension periodically as well as inspect its components such as tensioners and pulleys for any signs of wear or damage.

In conclusion, the Subaru Impreza timing belt is an essential part of the vehicle’s engine. It helps keep the engine running efficiently and prevents it from over-revving or stalling out. It is important to replace your timing belt at the recommended intervals to ensure its longevity and reduce the risk of costly repairs or damage to your engine. Regular inspections and maintenance can help keep your Subaru Impreza running smoothly and reliably for years to come.

Author Profile

Carl Frisch
Carl Frisch
With more than 30 years in the bicycle industry, I have a strong background in bicycle retailing, sales, marketing and customer service. I have a passion for cycling and a dedication to excellence. As a manager, I worked diligently to increase my capabilities and responsibilities, managing up to eleven mechanics (at Palo Alto Bicycles) and later as a working partner in my own store.

As the shop owner of Spoke n’ Word Cycles in Socorro, NM, the success of the mission was my responsibility, which I pursued passionately since we opened in 2003 through the spring of 2011. I am adept at managing owned and loan inventory, preparing weekly & annual inventory statements, and managing staff. The role as managing partner also allowed me tremendous freedom. I used this personal freedom to become more deeply involved in my own advancement as a mechanic, to spearhead local trail building, and advocating for cycling both locally and regionally.

As a mechanic, I have several years doing neutral support, experience as a team mechanic, and experience supporting local rides, races, club events. I consistently strive to ensure that bicycles function flawlessly by foreseeing issues and working with the riders, soigners, coaches and other mechanics. Even with decades of experience as a shop mechanic and team mechanic, and continue to pursue greater involvement in this sport as a US Pro Mechanic, and UCI Pro Mechanic.

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