Item ID: 60221
Product Code: FB25
Serial Number: FB25 R590225
Year: 2011-2014

Applications:

Please remove the covers and reseal Cam carriers.  Inspect the sprockets and tensioners before installation.  Issues arising from timing chain or tensioner failures are not covered under warranty.

What engine does the 2011–2014 Subaru Forester 2.5L use?

Compatible naturally aspirated Forester models use Subaru’s FB25 2.5L DOHC Boxer engine. Subaru’s 2012 specifications identify the FB25 as a 2,498cc DOHC non-turbo horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine.

Is this an FB25 or FB25B engine?

This engine belongs to Subaru’s FB25 engine family, commonly referenced in JDM replacement-engine searches as FB25 or FB25B. Always compare the actual engine configuration and serial information with your original engine before installation.

Does the Subaru FB25 use a timing belt?

No. The FB25 uses a timing-chain system, unlike earlier Subaru EJ-series applications that commonly used timing belts.

Is this engine turbocharged?

No. This FB25 is a naturally aspirated 2.5L DOHC engine. It should not be confused with turbocharged Subaru engines such as the EJ255.

Has this FB25 been compression tested?

Yes. J-Spec Auto lists this engine as compression tested. However, the current page has a serial-number mismatch that should be corrected before publishing the test results.

What should I replace before installing a used FB25?

Before installation, inspect or replace appropriate:

• Cam-carrier sealing material/seals
• Valve-cover gaskets
• Front crankshaft seal
• Intake and exhaust gaskets
• Water pump
• Thermostat
• Spark plugs
• Worn ignition components
• PCV components as appropriate
• Engine oil
• Oil filter
• Coolant

Additionally, inspect the timing-chain components carefully.

Should the cam carriers be resealed before installation?

J-Spec Auto specifically recommends removing the appropriate covers and resealing the cam carriers before installation.

Performing this work while the engine remains outside the vehicle can also reduce future labor.

Should I inspect the timing chain before installation?

Yes. Inspect the timing chain, guides, sprockets and tensioners before installation. J-Spec Auto’s current listing specifically warns buyers to inspect the sprockets and tensioners.

Should I replace the spark plugs?

Yes. Installing appropriate new spark plugs before installation provides a known maintenance baseline. In addition, inspect the ignition coils, connectors and wiring.

How should I prime the FB25 before first startup?

Do not immediately start the replacement engine after installation.

First, fill the engine with the correct oil and install a new oil filter. Next, disable fuel and ignition according to the applicable Subaru service procedure so the engine cannot start.

Crank the engine in controlled intervals to establish lubrication. Once your technician confirms proper oil circulation, restore the required systems and proceed with initial startup.

How should I bleed the Subaru FB25 cooling system?

Fill the cooling system with the correct coolant according to Subaru service procedures. Next, thoroughly purge trapped air while monitoring coolant level, circulation and engine temperature.

During the initial heat cycle, confirm heater operation, radiator-fan operation and stable engine temperature.

After complete cooldown, recheck the coolant level and inspect for leaks.

Do not consider installation complete until the cooling system is thoroughly bled and maintains a stable operating temperature.

What should I check during first startup?

Monitor the engine for:

• Proper lubrication
• Stable coolant temperature
• Oil leaks
• Coolant leaks
• Fuel leaks
• Abnormal timing-chain noise
• Misfires
• Warning lights
• Cooling-fan operation

Finally, scan the ECU for diagnostic trouble codes and recheck all fluid levels after complete cooldown.

 Installation Checklist

1. Verify the FB25 against the original engine.
2. Compare all vehicle-specific components.
3. Transfer required USDM components.
4. Reseal the cam carriers as appropriate.
5. Replace accessible gaskets and seals.
6. Inspect the timing chain, guides, sprockets and tensioners.
7. Inspect the water pump and thermostat.
8. Install appropriate new spark plugs.
9. Inspect ignition coils and connectors.
10. Install fresh engine oil and a new filter.
11. Prime the lubrication system before startup.
12. Fill and thoroughly bleed the cooling system.
13. Confirm stable operating temperature.
14. Inspect for oil, coolant and fuel leaks.
15. Listen for abnormal timing-chain noise.
16. Scan the ECU for diagnostic trouble codes.
17. Recheck oil and coolant after complete cooldown.

Always follow applicable Subaru factory service procedures and J-Spec Auto warranty requirements.