2022 Subaru Outback Serpentine Belt Routing, Length & Part Numbers

As an ASE-certified master technician, I regularly service the 2022 Subaru Outback. Whether you are driving the 2.5L naturally aspirated base model or the 2.4L turbocharged XT, maintaining the accessory drive system is critical to keeping your Outback reliable. If you are preparing to tackle a belt replacement at home, this reference guide provides all the specifications, part numbers, and routing instructions you need.

Quick answer

Note: The following specifications are generally applicable to the 2.5L naturally aspirated flat-four. The 2.4L turbo engine shares a very similar setup, but always verify exact fitment with your parts supplier using your VIN.

• Belt Length: 63.5 inches (approximate)
• Rib Count: 6-rib (6PK)
• OEM Belt Part Number: Subaru 23780AA240 (2.5L) / 23780AA280 (2.4L Turbo)
• Aftermarket Cross-References: Gates K060635, Dayco 5060635, Continental Elite 4060635
• Auto-Tensioner Part Number: Subaru OEM 23769AA050
• Idler Pulley Part Number: Subaru OEM 23770AA070

Belt routing

Pro tip: Always use your smartphone to take a clear photograph of the existing belt routing before you remove it. It will save you a massive headache during reassembly!

Because the 2022 Subaru Outback utilizes Electric Power Steering (EPS), there is no traditional power steering pump in the accessory drive. The belt routing path for the 2.5L engine flows as follows:

1. Start at the large Crankshaft Pulley at the bottom center of the engine.
2. Route the belt smooth-side-up over the Water Pump pulley.
3. Bring the ribbed side down and around the A/C Compressor.
4. Pull the belt straight up to wrap over the top of the Alternator.
5. Route it down beneath the smooth Idler Pulley.
6. Pass the belt under the Auto-Tensioner pulley.
7. Return the belt to the Crankshaft Pulley.

Ensure the ribbed side of the belt seats perfectly into the grooved pulleys (Crank, A/C, Alternator) and the smooth side rides flush against the flat pulleys (Water Pump, Idler, Tensioner).

How to replace the serpentine belt

Replacing the serpentine belt on the 2022 Outback is a straightforward job that typically takes less than 30 minutes.

1. Gather your tools: You will need a dedicated serpentine belt tool or a long-handled 3/8" drive breaker bar / 14mm socket to manipulate the tensioner.
2. Relieve tension: Locate the auto-tensioner assembly on the front of the engine block. Insert your tool into the tensioner pulley bolt or slot. Rotate the tensioner counter-clockwise (or push downward, depending on your tool angle) to relieve the tension on the belt.
3. Remove the belt: Slide the old belt off the easiest-to-reach smooth pulley (usually the idler or the tensioner itself). Slowly release the tensioner back to its resting position. Do not let it snap back.
4. Install the new belt: Route the new belt following the steps in the section above, leaving the tensioner or idler pulley for last.
5. Apply tension: Rotate the tensioner again to create slack, slip the final loop of the belt over the remaining pulley, and gently release the tensioner.
6. Verify: Double-check that all ribs are properly seated in their respective grooves before starting the engine.

Replacement interval

Subaru generally recommends inspecting the serpentine belt during every major service interval (every 12,000 to 15,000 miles). However, a complete replacement of the belt is typically required between 60,000 and 90,000 miles. I always advise replacing the auto-tensioner and idler pulley at the same time as the belt. Bearings inside these pulleys degrade at the same rate as the belt, and a seized pulley will instantly snap a brand-new belt.

Signs of a failing belt or tensioner

Don't wait for your belt to snap and leave you stranded on the side of the road without an alternator or water pump. Keep an eye (and ear) out for these warning signs:

• Squealing or Chirping: A high-pitched squeal on startup or during heavy acceleration usually indicates a stretched belt or a weak auto-tensioner that isn't providing enough clamping force.
• Visible Wear: Look for deep cracks across the ribs, missing chunks of rubber, or frayed edges.
• Accessory Failure: If your A/C stops blowing cold or you get a battery warning light on your dashboard, your belt may be slipping badly or have broken completely.
• Rattling Noises: A metallic rattle from the front of the engine often points to a failing bearing inside the idler pulley or the auto-tensioner.

If you don't feel comfortable tackling this repair yourself, don't worry. Find a trusted shop on Repairius.