Subaru Head Gasket, Will Subaru pay for repair?
Have you been a victim of this?
Many Subaru owners have been faced with the dreaded head gasket failure on their Subaru. There has been much discussion about what the problem is, why it happened etc. I would like to discuss another subject that doesn’t come up often.
Is there any way Subaru will pay for my head gasket repair and how do I get them to do it?
Let’s start out with a few basics and work from there. When you first purchase your Subaru it comes with a factory backed warranty. A 3 year/36,000 mile bumper to bumper and a 5 year 60,000 mile powertrain warranty is standard. If you have head gasket failure within that time you are one of the lucky ones. Once that warranty expires you’re on your own.
Now I would like to share some of my experiences on how Subaru owners whose warranty expired did their homework and were fortunate enough to have Subaru pay for the repair.
For the most part I’ve found that dealing with Subaru of America is a pleasant experience. They are very straight forward reasonable people that want you to be happy with their Subaru. Unfortunately they have to draw a line somewhere or Subaru would have limitless requests of persons wanting their Subarus repaired way outside of warranty.
In the old days of the automotive industry, we wouldn’t think twice if a car had a major mechanical failure at 60,000 miles or more. At 100,000 we thought it was a major milestone and were ready to trade it in on the next car before it broke down.
With advancements in engineering and higher quality control, we’re seeing Subarus and many other makes go well over 300,000 without any major failures as long as a person has kept up on their maintenance.
Now that our expectations have been raised on how long a car should last, we’re thrown a bit of a curve ball when our head gaskets fail before we think they should. Especially if one has been meticulous about their maintenance.
If you happen to be a victim of failing head gaskets on your Subaru there are some things that some of our customers have shared with us that were helpful in getting Subaru to pay for the repair even though the cars were technically out of the warranty period.
1. Check with the dealer for any outstanding campaigns or recalls.
A simple call to any Subaru service department with your VIN # will reveal if there are any outstanding recalls or campaigns relating to your head gaskets. There was a campaign ( WWP-99 ) in which Subaru added a coolant additive and would then provide a 8 year 100,000 mile warranty for external head gasket coolant leakage. Most of those cars are now beyond the limits of the campaign but it never hurts to check.
2. Keep your Subaru maintained and save every receipt.
Even under the factory warranty, Subaru can deny a claim if they believe lack of maintenance contributed to the problem. It’s within your rights to have your maintenance done anywhere you like so don’t let them use that as a reason, but you must be able to provide them with documentation that you have met their minimum maintenance requirements as defined in the warranty manual that came with your Subaru.
3. Put together a history of all the Subarus that you and your family may have purchased over the years.
This may be very good leverage to show them that you are a very loyal client. It may even help on a local level with a Subaru dealer you’ve purchased your car through.
4. Call 1-800-SUBARU3
This is the customer service hotline to begin your effort to get help from Subaru. Once you’ve done all of the above, call Subaru and explain your situation. They will likely refer you to a local Subaru dealer to confirm the issue before discussing things further. They will also likely be in close contact with that dealer.You may even want to ask for an appointment with the regional Subaru rep. for that dealer. It may make sense for him/her to be present when your car is being looked at.
From there things can go in many different directions. Here’s a few examples I’ve heard of.
A customer schedules their appointment with the dealer. The dealer confirms the issue then relays the info to Subaru. From there a decision is made whether or not Subaru the dealer will participate in the repair.
Whether they offer to help will usually be related to all of the above items I discussed. Once it’s been decided you’ll either be told no, or they will offer to fix the car. The level of participation can vary . In some cases the whole repair will be covered by Subaru. In other cases Subaru may say no but the dealer decides to use some of their own discretionary good will fund to help you out. Most dealerships have a fund set aside just for this kind of situation. You may be offered some kind of partial help also. An example may be either a discounted price or a split between you and the dealer.
Keep in mind that if they do opt to help, they will only repair the very minimum that is necessary. If only one head gasket is failing they will only repair one. If that is the case you might inquire how much it would be to add in the second head gasket and timing belt since things will be partially apart anyway and the second gasket may fail in the future.
