2000 Subaru Outback - 210,000 miles. timing chain?

Timing belts are to be changed every 105,000 miles according to Subaru but don't push the limits, If it has been 100k since the last one go ahead and get an appointment with your mechanic. Be sure and replace the water pump and the timing belt idler wheels.

razzlefratz-. F_O_R is absolutely correct.. and just for the record, your car has the 2.5 FOUR cylinder engine... The 3.0 H6 engine was introduced on the 2001 model year. If you really had the H6 engine, then this would be a different story...

You're BOTH wroing here, guys. Unusual foir FOR, but normal for Grasshopper. The critical criterion is condition and AGE of belt...NOT mileage! Just look at it, and if uncracked drive until it's at least 8-10 years old. Check condition annually if you feel like it. You might indeed snapoff an idler or develop a leaky tension adjuster, but it's unlikely. Note that the wp is almost NEVER a concern. Keep it simple...and cheap.

Guru - that is the factory spec. Sure you can inspect it and that is good but facts are facts.

A factory guideline is a recommendation...not a "fact".

Ernie, yeah, I respectfully disagree with you on this... And, If people want to believe that there's no risk in waiting, well, that's their risk... It's cheap insurance to replace these critical components rather than get stranded in the middle of nowhere or worse blow up the "interference engine" when the timing belt fails. As for the water pump and thermostat, yes, you KNOW that they are critically important so you don't overheat the car, seize up the engine and blow the heads and head gaskets. Wait, they can always purchase a new car....Why didn't I think of that?

"Cheap insurance"? The actual statistical data suggests otherwise, Grasshopper.