Parts for your 2013 Subaru Exiga-Timing belt kit

Timing Belt Kit for the 2013 Subaru Exiga: What You Need to Know

The 2013 Subaru Exiga is a popular choice among families who need a reliable and spacious vehicle. When it comes to maintenance, one important aspect for many engines is the timing belt kit. However, the 2013 Subaru Exiga, like many Subaru models of that year, actually runs with a timing chain rather than a timing belt. This means that a traditional timing belt kit is not relevant or used on this vehicle.

Why is that the case? Subaru has long favoured timing chains in their boxer engines, including the ones fitted to the Exiga. Timing chains are generally more durable and designed to last the life of the engine, unlike timing belts which require regular replacement as part of routine maintenance. A timing belt kit usually includes the belt itself, tensioners, pulleys, and sometimes water pumps, all of which are components that wear out over time and need replacing at specified intervals. Since the 2013 Exiga uses a timing chain, it does not have these service parts that are typical with timing belt maintenance.

So, if you own a 2013 Subaru Exiga and have been browsing parts or maintenance schedules, you won't find a timing belt kit listed as a required service item. Instead, Subaru recommends routine inspections of your timing chain and associated components during regular servicing. Timing chains are generally quieter and more robust, but they can stretch or experience wear on the tensioners or guides over many kilometers. This means while the chain itself is designed to last the life of the engine, periodic checks are still important to avoid any unexpected issues.

For vehicles with timing belts, the timing belt kit is critical. It keeps the engine's camshaft and crankshaft synchronised, ensuring that the valves open and close at the right times during the combustion cycle. If a timing belt fails, it can cause serious engine damage because pistons and valves could collide. That damage can be expensive to fix, so preventative replacement is key in vehicles that use belts. This is why timing belt kits are sold as a package with all replacement parts and are usually recommended every 100,000 to 160,000 kilometres, depending on the manufacturer's guidelines.

Even though the Subaru Exiga skips the timing belt replacement, owners still need to keep up with regular oil changes and watch for any noises or performance issues. Well-maintained engine oil helps lubricate the timing chain and other internal components, which in turn helps prolong their service life. Some Subaru mechanics recommend inspecting or replacing the timing chain tensioner or guides after high mileage or if there's any sign of chain noise.

So if you see references to timing belt kits for the 2013 Subaru Exiga online or in auto part stores, be aware that these are not applicable. Instead, focus your maintenance efforts on fluid changes, scheduled inspections, and following Subaru's recommended service intervals. This will help keep your Exiga's engine running smoothly and quietly for many years to come.

For those who own one of these vehicles and are performing a service or tune-up, it is always a smart idea to ask your mechanic about the condition of the timing chain and related components. Some workshops might still offer a timing chain inspection service, especially as the car ages or racks up more kilometres. Catching any potential wear early can help avoid pricey repairs later on and keep your trusted Subaru performing its best.

In short, the 2013 Subaru Exiga's use of a timing chain instead of a timing belt means that a timing belt kit is simply not a relevant maintenance item for this vehicle. Owners can breathe a little easier knowing they are dealing with a more durable component, but like all mechanical parts, periodic checks and good maintenance habits remain crucial for longevity and reliability.