Smart Service will always be there to repair Subaru head gaskets and we even carry a gasket that we believe is Superior to what Subaru has to offer. If that time comes give us a call and we’ll take good care of you but if there’s a chance that you can get it done and paid for by Subaru it’s worth a little effort.
Based on our customer reports, Subaru is choosing to opt out of helping in most cases but I am writing this because there have been a few that actually did get help from Subaru. The information above is what helped them sway Subaru into partcipating.
If you were successful for you in getting help from Subaru in an out of warranty situation, please share it with us. We’ll pass it on.
Cheers,
Mike Corbin
Hi there,
So i was given a forester by my mother and it has under 100,00 mile on it and i have been told that i need new gaskets on the passenger side of the car since i know that there are two heads in the type of car. I had a quote of 1900 to get that done might you be cheaper. my car is not using any oil but i can every once in a while smell some burning after i driven the car. Thank you for your time. Nancy Knuckles
My 2004 Subaru outback with only 46K miles went in for a diagnostic (they offer to check everything for you), and the result was a head gasket problem that would cost roughly $3000. I called the service manager and told him this was outrageous in a car with only 46,000 miles. He looked in his system and saw that: I had purchased this car and two others from his dealership; I had performed all the scheduled maintenance religiously, including the 45,000 service within the past 6 months; I had also purchased the extended warranty, which was expired by time but not by mileage. He said he would “help me” and did. Subaru covered 100% of the repair cost. He also got me a free loaner car.
Hi Nancy,
$1900 is a reasonable quote depending how much is being done and what kind of parts are being used. Our price on that job ranges from a bare minimum of $1599 all the way to $2600 if you add all the bells and whistles during the job.
Mike
I’m glad to hear your situation had a happy ending! It was smart to point out your relationship and history to the dealership. It’s too bad that that what it takes to get something done on something we all probably agree is happening too soon and too often.
Good job!
Mike Corbin
Hey Mike,
You site is VERY helpful. Thank you for this great service.
On the market for a used Subie and while doing my research, the head gasket problem is something that keeps coming up. First of all, I am looking to buy a used Subie (Outback or Forrester) for $5K, which puts me right in that sweet spot for the head gasket problems on most subies I’ve been checking out (100K – 150K).
A couple of questions:
1) Approx how frequent is this HG prob in the 2.5L engines? 5 out of 10 cars? less? Happy w/ a guestimate.
2) Are there any steps I can take PRIOR to purchasing my used Subie? Besides taking it to a mechanic of course…
3) 2000-2004 Impreza’s will have the same prob? correct?
THANK YOU in advance
-Claudio
Hi Claudio, Here’s a few answers to help you in your quest to find a Subaru to fit your needs.
1. Depending on how old the Subaru is you are purchasing, if it has never had head gaskets replaced yet, I would budget for it in your future. The best situation is if you can buy a Subaru that’s had them done already. With the phase 1 and phase 2 2.5 L. engines and the changes we’ve seen in the Subaru headgasket over the years it’s hard to even make a guestimate on what the failure rate is.
2. Get a carfax first. If that is clean, have it checked out at a mechanic, have him look visibly very closely at the head gaskets and the coolant level. Also have the cooling system checked for the presence of hydrocarbons (exhaust getting into the coolant from failing headgaskets). Last but not least, call the local dealer with the VIN # and ask if there are any outstanding recalls or campaigns on that particular Subaru.
3. We do head gasket replacements on 2000-2004 Imprezas as well (with the exception of the WRX). The 2.0 turbo motor is appearing to have a much less frequent failure rate than the non-turbo Subaru engine based on the cars we’ve had come through our shop.
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert
Hi Mike,
Thanks for answering these questions. I recently bought an ’06 Legacy, and love it. But the last few days I’ve noticed that the engine has been running hot (thought the temperature gauge says cool) and I’ve smelt burning coming from the engine. Yesterday, the CEL came on. I checked the engine, and the coolant level was very low, so I replenished it. But reading the commments above, I’m now worried it might be a HG issue. Do these sound like symptoms for the HG issue? I plan to bring it to your shop in a few days to get the CEL diagnosed.
