Parts for your 2012 Subaru Exiga-Timing belt kit

Timing Belt Kit for the 2012 Subaru Exiga: What You Need to Know

The 2012 Subaru Exiga doesn't actually use a timing belt, so a timing belt kit is not relevant or required for this vehicle. Instead, this model is equipped with a timing chain to handle the engine's timing needs. This distinction is key because the maintenance and replacement intervals for timing chains and timing belts can be quite different.

Timing chains are typically more durable and designed to last the life of the engine, or at least for many hundreds of thousands of kilometres under normal driving conditions. They are made from metal links, which generally makes them more robust than rubber timing belts that can wear over time and need regular replacement. The 2012 Subaru Exiga's engine uses a timing chain system to drive the camshafts, meaning owners don't need to worry about timing belt maintenance or timing belt kit replacements.

Why is the timing belt kit not used on the 2012 Subaru Exiga? It really comes down to the engine design and Subaru's engineering choices. Subaru has long favoured boxer engines, which are flat-four or flat-six cylinder configurations. Many of these engines use timing chains rather than belts due to their durability and reliability advantages. Chains are less likely to snap or degrade with age compared to belts. So in the case of the Exiga, the manufacturer has gone with a timing chain to reduce the number of routine maintenance tasks and offer a longer-lasting engine timing solution.

Timing belt kits typically include the timing belt itself, tensioners, idler pulleys, and sometimes a water pump or seals depending on the kit and engine. These parts work together to keep the timing belt tight and aligned to maintain precise timing of the engine's camshafts and crankshaft. When properly maintained or replaced on schedule, timing belt kits help prevent catastrophic engine damage caused by belt failure, which can lead to valves colliding with pistons in interference engines.

Because the 2012 Subaru Exiga uses a timing chain, it does not require this kit or the associated maintenance intervals that come with a timing belt. Timing chains do require some maintenance considerations though. They rely on proper oil pressure and regular oil changes to stay lubricated and extend their lifespan. Over time, however, chains can stretch or the tensioners and guides can wear out, which means the timing system can eventually require service. It just happens on a much longer timeframe compared to belts, sometimes beyond 200,000 kilometres.

For Subaru Exiga owners, the key maintenance focus is on regular oil changes with the recommended grade of oil and sticking to Subaru's servicing schedules. Clean oil helps ensure the timing chain runs smoothly and quietly without developing slack or noise issues. If any rattling or unusual noises come from the timing cover area, it may be worth getting the timing chain system inspected by a qualified mechanic to check for wear on the chain, tensioners or guides.

Regular servicing also means a mechanic can spot any early signs of timing chain wear or tensioner failure, even though outright failure is rare within standard service intervals. The absence of a timing belt kit means there is no standard replacement interval that owners must be motivated by, but good maintenance habits remain essential for a healthy engine.

Overall, the 2012 Subaru Exiga's choice to use a timing chain instead of a timing belt simplifies maintenance and reduces the risk of sudden timing failure. While there is no timing belt kit involved, owners should still be mindful of the timing chain system's condition as part of general engine health. This means regular servicing, oil changes, and prompt attention to unusual sounds are the best way to ensure the timing system keeps performing flawlessly for many years and kilometres ahead.