Hi Scotty,
I own a 2013 Subaru Legacy 2.5 Premium automatic. I baby the car, but when I asked my local mechanic about timing chain replacement they said it doesn't need to be changed ever (unless engine is disassembled).
I have 91,000 miles with no issues or noises, but I always thought even a timing chain needs replacement around 100,000 up to 120,000? Is Subaru the exception to the rule?
Thanks,
Scott Frederick
Penn Valley, CA.
Clarification: How often do you change your engine oil?
Every 5,000 miles with full synthetic (factory filter I purchase from a Subie local shop). I use Riebes oil or Castrol GTX.
There are chains and belts.
Timing chains generally never need to be replaced, as they last the life of the engine.
Timing belts need to be changed per the manufacturer's maintenance schedule (e.g., every 100,000 miles).
Thanks Nessmuk. I appreciate it.
On the topic of CVT, you should be changing the transmission fluid every 30,000 miles. They are the weak link as it is, so changing fluid more often with clean one can help prolong its life more. Also, only use the OEM fluid. And be easy with the Subaru: don’t tow with it or drive like a maniac, stick to highway miles more vs city, stop-and-go miles.
That sounds good. Is it possible to change it ones self? The shops where I live want $400 or more to change that fluid. Would be $$$ every 30,000 miles.
You can change it urself but its a real PITA
At least it was on my 2016 xtrek
Depending on the design of the engine and quality of materials, timing chains run the gamut from needing replacement every 25,000 miles to, with proper maintenance, lasting the life of the engine.
Most modern engines are the latter. Unless you neglect changing your oil you shouldn't have to worry about your timing chain. Your main concern on a 2013 Subaru will be the CVT since that is the weakest part of the car.
Sounds good then, I always change my oil religiously.
On the cvt, I had it changed at 80,000. Funny how the dealership said it's lifetime fluid. 😆. I knew that was BS. I don't drive hard, so hopefully it lasts beyond 120,000. It's been my biggest concern (besides the timing chain replacement).
You should be good to go. A little late in changing the CVT fluid, from here on I'd do it at no more than 30K-40K mile intervals. If you do that and don't abuse it they can last. (The Subaru CVTs are not nearly as bad as those awful Nissan/Jatco jobs. If Subaru would just specify a fluid change interval instead of the "lifetime" BS they'd have a lot fewer problems.)
It's pricey to change the cvt fluid where I live. Dealer wants $500 and local shop around $430. The 1st time at the dealer they took over four hours, and did not screw the plug in tight enough... I went to have my rear brakes done at my local shop and they saw fluid leakage. They topped off the cvt fluid and tightened it up again - thank goodness I had not lost much fluid...
The procedure for CVT fluid change on Subarus seems needlessly complex. There are youtube videos showing how to do it yourself which would save some money if so inclined.
Awesome. Thanks Chuck 👍🏻
It is recommended by most manufacturers to replace the timing chain
I can't speak for Subaru, but this is not the case for my manufacturer, and not on any vehicle I've ever owned. I have never seen a pushrod engine that had a replacement interval for the timing chain, and I've never witnessed one start to rattle, even after 200k. They are lubricated by the engine oil, and last just as long as the engine.
I don't think Doc owns any vehicles from the last 30 years so his info may be out of date.
It is recommended by most manufacturers to replace the timing chain, tensioner and guides at around 120,000 or when you hear a rattling sound on cold start up.
Hmmm.... that is kinda what I was thinking too. So i'm a scooch confused as others are saying no need to change it.
I know trucks need it done around 100,000 miles due to hauling and towing. It's an interference engine I think with my Legacy.... so I hate to chance it.
Fine, then just wait until it breaks, or skips a tooth and ruins your engine.
I think you misinterpreted my previous response... I was agreeing with you that I had always believed it was around the mileage you specified.... but since I owned a pickup truck before, I thought maybe it could be different with certain cars.
However, I am getting more responses saying it can go well beyond 120,000 miles with proper care. So I would tend to favor them.