Thanks,
Greg
I would be surprised if it were actually a head gasket issue on a Subaru that new, but the evidince should be obvious once we diagnose it. My concern is finding out why the coolant was low. Did a prior owner not properly top up the radiator? Subarus are a but finicky burping out the coolant during a coolant change and that could explain it. There are other possibilities too which all involve diagnosing why it became low on coolant.
See you soon at the shop,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert
Just ran across this website trying to get some info on Subaru service. My daughter and I bought her a used 2009 Legacy with a 2.5L GT LTD engine, with 26,000 miles. First, after a couple of months, it started running badly and we took it in. First time, they said nothing, the oil had been changed it was smoke from spillage. Kept running funny. Took it in again. Told us it was the oil sending valve. They fixed, and on the way home ti started smoking again. Took it right back. This time, after a week, we were told it was the turbo and it would have to be replaced, but was under original factory warranty. They took about 2 weeks but fixed it, gave us a loaner in the meantime, and it ran well for a couple of months.
Recently, it lost power when she was driving and stopped running. NO warning lights, no smoke, no pinging, no noise, just stopped. When she tried to start it, it sounded like a jackhammer. Towed to a dealership and the service guy told us that a rod had been thrown. They made us dig up all the receipts we had for oil changes. We could find the last four, including one done just 3 weeks prior, but could not account for a period of about 10-12,000 miles. Daughter said she paid cash, and in one case they didn’t ask her name at the Subaru dealership, just did the oil change, in and out.
The service manager contacted SOA for warranty (we had 60,000 and extended warranty, and Gold Plus coverage). They denied liability based on no maintenance records from 26,000 to 40,000. Daughter is trying to get those from the places she had the oil changed, but being young and naive, she paid cash and doesn’t have receipts.
I saw that this exact engine, 2.5 L Turbo – had a stop sale in 2008 and 2009, and have had several friends tell me of cases of getting new engines when they heard a noise. Looking it up on the internet, my daughter’s car’s VIN is JUST after the stop range.
What should I do next? We are trying to get the other records. I believe my daughter when she says she went in every 4-5000 for an oil change, although not always at a dealership. I don’t believe for one second that this was caused by lack of maintenance or anything else – I beleive this is the same probloem I have been reading about with 2008 and early 2009 engines.
One service manager (where we bought the car) suggested calling the regional Subaru service manager first. I have not been able since then to get the number. I have tried calling SOA 3 times, and all 3 times on hold for over an hour.
Do you have some advice?
Frustrated father, Larry Ellis
Hi Larry,
I sympathize with your dilemma on your daughters Subaru. I know how difficult it can be to straighten out a situation when you’re not in the middle of it.
The first part of the question I’d like to address is the failure of the turbo. I have seen the 2005 and newer Subaru Legacy GT’s develop an issue in the oil supply line to the turbocharger and AVCS (active valve control system). Due to oil sludge buildup in the fine mesh of the screen, the oil supply to the turbo is restricted thus causing the turbo bearing to fail from lack of lubrication. In my experience, most of these turbo failures result in the metal particles of the bearing circulating throughout the engine. These screens seem to plug up more frequently on vehicles have had their oil changed less often than manufacturer recommends. I’m sure other items contribute also but in most the cases we’ve seen the oil change frequency was much less than what Subaru recommends (3750 miles or 3.7months-whichever comes first).
Once the turbo bearing fails and metalic particles are circulated through out the engine, (evident when draining the oil of a Subaru whose turbo has failed) there is a possibility that metal causes subsequent damage to the engine bearings, cam bearings and or oil pump. Also, if the oil was not changed as often as required or allowed to be driven with a low oil level, internal engine damage can occur.
I’ve seen situations during a turbo replacement that resulted in metal in the oil that the customer opts to take their chances and just install the new turbo, change the oil and hope for the best. For some cars this has worked fine but others were back within weeks with lower engine bearing knocking as the rod bearings had worn excessively.
