Q: Brad, I own a 2009 Subaru Forester with around 93,000 miles on it.
I change the oil every 5,000 miles using a synthetic and I have also changed the transmission fluid.
I have not had any problems since I bought it new in 2008 but I am soon taking a road trip to Florida and want your opinion on changing the timing belt and pump.
Subaru says to change it at the 105,000-mile mark. Should I change it before my Florida trip, or wait until I get back? By that time, the vehicle should have close to 105,000 miles on it.
_ Alberto Garcia-Mendoza, California
A: Alberto, if it were my car and I'd be spending about 80 hours behind the wheel, far from home, I'd do the timing belt now, along with a thorough inspection of the car, top to bottom.
The more I learn about cars and what can break, the more apprehensive I become when out on the road.
Because your Forester has an interference engine, a timing belt failure would likely result in a messy and expensive collision of valves and pistons. Such an outcome would be particularly unpleasant were it to happen while, say, passing through Louisiana's Maurepas swamp wildlife area on Interstate 10.
When renewing a Subaru timing belt, it is customary and prudent to install a timing belt kit, which includes the belt, an automatic tensioner, water pump and three idler pulleys. These parts are all necessary for proper belt function, and replacement involves only a bit of additional labor.
You didn't mention performing other services in addition to the oil changes. Have you renewed the spark plugs, fuel filter, brake fluid or cabin air filter? How about belts, hoses, coolant, brakes, struts? For guidance, check Subaru's recommendations for what inspections to perform at 60,000 miles and 90,000 miles.
