Parts for your 2009 Subaru Impreza-Drive belt pulley

2009 Subaru Impreza Drive-Belt Pulley

Technical sources including the Subaru Factory Service Manual for the 2009 Impreza (GE/GH/GR), the Subaru FAST parts catalogue, and Dayco/Gates application guides confirm that this model absolutely uses accessory drive-belt pulleys. They’re fitted across the EJ-series engines used in 2009 Imprezas sold in Australia and New Zealand, covering alternator, power steering, A/C compressor and related idler/tensioner pulleys.

On this Impreza, the drive-belt pulleys let the crankshaft share its spin with accessories like the alternator (charging), power steering pump (where fitted) and A/C compressor. The crankshaft pulley (harmonic balancer) damps vibration as well. Note: the water pump on EJ engines is driven by the timing belt, not the accessory belt, so it’s not part of the accessory pulley train.

Servicing-wise, a quick look under the bonnet at each service is smart. Listen for chirps or squeals on cold start, check for belt cracking, glazing or frayed edges, and spin the idler/tensioner pulleys by hand for roughness. Any wobble at the crank pulley or perished rubber in the damper needs attention straight away.

Replacement intervals vary with use, but many workshops in AU/NZ inspect at every service and plan belt replacement roughly every 60,000–100,000 kilometres, sooner if there’s noise or visible wear. If a belt is worn, it’s good practice to check all pulleys, the alternator bearings and the tensioner at the same time—replacing a noisy pulley early can save a roadside drama later.

There are a couple of setup nuances on 2009 Impreza models:

• Alternator/power steering belt: commonly adjusted via the alternator bracket. Correct tension is vital—too tight wears bearings, too loose slips and squeals.
• A/C belt: many variants use a stretch-fit belt with no separate tensioner. Use the proper installer tool and do not lever it on with a screwdriver, as that can damage the belt and A/C pulley.

When fitting new pulleys, choose quality OEM or reputable aftermarket units with sealed bearings. Clean the pulley grooves, check alignment, torque mounting bolts correctly, and run the engine while observing for straight tracking and quiet operation. A fresh belt and smooth, true-running pulleys make the Impreza feel quieter, charge better and keep its cool—too easy.

Popular questions about 2009 Subaru Impreza drive-belt pulleys

Which pulleys does a 2009 Impreza typically have?
Most models run a crankshaft pulley (harmonic balancer), alternator pulley, power steering pump pulley (where fitted), A/C compressor pulley, plus one or more idler/tensioner pulleys. The exact layout can vary between non-turbo and turbo variants.

How often should belts and pulleys be replaced?
Inspect at every service. Many technicians replace the accessory belt around 60,000–100,000 km based on condition. Pulleys last longer but should be replaced if they feel rough, wobble, or make noise. If the A/C uses a stretch-fit belt, renew it whenever removed.

What are the signs of a bad pulley?
Common clues include belt squeal, chirping, a grinding or rumbling bearing noise, visible pulley wobble, belt tracking off-centre, or charging/steering assistance issues. Any burning smell or rubber dust around the front of the engine also points to slippage or misalignment.