A Deep Dive into the Accessory Drive Belts for the 2004-2008 Subaru Forester
Understanding the two-belt system in your Forester is key to keeping it reliable and on the road.
- Your 2004-2008 Forester has two separate accessory drive belts that should be replaced together.
- Squealing noises and visible cracks are the most common signs that your belts need replacement.
- Aftermarket brands like Bando and Mitsuboshi are often the original equipment suppliers and offer excellent quality.
- Replacing the belts is a manageable DIY task for those with basic tools and can prevent a sudden breakdown.
Signs of a Failing Accessory Drive Belt
The accessory drive belts in your Forester are wear items, meaning they will need to be replaced eventually. Before they fail completely, they usually provide warning signs. Being able to recognize these symptoms can prevent you from being stranded.
One of the most common signs is a squealing or chirping noise from the engine bay. This sound is often more noticeable on cold starts or when turning the steering wheel sharply, and it's caused by the belt slipping on the pulleys. You should also perform a visual inspection of the belts. Look for cracks, fraying, glazing (a shiny surface), or missing ribs. Any visible damage means the belt's integrity is compromised and it should be replaced soon.
A more serious symptom is the failure of the systems powered by the belts. This can include a loss of power steering, making the car very difficult to steer, or the battery light illuminating on your dashboard, which indicates the alternator is no longer charging the battery. If the A/C belt fails, your air conditioning will simply stop blowing cold air.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Belts
When it comes to replacing the drive belts on your Forester, you have options. While you can get parts from a Subaru dealer, high-quality aftermarket parts can offer the same performance and reliability, often at a better price.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Quality
For many Japanese vehicles like your Subaru, the companies that make the "Genuine Subaru" parts are also selling those same parts under their own brand name in the aftermarket. Brands like Bando and Mitsuboshi are well-known original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) for Subaru and other Japanese automakers. Choosing one of these brands often means you are getting a part of the exact same quality as the one you'd buy at the dealership, without the dealership price tag.
Here's a breakdown of the available brands:
- Bando / Mitsuboshi: These are considered top-tier, OEM-equivalent brands. They are known for their excellent quality and durability, and many Subaru owners and mechanics prefer them as direct replacements.
- ACDelco: While more commonly associated with GM vehicles, ACDelco is a reputable brand that produces reliable aftermarket parts for a wide range of vehicles, including your Forester. They are a solid choice if an OEM-equivalent brand is not available.
A Common Ordering Mistake
Remember, your 2004-2008 Forester has two separate belts. One is for the alternator and power steering, and the other is for the A/C. It is highly recommended to replace both at the same time, as they have been exposed to the same conditions and wear at a similar rate. You cannot access the A/C belt without first removing the alternator/power steering belt, so replacing both at once saves on future labor.
Accessory Drive Belt Replacement Cost (2004-2008 Subaru Forester)
The cost to replace the accessory drive belts can vary based on whether you do the work yourself or hire a professional mechanic. The parts themselves are not expensive.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Belts (Set of 2) | $15 - $38 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $200 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $115 - $238 |
Note: Prices are estimates and can vary based on location, supplier, and the specific brands chosen. The provided aftermarket price range is based on the specified brands.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace my Forester's drive belts?
There isn't a strict mileage interval, but it's wise to inspect the belts at every oil change. A general guideline is to check them thoroughly around 40,000 miles and every 6,000 miles after that. Replace them at the first sign of cracking, fraying, or persistent noise.
Is replacing the drive belts a DIY job?
Yes, for many home mechanics, this is a feasible DIY job. The process involves loosening the tension on each belt by adjusting the alternator and the A/C belt tensioner pulley, swapping the belts, and then re-tensioning them. Basic hand tools like a socket wrench set are all that's required.
Should I replace the tensioners or pulleys with the belts?
The 2004-2008 Forester uses a manual tensioning system rather than automatic spring-loaded tensioners for the main belt. The A/C belt has a separate tensioner pulley. While you don't always need to replace these components, you should inspect the A/C tensioner pulley for any roughness or noise when you spin it. If it doesn't spin smoothly, it should be replaced to prevent damage to the new belt.
Are there any recalls or TSBs for the drive belts on this Forester?
Searches of the NHTSA database did not show any recalls specifically for the accessory drive belts on the 2004-2008 Subaru Forester. While some Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) exist for belt noise on other Subaru models, none were found to be specific to this generation Forester.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: Alternator & Power Steering Belt: 809218450 (supersedes 809218300, 809218310, 809218380, 809218430) A/C Belt: 73323AC000 (supersedes 73323AC010, 73323AC011)
System Type: Dual V-Ribbed Belts. Tensioning System: Manual adjustment for both belts.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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