Parts for your 2018 Subaru Impreza-Timing belt kit

Timing Belt Kit for the 2018 Subaru Impreza: What You Need to Know

When it comes to the 2018 Subaru Impreza, it's important to clarify something right up front: this model does not use a timing belt. Instead, it is fitted with a timing chain. This means that timing belt kits, as a concept, are not relevant or necessary for this particular vehicle. But why exactly is a timing belt kit not used on the 2018 Subaru Impreza, and what does that mean for maintenance? Let's break it down.

Subaru has long been known for using timing chains in many of its engines, especially the newer ones like those found in the 2018 Impreza. A timing chain is a metal chain, similar to a bike chain, that connects the crankshaft to the camshaft(s), ensuring all the engine's valves open and close at the right time. Unlike timing belts, chains are made from durable metal and run inside the engine, typically lubricated by engine oil. This design makes timing chains far more durable and often longer-lasting than timing belts.

Timing belts, by contrast, are made from rubber with embedded fibres for strength. Over time, belts can wear, stretch, or crack due to exposure to heat, oil, and age. For many cars that use them, timing belts need a regular replacement as part of scheduled maintenance. This replacement often comes bundled in a timing belt kit, which includes the belt itself, tensioners, idler pulleys, and sometimes a water pump, because it is efficient to replace all those components at once when servicing the belt.

So, the 2018 Subaru Impreza skips the timing belt altogether. Its timing chain is designed to last the life of the engine in most cases, which removes the need for the usual timing belt service intervals or timing belt kits. This has several benefits for owners, such as less frequent major services and reduced risk of sudden engine failure caused by a snapped timing belt.

However, just because it doesn't have a timing belt doesn't mean the 2018 Subaru Impreza is completely maintenance free in this area. Timing chains can wear too, though typically far later in the life of the vehicle. The chain relies on proper tension maintained by tensioners and the health of the engine's oil system because poor lubrication can lead to chain wear or stretching. Thankfully, most owners never need to replace the chain itself, but being aware of symptoms like rattling noises on startup is important.

For those maintaining a 2018 Subaru Impreza, regular oil changes using the correct oil type and adhering to Subaru's servicing schedule will help keep the timing chain system in good condition. Unlike vehicles that require a timing belt kit replacement every 100,000 kilometres or so, the focus here is on overall engine health and oil quality.

So what would a timing belt kit actually do on a different vehicle? While not applicable to the 2018 Impreza, it helps to understand its purpose. A timing belt kit generally includes a new timing belt, tensioners, and other components required to ensure correct timing system operation. Replacing the timing belt kit as a whole set prevents future failures - a timing belt snapping can cause serious engine damage, sometimes even catastrophic failure. The kit components are replaced all at once to reduce labour costs and enhance reliability.

Considering this, the timing belt replacement interval is critical to follow on vehicles that use belts. Most manufacturers recommend changing the belt every 60,000 to 160,000 kilometres or every 5 to 7 years, whichever comes first. If a timing belt is left too long, risk of failure increases, which could lead to costly repairs.

Many timing belt kits also include the water pump, which is often driven by the timing belt. Replacing the water pump along with the belt is wise because it prevents having to disassemble the timing components twice. This comprehensive approach ensures the whole system works reliably going forward.

For Subaru Impreza owners, the good news is you won't have to worry about timing belt kits at all. Just remember that maintenance revolves around keeping your engine oil fresh and changing it when recommended. Keep an ear out for any unusual noises, and if you do hear persistent rattling from the front of the engine, it's worth having a mechanic check the timing chain tensioners to avoid any problems down the track.

In short, the 2018 Subaru Impreza benefits from a maintenance-friendly timing system with its timing chain setup and does not require timing belt kit replacements. This means less hassle, fewer parts to replace, and often peace of mind that comes with a durable timing chain designed for longevity. Just maintain your engine oil properly, and your Impreza's timing system will keep ticking along nicely for many kilometres to come.