Parts for your 2008 Subaru Forester-Drive belt

2008 Subaru Forester drive-belt: what it does and how to look after it

Yes, a drive-belt is absolutely used on the 2008 Subaru Forester. Technical references including the Subaru Forester MY2008 Owner’s Manual, Subaru Factory Service Manual for the EJ25 engine, and aftermarket catalogues from Gates and Dayco all list accessory/auxiliary drive-belts for this model. That settles it: the 2008 Forester runs external belts to drive key components.

On this Forester, the drive-belt (often called an auxiliary or serpentine belt) transfers engine rotation to the alternator and power steering pump, and a separate belt typically runs the air-conditioning compressor. Many Aussie and Kiwi–delivered 2008 EJ25 cars use two belts: an alternator/power-steering belt with an adjuster, and a stretch-fit A/C belt with no traditional tensioner. This setup keeps charging healthy, steering light, and the cabin cool.

As part of routine servicing, the belts should be inspected at each service interval and replaced when wear shows or at time/kilometre limits. A practical rule for local conditions is to inspect every 10,000–12,500 km or 6 months, and plan replacement around 90,000–120,000 km or 5–6 years, whichever comes first. Heat, dust, and short-trip use can shorten life. The stretch-fit A/C belt isn’t re-tensioned, it’s replaced using a suitable tool and correct procedure.

• Common wear signs: cracking between ribs, fraying, glazing/shiny ribs, chirps/squeals on start-up, belt “dust,” or intermittent battery light.
• Good practice: replace belts in matched sets if both are aged, inspect idler/tensioner bearings, check pulley alignment, and confirm correct rib count and length.

When replacing, use quality belts sized for the EJ25 with/without A/C as applicable. Follow the under-bonnet routing decal or workshop manual, set the alternator/power-steering belt tension to spec, and never lever against fragile components. After installation, run the engine briefly, recheck tracking and (for adjustable belts) recheck tension after a short drive. Belt dressings and sprays are a no-go, they mask problems rather than fix them.

If a drive-belt fails on a 2008 Forester, expect a flat battery, heavy steering, and no A/C—none of which is fun on a long Kiwi or Aussie run. Staying ahead with simple inspections and timely replacement keeps the Forester charging, steering, and cooling just the way it should.

FAQs

Does a 2008 Subaru Forester have one serpentine belt or two belts?
Most 2008 Foresters with the EJ25 use two auxiliary belts: one for the alternator/power steering with an adjustable tensioner, and a separate stretch-fit belt for the A/C compressor. Build details can vary slightly, so checking the under-bonnet label or parts catalogue is wise.

How often should the drive-belts be replaced on a 2008 Forester?
Inspect at every service (about 10,000–12,500 km or 6 months). Many owners replace around 90,000–120,000 km or 5–6 years, earlier if there’s cracking, glazing, noise, or poor charging. Harsh climates and short trips can bring that forward.

What are the symptoms of a failing drive-belt?
Look and listen for rib cracks, fraying edges, shiny/glazed ribs, chirping or squealing on cold start, black belt dust near pulleys, or a flickering battery light. Heavy steering and weak charging are late-stage clues—don’t wait for those.