Parts for your 2013 Subaru Impreza-Drive belt

2013 Subaru Impreza Drive Belt — What It Does and When to Replace It

Yes, the 2013 Subaru Impreza uses a drive belt (often called an accessory or serpentine belt). Technical sources including the Subaru Impreza (GP/GJ) Service Manual for the FB20 engine and major belt catalogues from Gates and Dayco confirm an auxiliary belt system is fitted. The FB20 engine runs a timing chain for the cams (so there’s no timing belt to replace), but it still relies on an external belt or belts to spin the alternator and air-conditioning compressor. Electric power steering means there’s no power-steering pump on the belt. Depending on build, the vehicle may have a single multi-rib belt with an automatic tensioner, or a main alternator belt plus a separate stretch-fit A/C belt.

The drive belt’s job is simple but crucial: keep the battery charging via the alternator and keep the cabin cool by driving the A/C compressor. If the belt slips or fails, drivers may see a battery warning light, hear squeals on cold start, or notice weak air-con performance. Left too long, a failed belt can leave the car stranded with a flat battery.

As part of regular servicing in Australia and New Zealand conditions, it’s smart to inspect the belt at least every 10,000–15,000 km or annually—more often if the car does short trips, tows, or lives in hot, dusty areas. Look for glazing, cracking across the ribs, frayed edges, missing chunks, or any belt “chirp”. Check the automatic tensioner and idlers for smooth, quiet operation, if they’re noisy or wobbly, replace them with the belt. Contamination from oil or coolant is grounds for immediate replacement.

• Typical replacement timing: around 90,000–120,000 km or 6–8 years, condition-dependent.
• Use quality OEM-equivalent belts (Gates/Dayco list correct Impreza FB20 applications).
• On variants with a stretch-fit A/C belt: it’s single-use and needs the proper installation tool—don’t lever it on with a screwdriver.

When fitting, follow the routing diagram under the bonnet or in the Subaru service manual, set all torque specs correctly, and ensure the belt sits fully in each pulley groove. A quick re-check after a few hundred kilometres helps catch early settling. With a fresh, correctly tensioned belt, the 2013 Impreza charges strongly and the A/C stays icy—even on a scorcher.

FAQs

Does the 2013 Subaru Impreza have a timing belt or a chain?
It uses a timing chain, not a timing belt. However, it still has an external drive/accessory belt (and on some variants a separate stretch-fit A/C belt) to run the alternator and air-conditioning compressor.

How often should the drive belt be replaced on a 2013 Impreza?
Inspect at every service and plan replacement around 90,000–120,000 km or 6–8 years, sooner if there’s any glazing, cracking, fraying, noise, or contamination. Always assess condition and replace tensioner/idlers if worn.

Can the car be driven with a squealing belt?
Not recommended. A squeal usually signals slip, wear, contamination, or a weak tensioner. Continued driving can lead to charging issues or sudden belt failure. It’s best to inspect and fix before it strands the driver.