Is a 2000 Subaru Outback engine interference or non interference?

Answer 1

Yes, the 2.5L's are all interference valves to pistons. The dohc's can also be interference intake to exhaust valves in addition to pistons to valves. Symptoms of a bent/knicked valve could include loss of power and poor fuel economy. To check for this, among other engine issues, you would do a compression and/or cylinder leak down test.

Answer 2

All Subaru 2.5 L 4 cylinder engines are non-interference. You only need to know this if you plan on having a timing belt break. Change it when prescribed and this information is purely academic. If you plan on running it until it breaks, the engine stops immediately. What if that happens when you are pulling out short in front of a large truck? Why would you ever take the chance?