Were you advised to change the engine oil and clean out the turbo oil supply lines,screens etc when they first repaired the turbo? What was the condition of the oil? This might be a point to bring up in your discussions. Calling 1-800-Subaru3 is the best way to get things accomplished even if you are put on hold.
If you can find your records that would be greatly to your benefit. I recommend your daughter goes to each business she had the oil changed and request the record. Even if a person pays cash for an oil change but lost their receipt, the business should still have the record on file and can usually find it by just entering the license plate in their system. From there they can reprint you receipt of the service. Even hand written work orders are made in triplicate and saved for the companies records.
Subaru as well as other manufacturers don’t have the same ability to good will repairs in todays economic climate and are very specific on their requirements in order to provide repairs under warranty. They will stand behind their vehicles 100% but they expect a Subaru owner closely follows the service intervals recommended in the owners manual.
I hope this helps you out Larry. If you have any other concerns or questions, please call me at 206-417-0880.
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert
I have a 2001 Subaru Legacy with a leaky head gasket (oil leakage, aroma of burnt oil, slightly less power when driving, etc). Because of the high cost of HG replacement ($3,000), I have decided to do it myself. I have some mechanic experience, evening classes, etc. I have replaced a gasket on a honda (didn’t need to take out engine, because HG on top). I have the service manual for my 2001 Subaru Legacy and have been studying it. I also youtube for subaru engine swap. Any suggestions for other resources on I have should best prepare myself for this job. This is my third Subaru I have owned. Signed, a heart broken Subaru, that is seeking desperate means to keep my beloved Subaru. Thanks.
If you don’t have the genuine Subaru manual, I’d consider purchasing an individual subscription to Alldata.com.
This will give you step by step procedures, torquing sequence etc. If you have the genuine Subaru shop manual then just use it and follow it to the letter.
Take your time and stay very organized. Pre-read the procedure fully before starting.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert
Hi Mike;
I have a couple of questions.
I bought a 2001 subaru Legacy L last year, with 98k miles, now it has 106K. Shortly after I bought it the CEL came on P420 code. Over the year I had o2 sensors checked, they said normal range, Cat converter checked, no rattling, mechanic said do not replace, just put seafoam product in engine to blow out gunk. I did not have him do it as he had trouble putting the air filter back on. yikes ;(. It is still on intermittley, well mostly on. What do I do?
Now I have a bigger problem, the engine overheated, and the verdict is head gasket, because there is exhaust in the antifreeze. Estimates are $1500-$1600.00, ouch. I called Subaru3, they said to take it to dealer for diagonstic check. then call back. I will have it towed there as it heats up in just a few miles. The dealer said the recall is only for external leaks, and mine is internal. In my opinion a bad head gasket is a bad head gasket, internal or external. Is a dealer the best option or another mechanic that is a subaru specialist. I do not want to get ripped off. Is this going to be a money pit? I switched from Toyota to subaru, and with these expensive problems, not impressed.
Thanks,
Debbie
Per our discusson over the phone about your Subaru head gaskets, please let me how it works out in the end Debbie.
Thanks,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert
Hi Mike;
SOA came thru, and covered $500.00 of the bill because it was an external as well as an internal leak. He checked the timing belt as well as water pump and did not need replacing as they looked new. So I hope this will be the end of major repairs for my car. Well, except for the CEL p0420 code.:( Any suggestions on that?
Thanks Mike,
Debbie
Glad to hear you got some help Debbie! On your PO420 code… I’d suggest having your your catalytic converter tested with a Subaru select monitor scan tool (actually monitor the oxygen sensors) to see if the cat is truley worn out. It would not be out of the question for the catalytic converter to be showing signs of age by now.
Cheers,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert
2006 Subaru Outback rough idle and stalling
have a 2006 subaru outback2.5L XT that idles rough pretty much all the time and the rpm gauge fluctuates at stop lights. The car also stalls at low speeds and almost always about 1/2 a mile from my house when the engine is cool and seems to not do it as much when the engine is warm. No mechanic can figure out what it is yet. Gas mileage is getting bad, check engine light is on. One mechanic thought it was the fuel injector, then an engine coil (although diagnostic does not point here). Now they think it is a head gasket. Any help?
