Is there a quick way of inspecting the condition of the timing belt, heard that the right side cover can be removed (looking from front of engine)
Is this correct? and is there a "How to"
Cheers

 

Cover can be removed only a few 10mm bolts holding it on, but id be replacing it if your having to inspect it for peace of mind.

 

The belt was last replaced at 51k and now has 65k but has been five years since the replacement

 

Yes, you have the same dilemma as I had. At a bit over 5 years old I had the belt changed even though there was only 33k on the clock. I had the belt changed recently as the car had reached 11 years but still had only 52k showing.
The belt will deteriorate very slightly with age so it's up to you!
I've had 2 belt changes in just over the mileage for 1 but in my mind I feel safer.
Budget for idler/tensioner replacement to be on the safe side. (Paul at Extreme changed only one idler at the last change)

JohnD

 

As was said by someone recently, until they start putting date stamps on cambelts I won't worry about changing mine every 5yrs.

Mine is over 6yrs old yet still has 5k to go before it's due based on milage, I'll be taking the engine out to do the clutch and a few other bit's in a couple of weeks, so i'll be changing it then.

Make of that what you will.

Just checked and it was last done on 3/3/09 @ 58,324 currently on 116k.

 

Cheers all, both the aux belts require replacing so while in there will have quick visual inspection of the timing belt.
I have complete kit in the shed inc water pump, all idlers, tensioners etc, so will need to get price for this to be fitted

 

Id be changing it, mine had only 8k on the belt when i bought it then noticed it had not been done in over 5 years so car was parked up and timing belt kit ordered and fitted before running it again.

 

I did my cam belt in January this year if ur handy with a set of spanners it's a fairly easy job and very satisfying!! Although I was nervous about turning the key for the first time lol.

 

Not sure who it was exactly (may have been RSMatt) 11yrs and 80k or something daft like that, I also have a friend that did 250km and 17yrs on the same belt all be it on a Toyota.

Subaru's aren't known for being hard on timing belts or water pumps, Tensioners and pulleys can also do 120k, so there's no need to panic.

It's a nice bread and butter earner for garages but belts are much better made and stronger than they used to be 30yrs ago, so keep calm and carry on.