Parts for your 2017 Subaru Legacy-Timing belt kit

Timing Belt Kit and the 2017 Subaru Legacy: What You Need to Know

When it comes to the 2017 Subaru Legacy, many car owners wonder whether this model requires a timing belt kit or if it relies on a different mechanism altogether. After referencing various technical sources and official Subaru information, it's clear the 2017 Subaru Legacy does not use a timing belt. Instead, Subaru equips this vehicle with a timing chain, which is quite different in both design and maintenance from a timing belt.

The absence of a timing belt in the 2017 Subaru Legacy comes down to the engine design. Subaru's flat-four boxer engines, which power the Legacy, typically use timing chains rather than belts to synchronise the camshafts with the crankshaft. This is important because timing chains are designed to be more durable, longer-lasting, and generally require less frequent maintenance than timing belts. So for the 2017 Subaru Legacy, a timing belt kit is not a relevant part.

Timing belts and timing chains essentially perform the same fundamental task: they coordinate the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft(s) so the engine's valves open and close at the right times during each cylinder's intake and exhaust strokes. However, the materials and maintenance needs vary. Timing belts are made of rubber with fibres woven in for strength, which means they degrade over time and eventually need replacing to avoid catastrophic engine failure.

On the other hand, timing chains are made of metal and look similar to a bicycle chain. They are housed inside the engine and are constantly lubricated with engine oil. This design generally allows the chain to last for the lifetime of the vehicle under normal conditions, meaning the timing chain doesn't require routine replacement like a timing belt does.

For owners of 2017 Subaru Legacy models, this means no timing belt kit replacements are scheduled or needed. Instead, maintenance for the timing chain typically focuses on ensuring the chain tensioner and guides are functioning correctly, and that the engine oil is clean and at appropriate levels. Good lubrication is critical because the timing chain's longevity heavily depends on it. Poor oil maintenance can lead to premature chain wear or even chain failure, which is a costly repair.

While timing chains are often marketed as being maintenance-free, they are not entirely set and forget. Over many kilometres or years, the chain may stretch slightly, or the tensioner may wear, which can cause noise such as rattling, especially on cold starts, and can eventually impact engine timing. If these symptoms occur, it's important to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic familiar with Subaru engines.

So if someone is searching for a timing belt kit for their 2017 Subaru Legacy, they won't find one because Subaru's engineering choice eliminates the need entirely. Instead, owners should focus on routine oil changes, using the correct oil grade as specified in the owner's manual, and listening for any unusual engine noises. These preventative steps help keep the timing chain system running smoothly and extend the engine's lifespan without the hassle of timing belt replacements.

For those who may have previously owned vehicles with timing belts, it can be a relief to know that the 2017 Subaru Legacy bypasses this maintenance task. Timing belt kits usually include the belt itself, tensioners, idler pulleys, and sometimes a water pump, all parts that wear out and must be replaced as a set to avoid failure. With the Legacy, none of that is necessary because the timing system is metal chain-based and designed to last much longer.

To sum it up, the 2017 Subaru Legacy's timing system benefits from Subaru's focus on durability and reliability by using a timing chain rather than a belt. No timing belt kits need purchasing, no belt replacements needed at regular intervals, and no associated maintenance hassles. Instead, owners can enjoy the Legacy's performance knowing the timing mechanism is robust, provided they keep on top of basic engine maintenance like oil changes and regular inspections.