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Faylene

Hi, I am interested in buying a used 2008 Subaru Impreza from a car dealer. The vehicle has done 115,000 km. The dealer does not know for sure if the cam belt was changed at 100,000 km as is the recommended change interval for most vehicles. There is no record written of the cam belt being changed under the bonnet. I assume it hasn't been changed which was a risk taken by the previous owner obviously. Dealer says that there does not have to be a record of a cam belt having been changed under the bonnet. Is this correct?

Anon

Hi there,
Most mechanics when they replace a cambelt either put a sticker under the bonnet or write with a marker to say the date and mileage the belt was replaced.
Subaru cambelts are due at 100k, so if it had been replaced it would look like new( writing on the belt will be fresh). Over time it all fades and you can barely make out the manufacture label. If in doubt it will be best to replace it, so you know it has been done.

Faylene

Cheers for that Cade.