Parts for your 2013 Subaru Forester-Timing belt kit

2013 Subaru Forester timing-belt-kit — belt or chain, and what owners should know

Whether a timing-belt-kit is relevant to a 2013 Subaru Forester depends on the engine fitted. Technical sources including the Subaru Workshop Manual for the SJ Forester (engine sections for FB/FA series), the Gates Australia Application Guide, and Dayco Australia’s timing component catalogue agree on the following: petrol Foresters for 2013 (FB20 2.0, FB25 2.5, and FA20F 2.0 turbo XT) use a timing chain, not a belt. The 2.0D diesel (EE20) uses a timing belt and therefore does require a timing-belt-kit at scheduled intervals.

• Petrol (FB20/FB25/FA20F): timing chain — no timing-belt-kit used (Subaru Workshop Manual, Gates Australia chain notation for FB/FA engines).
• Diesel (EE20 2.0D): timing belt — timing-belt-kit applicable (Subaru service schedules, Gates/Dayco kit listings for EE20 with belt replacement interval).

Why a kit isn’t used on petrol models: Subaru’s FB and FA petrol engines run a chain-driven timing system designed to be service-free under normal conditions. Chains are lubricated by engine oil and don’t have scheduled replacement intervals like belts. Workshop literature for these engines specifies inspection rather than periodic replacement, if there’s chain rattle, oiling issues, or timing faults, diagnosis focuses on chain guides, tensioners, and oil maintenance rather than a “kit” swap.

For the 2.0D EE20 diesel, a timing-belt-kit absolutely matters. The kit’s job is to keep cam and crank timing perfectly synced so the Forester starts crisply, pulls smoothly, and avoids costly valve-to-piston contact. A proper kit typically includes the belt, hydraulic/automatic tensioner, idler pulleys, and often a water pump and seals — the exact contents vary by brand, but Gates and Dayco list full component sets for the EE20. Subaru’s ANZ service schedules and aftermarket catalogues commonly quote around 180,000 km (or about 9 years) for belt replacement under normal use. If the vehicle tows regularly, sees hot climates, or racks up lots of short trips, earlier replacement is sensible.

Best practice at belt time is to do the whole lot in one hit: belt, tensioner, idlers, and water pump, along with fresh coolant and accessory belts. Inspect cam/crank seals for weeping, check pulleys for bearing noise, and torque all fasteners to spec. Because the EE20 is an interference engine, a failed belt or seized idler can mean major top-end damage — a textbook case of “cheap insurance” to replace the full kit. Quality-wise, stick with OEM or reputable brands (Gates, Dayco, or genuine Subaru). Expect several hours of labour, specialist Subaru workshops will have the locking tools and know the timing marks by heart, which helps avoid rework. Routine oil changes and correct coolant mix also support longer component life by keeping temperatures and lubrication on point. For owners unsure which engine they have, the VIN plate/engine code or a quick check with a Subaru dealer parts desk will confirm whether a belt kit applies.

Does my 2013 Forester have a timing belt or a chain?

Most Aussie and Kiwi 2013 petrol Foresters (FB20/FB25 and FA20F XT) run timing chains, so no timing-belt-kit applies. The 2.0D diesel (EE20) uses a timing belt and does need a kit at the scheduled interval. If in doubt, confirm the engine code on the build plate or via your rego/VIN with a Subaru parts department.

When should the timing belt be replaced on the 2013 Forester 2.0D?

Industry guides and Subaru ANZ schedules commonly point to about 180,000 km or 9 years, whichever comes first. Vehicles that tow, see hot conditions, or mainly do short runs may benefit from earlier replacement. Always inspect tensioners and idlers and replace them with the belt.

What’s included in a timing-belt-kit for the 2013 Forester diesel?

Quality kits usually include the timing belt, hydraulic/automatic tensioner, and idler pulleys. Many kits also bundle a water pump and cam/crank seals. Brands like Gates and Dayco list complete options for the EE20 so everything critical is renewed together.