Did the check engine light coincide with the problem? A bit more info on what the diagnostic code was for the check engine light may help me understand the problem a little better. Your Subaru has AVCS or Active Valve Control System which can become stuck if the oil is cold and sludgey. It’s common on turbo equiped Subarus of your model year when the oil system has been neglected. It’s not as common on a well maintained Subaru but can still happen.
Send me more info on the check engine light when you can.
Mike Corbin
Smart Serivice
Independent Subaru Expert
I have a 2004 Outback that I purchased used in 2005. Last winter I had the oil changed and they accidentally drained the transmission fluid. Since then the oil temp sensor light has flashed on periodically. This summer I used it to tow a trailer that was on the upper end of the max recommended weight. It was a very hot day and I had to keep my speed under 55 mph to keep the engine temp down.
Recently I have been going through coolant at an alarming rate. My local repair guy put the car on a lift and said the leaks are at the water pump and head gasket. He wants to replace both for $2500. He did not pull the head gasket or water pump out to look at them. Instead he is assuming they need to be replaced based on where he saw leaking coolant.
The car now has 100k miles on it and I am trying to decide whether or not to go ahead and do the repairs or trade it in. If I can’t afford to fix both at once, can the water pump wait?
I thought they had fixed the head gasket issues in the 2004 models?
Hi JP
Well, if you’ve kept the car well maintained I’d probably opt to repair the head gaskets and waterpump at the same time since there is overlapping labor. The quote seems reasonable. They don’t necessisarily need to remove the water pump or head gaskets to confirm that they are leaking. If there is visible coolant leaking externally from either that is enough to go on.
As far as the transmission goes… One would need to see if the AT temp light is storing a fault code or actually getting hot. The AT Temp light is to alert you about temperature of ATF but also serves as the “check engine light” for the transmission and usually has a fault code associated with it.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert
I have at 2002 impreza with 103,000 miles. I love this car and have kept her well maintained. Just today I was told that I need to replace my head gaskets as they are starting to leak and it will cost about $1100. I just had her serviced at 100,000 miles (and at a cost of $1500 -new struts) and the gasket issue was not noticed. While looking back at my service records I noticed that at 59000 miles I had the head gasket replaced. This seems strange to me to have to do the same major (and pricy) repair again on a well maintained car. I bought this car brand new and am the only driver. Any advice?
Well, if you like the car you are going to have to fix it. Not necessarily right away though. You want to ask the shop,” How bad are they leaking?” and “What type of fluid is leaking”
If they are only leaking oil, you may not need to do anything for quite some time. It’s when they find a coolant leak that immediate action has to be taken. Just beware that some shops may be a bit overly agressive in recommending gaskets due to the public knowledge of the Subaru head gasket issue. When in doubt, get a second opinion or even have them raise it up in the air so you can see for yourself.
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert in Seattle
206-417-0880
hi Mike:
appreciate your website … having head gasket issues on a 2002 outback with 66K. Anti-freeze coming out of the back of the drivers side cylinder head …
This is a well cared for, well serviced car that’s been in my family its entire life … Its painful to think that this known factory defect has to be fought over.
Are there any magic words to use with the Subaru Service Person to get them to do a fix on it?
Thanks
I think you included the magic words in your post. I think showing a history of the service records, along with the low mileage would be a great start. Hopefully you had the Subaru coolant conditioner recall done also.
Last but not least, don’t be afraid to call 1-800-SUBARU3 and see what kind of help you can get directly from the manufacturer.
Good luck,
Mike
I bought new my 2002 Outback. All the maintenace has been done by authorized Subaru dealerships. I keep strict records and I change oil every 3K miles. I put about 8K miles a year on the car. At 50K miles, in 2006, the Left head gasket was leaking and the engine was over-heating.
I never received the W-99 recall notice covering the LHG. Subaru paid for the repair under warranty recall.
Then in July 2010 at 80K, during a routine oil change, it was noted the LHG was leaking (that is 30K since the fix).
