When did Subaru fix their head gasket problem?

After 2009, newer models using the EL25 2.5-liter engine should have far fewer head gasket problems because Subaru started using a multi-layered steel cylinder-head gasket. Starting in 2012, reports say the Japanese automaker redesigned the 2.5-liter engine in the Forester and Outback and has fixed the problem.

How much does it cost to replace a head gasket on a Subaru?

The average base head gasket job for a 2.5-liter engine is $1,500 to $1,800 that’s including Parts & Labor. Adding additional items such as Timing Belt & Components, Water Pump, Spark Plugs & Oil Seals, etc runs in the range of $2,200 to $2700.

How hard is it to change a head gasket on a Subaru?

In most cases, a Subaru head gasket replacement takes two full days. This gives us time to repair, road test and recheck the vehicle. Every so often we run into a parts problem and the repair could take longer.

At what mileage do Subaru head gaskets fail?

How long will a head gasket repair last? The original head gaskets on a Subaru 2.5 engine tend to fail between 100,000 and 150,000 miles. Most replacement gaskets last just as long.

Which Subaru engines to avoid?

Subaru 2.5-L Turbo Four Cylinder Owners of 2009-14 Subaru Impreza WRX and WRX STI models have launched a class-action lawsuit, alleging the pistons and PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) systems in the high-performance 2.5-L turbocharged engines may overheat or malfunction, requiring a king’s ransom in repairs.

Why are Subarus so unreliable?

One of the core reasons that Subaru reliability has dropped is due to the problems that the Outback and Legacy have had with in-car technology. This is a common reason for declining dependability in a number of makes and models since the early 2000s. Many cars today have a great deal of new and complex technology.

Will Subaru pay for head gasket repair?

Subaru will prepay the dealer for the head gaskets, but only if you have very good service history from the dealer.

How do I know if my Subaru head gasket is bad?

7 Possible Signs of a Bad Head Gasket

Milky Engine Oil.
Overheating Engine.
Bubbles in the Radiator.
White Exhaust Smoke.
Blue Exhaust Smoke.
Cylinder Misfire.
Low Coolant. If the coolant in your vehicle is lower than it should be, a head gasket may be the culprit.

When should I replace my Subaru head gasket?

The original head gaskets on a Subaru engine have a life between 100,000 and 150,000 miles. Most replacement head gaskets last just as long.

Which Subaru engines have head gasket problems?

A number of Subaru models are affected, however the most common failures include the 2.5 Liter SOHC engine used in the late 1999-2004, Forester, Impreza, Outback and Legacy. Signs and symptoms of engine head gasket failure include: Engine overheating. Unexplained loss of engine coolant without an obvious sign of …

Is the Subaru 2.5 a good engine?

Despite Subaru’s track record for reliable vehicles, their 2.5 L engine has become almost infamous in the automobile industry for having problems. Specifically, these engines have been susceptible to leaking head gaskets and it was such an ongoing issue that it almost became a joke amongst mechanics.

Do all Subarus have head gasket problems?

The wide range of Subaru head gasket problems means that numerous models have engine issues. Subaru head gasket problems are prevalent in 2006 in every model except for the Baja. Subaru head gasket problems are in every model in 2007 except for the Baja. In 2010, the problems affected the Subaru Forester and Impreza.

When did the head gasket fail on my Subaru?

The main problem years are 1996 through 2004. The most common engine to have head gasket failures is the naturally aspirated (non turbo) Subaru 2.5 L four cylinder engine, commonly known as the EJ25 motor. The single overhead camshaft (SOHC) variant experiences failures much more frequently than the dual overhead camshaft design (DOHC).

Is there a multi layer head gasket for Subaru?

Subaru has been using a multi layer for a couple of years now. The newest models haven’t been out long enough to see what the results are but hopefully for all, we see a reduction in the frequency of head gasket repairs. Just keep up on the maintenance and your Subaru should give you many trouble free miles.

What are the models that have head gasket problems?

The breakdown of the affected models are the Subaru Forester from 1999-2010, Impreza from 1999 to 2011, Outback from 2000-2011, Legacy from 2000-2009, and Baja from 2003-2005. The wide range of Subaru head gasket problems means that numerous models have engine issues.

What to do if you have a head gasket leak?

One of the telltale symptoms of a head gasket leak is an overheating engine. If your engine starts to overheat, pull over to let it cool down for a bit before you continue driving.