Parts for your 2013 Subaru Forester-Harmonic balancers

2013 Subaru Forester harmonic balancer (crankshaft damper)

Technical sources confirm the 2013 Subaru Forester is fitted with a harmonic balancer. The Subaru Factory Service Manual for 2013 Forester engines (FB25 and EJ255) details a crankshaft pulley that incorporates a torsional damper, and Subaru’s OEM parts catalog lists the assembly as a crank pulley/damper. Dayco and Gates technical materials also describe these pulleys as harmonic balancers used on Subaru boxer engines. So it’s a relevant service item on this model.

On a 2013 Forester, the harmonic balancer’s job is to soak up the crankshaft’s torsional vibrations. Every firing event twists the crank a touch, the damper’s rubber isolator counters that twist to protect the crank, timing components, and accessory drive. Done right, it keeps NVH in check, helps alternator output stay stable, and reduces belt and bearing wear. Whether it’s the naturally aspirated FB25 or the turbo EJ255, both engines rely on a healthy damper to keep things smooth under the bonnet.

There’s no fixed replacement interval in Subaru schedules, but inspection at regular services is smart. Look for perished or cracked rubber, pulley wobble, belt tracking that’s off-centre, or a chirp/rumble at idle and through 1,500–2,500 rpm. A deteriorated damper can cause belt slip, charging issues, and harshness that feels like a misfire. If any of that shows up, replacement is the go.

• Use an OEM-quality damper matched to the exact engine code (FB25 vs EJ255).
• Hold the pulley with the proper tool, don’t jam the ring gear.
• Tighten the crank bolt to factory torque and follow the manual’s oil/locker instructions, replace the bolt if the manual specifies.
• Fit a new drive belt and inspect idlers/tensioner while you’re there.
• Check keyway and crank nose for damage before refit.

Owners who notice fresh vibrations, a wobbling crank pulley, rubber “shedding” from the balancer, or repeated belt squeal should book the car sooner rather than later. A failed balancer can toss the belt, taking out alternator assist and, on some variants, power steering. Getting ahead of it keeps the Forester happy on long Kiwi or Aussie kilometres.

Technical sources referenced: Subaru Factory Service Manual (2013 Forester, Engine sections: Crankshaft/Crank Pulley), Subaru OEM Parts Catalog (crankshaft pulley with damper), Dayco and Gates technical guidance on harmonic balancer construction, failure modes, and inspection.

Popular questions about 2013 Subaru Forester harmonic balancers

Does the 2013 Subaru Forester have a harmonic balancer?
Yes. Both the 2.5-litre FB25 and the turbo EJ255 used in 2013 Forester models use a crankshaft pulley with an integrated torsional damper (harmonic balancer).

When should the harmonic balancer be replaced?
There’s no set kilometre interval. Replace on condition—if the rubber is cracked, the pulley wobbles, there’s belt misalignment, or vibration/noise shows up at idle and light revs. Many see attention somewhere between 150,000–250,000 km, but inspection at every service is the safe play.

Is it OK to keep driving with a failing harmonic balancer?
Best not. A slipping or separating damper can throw the belt and knock out charging and accessory drive. Continued use can stress the crankshaft and bearings. If symptoms appear, park it and organise a proper fix.