The FB20 engine has an AVCS variable valve timing system on the intake and outlet camshafts. The timing chain uses a maintenance-free chain. The engine is characterized by the installation of a plastic intake manifold with TGV flaps at the intake to improve environmental performance.
There are several modifications of this engine:
- The FB20B has been produced in Japan since 2010 and is installed on such popular models as Forester, Impreza and XV. This motor is known for its impressive oil consumption from the first kilometers of run.
- The FB20D was first introduced only in 2016 and replaced the FB20B engine under the hood of the popular Impreza and XV models. The new power unit highlights the presence of direct fuel injection instead of distributed.
- The FB20X was produced by the Japanese concern from 2013 to 2017 and was installed on the hybrid versions of the Impreza and XV. Now this engine has given way to a similar unit with direct fuel injection.
Specifications
| Production years | since 2010 |
| Displacement, cc | 1995 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection (FB20B) direct injection (FB20D) distributed injection (FB20X) |
| Power output, hp | 148 – 150 (FB20B) 150 – 156 (FB20D) 162 (FB20X) |
| Torque output, Nm | 196 (FB20B) 196 (FB20D) 221 (FB20X) |
| Cylinder block | aluminum H4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 84 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 90 |
| Compression ratio | 10.5 (FB20B) 12.5 (FB20D) 10.8 (FB20X) |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 0W-20 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.8 (FB20B, FB20X) 4.9 (FB20D) |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 5/6 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Subaru Forester 2012) — city — highway — combined |
10.6 6.7 8.1 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~250 000 |
| Weight, kg | 135 (FB20B) 140 (FB20D) 175 (FB20X) |
| Features | DOHC |
| Phase regulator | Dual AVCS |
The FB20B was installed on:
- Subaru Forester 3 (SH) in 2010 – 2013;
- Subaru Forester 4 (SJ) in 2012 – 2018;
- Subaru Forester 5 (SK) since 2018;
- Subaru Impreza 4 (GJ) in 2011 – 2016;
- Subaru XV 1 (GP) in 2011 – 2017.
The FB20D was installed on:
- Subaru Impreza 5 (GK) since 2016;
- Subaru XV 2 (GT) since 2017.
The FB20X was installed on:
- Subaru Impreza 4 (GJ) in 2015 – 2016;
- Subaru XV 1 (GP) in 2013 – 2017.
Disadvantages of the FB20 engine
- The most famous problem of this unit is oil consumption from the first kilometers;
- It is necessary to use the recommended oil or the phase regulators will fail;
- The engine is very afraid of overheating, monitor the condition of its cooling system;
- The direct injection system made the FB20D very demanding on fuel quality;
- Floating idle is usually caused by electronic throttle glitches.
Frequently asked questions about the Subaru FB20
How much power does the Subaru FB20 make?
Power output of the Subaru FB20, hp: 148 - 150 (FB20B); 150 - 156 (FB20D); 162 (FB20X). Torque, Nm: 196 (FB20B); 196 (FB20D); 221 (FB20X).
How much oil does the Subaru FB20 take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.8 (FB20B, FB20X); 4.9 (FB20D) liters. Recommended oil: 0W-20.
Does the Subaru FB20 have a timing belt or chain?
The Subaru FB20 uses a timing chain.
Is the Subaru FB20 turbocharged?
No, the Subaru FB20 is naturally aspirated.
Does the Subaru FB20 need valve clearance adjustment?
Yes, there are no hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances have to be checked and adjusted periodically.
How long does the Subaru FB20 last?
The typical lifespan of the Subaru FB20 is ~250 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Subaru FB20?
Subaru Forester 2012: city 10.6, highway 6.7, combined 8.1 L/100 km.
What cars was the Subaru FB20 installed on?
Subaru Forester 3 (SH) in 2010 - 2013; Subaru Forester 4 (SJ) in 2012 - 2018; Subaru Forester 5 (SK) since 2018; Subaru Impreza 4 (GJ) in 2011 - 2016; Subaru XV 1 (GP) in 2011 - 2017.
What are the common problems of the Subaru FB20?
The most famous problem of this unit is oil consumption from the first kilometers. It is necessary to use the recommended oil or the phase regulators will fail. All known problems.
