Parts for your 2006 Subaru Forester-Drive belt

2006 Subaru Forester drive-belt — purpose, care, and replacement

Per Subaru’s 2006MY Forester Factory Service Manual and mainstream belt catalogues from Gates and Dayco, the 2006 Subaru Forester (EJ25) is fitted with accessory drive-belts (often called serpentine or V‑ribbed belts). These belts run the alternator, power steering pump, and air‑conditioning compressor. That means a drive-belt is absolutely relevant on this model. Note: the engine also has a separate timing belt for the cams, but that’s a different belt and job altogether.

The drive-belt’s purpose is simple: transfer crankshaft power to the vital accessories so the battery charges, steering stays light, and the cabin stays cool. When a belt is tired or loose, it can squeal, slip, or fail outright — leaving a flat battery, heavy steering, or no A/C. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions with plenty of heat, dust, and stop‑start driving, staying on top of belt condition is a smart move.

Good servicing practice is to inspect the belts at every service (about 10,000–15,000 km) and replace them roughly every 60,000–100,000 km or 4–6 years, whichever comes first. Replace sooner if there are leaks (oil/coolant) on the belt, audible chirps after start‑up, or visible wear. Subaru’s maintenance schedules back this approach, and both OE and reputable aftermarket guides recommend regular checks and timely renewal.

• Common wear signs: cracking, fraying, glazing/shiny ribs, missing chunks, or black rubber dust around pulleys.
• Operational clues: alternator/battery light, heavy steering feel, intermittent A/C cooling, or belt squeal.

Most 2006 Foresters use two V‑ribbed belts: one for alternator/power steering and another for the A/C compressor. Tension is set via the alternator pivot/adjuster for the main belt and an idler adjuster for the A/C belt. Under the bonnet there’s often a routing diagram, otherwise the Subaru service manual has the layout. After fitting, the belt should twist about a quarter‑turn by hand on the longest run, recheck tension after 500–1,000 km as fresh belts can bed in.

When replacing, it’s worth spinning every pulley by hand to feel for rough bearings, checking the idler/tensioner condition, and cleaning pulley grooves. Sticking with OE or quality brands (as listed in Gates/Dayco catalogues) helps avoid noise and premature wear. If the belt’s come off due to a leak, fix the leak before fitting a new belt — otherwise the new one won’t last.

Technical references consulted: Subaru Forester 2006MY Service Manual (Engine/ME section, Drive Belt), Subaru scheduled maintenance guides, and Gates/Dayco application catalogues for 2006 Forester EJ25 accessory belts.

Popular questions

What drive-belts does a 2006 Subaru Forester have?
Most EJ25 Foresters of this year have two accessory belts — one drives the alternator and power steering pump, the other drives the A/C compressor. Belt routing and exact lengths can vary slightly by market and equipment, so checking the under‑bonnet diagram or the service manual is best.

How often should the drive-belts be replaced?
With regular inspections each service, many owners replace belts around 60,000–100,000 km or at 4–6 years. Harsh climates, lots of city driving, or any belt noise or cracking are good reasons to bring that forward. Always replace if contaminated by oil or coolant.

Can a worn drive-belt cause battery or steering issues?
Yes. A slipping alternator belt can undercharge the battery and trigger warning lights. If the belt that also drives the power steering slips, steering can feel heavy at low speeds. Sorting belt condition and tension often resolves those symptoms.