Parts for your 2017 Subaru Forester-Timing belt kit

Timing Belt Kit for the 2017 Subaru Forester: Is It Needed?

When it comes to the 2017 Subaru Forester, many car owners and enthusiasts often wonder about the timing belt kit and whether it's a necessary part of maintenance for this vehicle. After referencing technical sources and Subaru's official maintenance guidelines, it's clear that the 2017 Forester does not use a timing belt. Instead, this generation of Forester is equipped with a timing chain. This is an important distinction because it greatly affects servicing routines and replacement parts.

The 2017 Subaru Forester is powered by Subaru's Boxer engine, specifically the FB series engines, which utilise a timing chain rather than a timing belt. Timing chains are made of metal and are designed to last for a much longer period compared to timing belts, which are constructed from reinforced rubber and require regular replacement. The timing chain serves the same fundamental purpose as a timing belt - it keeps the camshaft and crankshaft perfectly synchronised to control the engine's valve timing. But thanks to its robust materials and construction, it generally does not need the same routine replacement schedule, making timing belt kits irrelevant for this vehicle.

Because the 2017 Forester uses a timing chain, there is no need for a timing belt kit. Timing belt kits typically include a timing belt, tensioners, idler pulleys, a water pump, and seals - parts that wear out and require replacement over time. In contrast, timing chains are lubricated by engine oil and are built to endure tens or even hundreds of thousands of kilometres without needing replacement. However, this does not mean that the timing chain needs no attention at all. Regular oil changes and engine maintenance are key to keeping the timing chain running smoothly.

For Subaru Forester owners, understanding that the timing chain replaces the timing belt system is beneficial because it alters how the maintenance schedule is approached. Unlike cars that rely on a timing belt kit and require expensive and time-intensive servicing every 100,000 to 160,000 kilometres (depending on the model), the timing chain-equipped 2017 Forester enjoys lower long-term maintenance costs related to cam timing components. This is a real plus for everyday driving in Australian conditions, whether on city roads or longer trips.

Since a timing belt kit is not applicable to the 2017 Subaru Forester, car owners can focus on other important routine services to keep their Forester in great shape. For instance, sticking to Subaru's recommended oil and filter change intervals is essential because the timing chain's lubrication depends on clean engine oil. Neglecting oil changes can lead to premature wear of the timing chain or its tensioner mechanism, which could cause noise or even engine timing issues over time.

In the unlikely event that the timing chain or its associated components need replacing, this is generally a job reserved for higher mileage vehicles or cases where chain tension or guide wear is detected. Such replacement is a specialised task and much less frequent than timing belt replacement cycles. It's also worth noting that the 2017 Forester benefits from a robust engine design that minimises stretching or skipping of the timing chain, which can be a risk with older or poorly maintained timing belts.

One of the advantages of a timing chain, as fitted to the 2017 Subaru Forester, is peace of mind. Drivers don't need to worry about remembering a timing belt change at a specific mileage since the timing chain is designed to last the life of the engine. This also adds value and convenience, especially for those who use their Forester as a family vehicle or for outdoor adventures where reliability is king.

In cases where the timing chain might display signs of wear, such as unusual rattling noises from the engine or difficulty starting the engine, it's important to get the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic. They can check the timing chain tensioner and guides and address any issues early before they develop into more costly repairs. But with regular servicing and oil changes, this is often avoidable.

To sum up, if someone is searching for a timing belt kit for their 2017 Subaru Forester, they can stop looking. The factory engine design uses a timing chain, which offers durability and reduced maintenance worries compared to traditional timing belts. This design choice supports Subaru's reputation for building tough, reliable vehicles that are relatively easy to maintain. So for Forester owners, focusing on regular servicing, especially oil changes, is the best way to keep everything ticking along nicely without the need for a timing belt kit replacement.