Parts for your 2016 Subaru Impreza-Timing belt kit

2016 Subaru Impreza timing-belt-kit — do you actually need one?

Short answer: a timing-belt-kit isn’t relevant to the 2016 Subaru Impreza. This model runs Subaru’s FB-series engines (most commonly the FB20 2.0L, and in some markets the FB16 1.6L), which use a timing chain, not a rubber timing belt. Technical sources that confirm this include the Subaru Factory Service Manual for the 2016 Impreza (engine section details a chain-driven cam system), Subaru’s Warranty and Maintenance booklet (no scheduled timing belt replacement interval is listed for this model year), and parts catalogues from major suppliers such as Gates and Dayco (which don’t list a timing-belt kit for FB-series Impreza engines).

Subaru moved from the older EJ-series belt-driven setup to the FB-series chain design to improve durability, packaging and long-term timing stability. A timing chain runs inside the engine, is lubricated by engine oil, and is intended to last the life of the engine under normal conditions. Because of that, there’s no “timing-belt-kit” to replace on a schedule for the 2016 Impreza, and any parts listing suggesting otherwise is likely referencing earlier EJ-powered Imprezas (pre-2012) or different Subaru models that still used belts at the time.

While there’s no belt to swap, owners still benefit from good servicing habits that protect the timing chain system. The chain, guides and tensioners rely on clean, correct-spec engine oil and proper service intervals. If the vehicle is maintained well, the chain rarely needs attention. If it isn’t, the system can show issues like noisy cold starts or cam timing faults.

• Stick to the logbook oil and filter intervals, using the correct grade and specification oil.
• Listen for unusual rattles on cold start, persistent noise should be checked by a technician.
• Address oil leaks promptly and avoid extended oil-change intervals.
• If a check engine light appears (e.g., cam/crank correlation codes), have timing components inspected.

If a “2016 Subaru Impreza timing-belt-kit” pops up in a search, it’s almost certainly a miscategorised listing. For this model year, the correct conversation is around chain health and oil quality, not belt replacement.

Popular questions

Does a 2016 Subaru Impreza have a timing belt or a chain?
It has a timing chain. The 2016 model uses Subaru’s FB-series engine family, which is chain-driven. Factory documentation and major parts catalogues confirm there’s no timing belt specified for this engine.

Is a timing-belt-kit needed for the 2016 Impreza?
No. Because the engine uses a chain, there’s no timing-belt-kit or scheduled belt replacement. Listings for a “belt kit” typically apply to earlier EJ engines used in older Imprezas, not the 2016 model.

What timing chain maintenance should be done on a 2016 Impreza?
There’s no set replacement interval for the chain. Focus on regular oil changes with the correct spec oil, and get any cold-start rattles, oil leaks or cam timing fault codes checked. Well-serviced engines rarely need chain work.