Parts for your 2020 Subaru Impreza-Timing belt kit

2020 Subaru Impreza timing-belt-kit — is it used?

The 2020 Subaru Impreza does not use a timing-belt-kit. This model runs Subaru’s FB20 2.0‑litre boxer four, which is chain‑driven. Because the cams are driven by a timing chain inside the engine, there’s no timing belt to replace and no timing-belt-kit that applies to this vehicle.

Technical sources that confirm this include: the Subaru Service Manual for the 2020MY Impreza (FB20 engine, timing chain drive section), Subaru’s official maintenance schedule for the model (no timing belt replacement interval listed), and aftermarket catalogues from major belt manufacturers (such as Gates and Dayco) that list “chain” or “N/A” for a timing belt on this year’s Impreza. Subaru technical information (TechInfo) likewise specifies a chain for FB‑series engines.

Why no timing-belt-kit? Subaru moved the Impreza to the FB engine family with a chain to improve durability, packaging, and emissions performance. A timing chain runs in oil, is tensioned hydraulically, and is designed to last the life of the engine under normal conditions. With variable valve timing hardware under the bonnet, the chain setup offers better long-term stability than a rubber belt.

• No scheduled belt change: there’s no kilometre-based timing belt interval on the 2020 Impreza.
• Lower risk of sudden belt failure: chains are metal and more tolerant of heat and age, provided oil changes are kept up.
• Different maintenance focus: oil quality and correct viscosity are critical to chain, guide, and tensioner health.

What owners should do instead: keep to the service schedule, use the oil grade specified for the local market (commonly 0W‑20 full‑synthetic), and avoid stretching intervals. If there’s a rattle on cold start, a check‑engine light with cam timing codes, or metal in the oil, have a specialist inspect the chain, guides, and tensioners. It’s also wise to check for oil leaks around the timing cover during routine servicing.

If a shop offers a “timing-belt-kit” for a 2020 Impreza, they’re likely confusing it with the accessory/serpentine drive belt, which is external and entirely separate from the timing system. The timing-belt-kit simply isn’t a relevant part for this model year Impreza.

Popular questions about 2020 Subaru Impreza timing-belt-kit

Does the 2020 Subaru Impreza have a timing belt or a chain?
It has a timing chain. Subaru’s FB20 engine uses a chain-driven valvetrain, so there’s no timing belt fitted and no timing-belt-kit used. This is supported by the Subaru Service Manual and major aftermarket application guides.

Is there a timing belt replacement interval on a 2020 Impreza?
No. Because it uses a chain, there’s no scheduled belt replacement. The chain isn’t considered a routine service item, instead, keeping engine oil fresh and to spec is the key maintenance requirement.

What are signs the timing chain system needs attention?
Listen for a brief rattle on cold starts that doesn’t go away, watch for cam/crank correlation fault codes, rough idle, or metal debris in oil during servicing. Any of these warrant a professional inspection of the chain, guides, and tensioners.