Parts for your 2006 Subaru Forester-Timing belt kit

2006 Subaru Forester timing belt kit — what it does and when to replace it

For the 2006 Subaru Forester, a timing belt kit is absolutely relevant. Both the 2.5-litre EJ253 (non-turbo, SOHC) and EJ255 (turbo, DOHC) engines run a toothed timing belt rather than a chain. This is documented in the Subaru Factory Service Manual for MY2006 Forester and reflected across major parts catalogues such as Gates and Dayco, all of which list complete timing-belt-kits for these engines. Subaru’s maintenance schedules for the EJ series also specify routine belt replacement.

The timing belt kit keeps the camshafts and crankshaft turning in perfect sync, so valves and pistons don’t clash. On these EJ25 engines, the valve timing arrangement is an interference design—if the belt fails or jumps teeth, it can bend valves and lead to expensive repairs. That’s why a proper kit and timely replacement is such a big deal.

• What’s typically in a quality kit: timing belt, hydraulic/automatic tensioner, idler pulleys, and often a water pump, thermostat, and seals.
• Recommended intervals: Subaru service information lists 105,000 miles/105 months for many markets, in Australia and New Zealand, workshops and parts suppliers commonly advise 100,000 km or 5 years due to local conditions. Always check the vehicle’s VIN-based schedule.

Best practice during a belt service on a 2006 Forester is to replace the lot in one go—belt, tensioner, idlers, and water pump—because these parts wear together. Fresh coolant, accessory belts, and cam/crank seals are smart adds while access is open. A rhythmic chirp or whine, visible belt cracking or glazing, or coolant seep at the pump are all signs it’s time to act sooner rather than later.

Quality matters. Choose OEM or reputable brands (as cross-referenced in Gates/Dayco catalogues and Subaru service guidance) and make sure alignment marks are spot-on. Turning the engine by hand two full rotations before start-up is standard workshop practice to verify timing. Most shops quote around half a day of labour with the proper tools (crank pulley holder, torque wrench, and service manual specs).

For a 2006 Subaru Forester, fitting a complete timing-belt-kit on schedule is cheap insurance for long engine life and dependable touring across Aussie and Kiwi roads.

• Popular questions about 2006 Subaru Forester timing-belt-kits

Does a 2006 Subaru Forester have a timing belt or a chain?
It uses a timing belt. This applies to both the EJ253 non-turbo and EJ255 turbo engines, as shown in the Subaru Factory Service Manual and major parts catalogues that list complete timing-belt-kits for MY2006 Forester.

How often should the timing belt kit be replaced in Australia or New Zealand?
Many local workshops recommend every 100,000 km or 5 years. Subaru’s global guidance for EJ engines often cites 105,000 miles/105 months. Given local conditions and age, 100,000 km/5 years is a sensible target—always check the vehicle’s service book.

Should the water pump be replaced with the belt?
Yes, it’s widely recommended. The pump is driven by the timing belt on these engines, doing it with the belt, tensioner, and idlers avoids duplicate labour and helps ensure reliable cooling and timing system operation.