Parts for your 2009 Subaru Exiga-Drive belt tensioner

2009 Subaru Exiga drive-belt tensioner — is it actually there?

Short answer: no. For the 2009 Subaru Exiga (YA-series, EJ20 engines), there isn’t a separate, spring-loaded drive-belt tensioner assembly fitted from factory. Subaru’s own technical literature shows the accessory belts are tensioned manually using adjuster bolts and a fixed idler, not an automatic tensioner. This is documented in the Subaru Exiga (YA) Service Manual, Mechanical – V-belt (H4DO, EJ20), reflected in the Subaru FAST electronic parts catalogue (YA5 listings for alternator/air-con drive with no dedicated automatic tensioner), and is consistent with major aftermarket catalogues in Australia and New Zealand that list belts and idlers for this model but no automatic drive-belt tensioner assembly.

Why no tensioner? The EJ-series accessory layout in this era uses two separate V-ribbed belts — one for alternator/power steering and another for the air-con — with jackscrew-style adjusters and a fixed idler. That setup sets belt load mechanically and keeps the parts count down. Subaru moved to a single serpentine belt with an automatic tensioner later on with FB-series engines, but the 2009 Exiga stuck with the proven EJ arrangement.

What this means for servicing is simple: there’s nothing to “replace” as a tensioner unit on a 2009 Exiga, but the belts still need periodic checks and proper adjustment. A good workshop will check belt condition and tension at regular services (around every 10,000–15,000 kilometres). If there’s glazing, cracking, frayed edges, or squeal on start-up, it’s time to adjust or replace. When fitting new belts, the adjuster bolts are used to set tension to spec, then the lock bolts are tightened. It’s smart to re-check tension after a few hundred kilometres as new belts bed in.

• Common signs of incorrect belt tension: squeal on cold start, dim battery light at idle, heavy steering, or air-con slip.
• Good practice while you’re there: spin the idler pulley by hand for roughness, check the alternator/power-steering bracket and pivot bolts, and replace any noisy pulley bearings.

Turbo GT trims of the Exiga use the same manual-adjuster philosophy for the accessory drive, so the above still applies. If in doubt, a technician can confirm the layout under the bonnet — they’ll see adjuster screws rather than a spring-loaded tensioner arm.

Popular questions about the 2009 Subaru Exiga drive-belt tensioner

Does a 2009 Subaru Exiga have a drive-belt tensioner?
No separate automatic tensioner. The EJ20 in the 2009 Exiga uses manual adjusters and a fixed idler to set belt tension. This is shown in Subaru’s YA-series service manual and parts catalogue for the Exiga.

How do you tension the belts on a 2009 Exiga?
Loosen the belt’s lock bolts, turn the adjuster screw to achieve the specified tension, then re-tighten the lock bolts. A workshop will measure deflection/force to spec, at home, go for firm tension without chirp and re-check after a short run-in.

When should the belts or idler be replaced?
Inspect at each service. Replace the belts if there’s cracking, glazing, or noise, typically somewhere between 60,000 and 100,000 kilometres depending on use and climate. Replace any idler pulley that feels rough, wobbly, or noisy.