Timing belt of 2008 Subaru Outback with 56,000 miles on it
2 Answers
Hornet_2497 answered 5 years ago
The approximate service interval for those fabric timing belts is 10 years or 100,000 to have it inspected without disassembly. My mechanic won't replace one until 100,000 no matter the age. The dealer loves doing them for $1500 and they sure know how to make people worry. If you need a second opinion, take it to an independent shop and if it looks worn, you might be able to get it done for $500 like my mechanic does. There is an inspection port on many cars, located at the bottom of the crankshaft cover. Since 1998 the belts are made of rubber reinforced with Kevlar...bullet proof vest material. My Dad had a 2001 VW belt done at 54,000 miles are it looked like new after we wiped the dirt off of it!
Considering the cost should the belt break it would not be a bad idea to change it. Have the belt inspected if you want to put it off. Dealer prices are high. Find a Subaru specialist and you should save money.