The garage was hesitant to help as I was over the 60K miles the warranty. All my extended family own Subaru’s,
I wanted to talk with the district rep. The serive manager said he would. It was also documented in all services that the lubricant was added to the coolant.
The agreement was Subaru would cover the LHG again, and I paid the additional cost for the RHG. On the bill it states the repair covered as a goodwill gesture as per Subaru District Service Manager.
I also had the timing belt and 90K service done at the same time.
Now I wonder how long the “fix” will last.
hello mike: I took your advice, made nice with the dealer and they replaced the head gasket on both sides of my 2002 outback. I asked them to put in a new timing belt even though the car only has 67,000 miles on it. They charged me $200 for everything.
150 miles later, I was driving on the expressway, when I heared a slight clicking sound which sounded like a lifter ..and then it went to a loud clacking ..the car began slowing and I pulled over as soon as I could get out of the traffic. The engine did not overheat or the CEL did not come on,
I shut the engine down and it would not re-start for a couple of hours .. it turned over slowly but it would not fire… 3 hours later, when it ws towed to the dealers lot, I then was able to start it briefly and it clacked away like crazy. Sounds to me like a rod bearing or two is going.
The question: who is on the hook for this? Could something the dealer did on the top end cause these kind of problems or am I on the hook with a lunched engine?
thanks
frank
I think the fact that it happened within 150 miles could mean it has something to do with the repair. Hopefully if they are honest, they will assess the damage and look for anything they could have done to cause it. (not enough oil, oil loss etc). It does sound like a rod type of failure at this point and although not a common failure on Subarus there is still a slight chance it did fail on it’s own.
I hope the dealer gives you the cause of failure.
good luck,
Mike
I have A 2006 B9 Tribeca with 104,000.00. At the 100,000 mile service my mechanic found a “clean” spark plug, low coolant and diagnosed a bad head gasket. They didn’t do the whole 100,000 mile service as part of it was easier to do with the engine disassembled. It was all fixed, but now I am still smelling that sweet syrupy smell again. Heater is not working correctly and car is overheating again. Cooland was almost empty. Oh my! This is so discouraging after all the trust I have had in my Subaru. I have had all scheduled maintenance and oil changes done. Very expensive with gas prices and bad economy. Have you heard of other Tribecas with this problem?
Hi Shelly,
I’m sorry to hear of your Tribeca problem. We rarely if ever deal with failing Tribeca head gaskets. Hopefully whoever did them last used genuine Subaru head gaskets on that particular model and did them with attention to detail. I also hoped they closely inspected the cylinder heads for any imperfections that would necessitate machining.
The heater isn’t working because there is no coolant circulating through it. Once the head gasket issue is resolved it will work again.
Good luck, Mike
Hi Mike,
I’m going to go look at a 1998 Legacy Outback 2.5 with 123,000 miles. If i check the carfax and see that the HG has been replaced would you recommend purchasing it?
It would certainly be one I would consider strongly over one that has never had the head gaskets done. It really depends on who did the head gasket work and what kind of quality gasket they used in the process. I would also suggest having the vehicle thoroughly inspected by a professional before making the purchase.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru Expert in Seattle
I own a 2003 Subabru Outback limited. Great car but at 65,000 miles and never having had the head gaskets replaced, should I worry that that car is a time bomb? How likely is this and if so is there anything I can do to keep it from happening sooner?
Thanks,
Andy
Hi Mike,
I recently purchased an 06 Tribeca from a non-subaru dealership. We have only been in possession of the car for 5 days. When the car sits overnight, and then I start it in the morning, there is a cloud of white smoke that comes out of the exhaust and quickly blows away. I haven’t seen any issues with overheating at all. This only happens when the car has been sitting for a while.
Is that an early sign of a leaking head gasket? Please advise.
Hi Andy,
Sounds like you have a very nice Subaru with only 65k on the odometer. Odds are in your favor that you’ll see many more miles before the head gaskets become an issue. Although I’ve seen some of the low mileage Oubacks have head gasket failure it’s been very rare. I would suggest staying on top of the maintenance, using genuine Subaru coolant (change every 30k) and use the Subaru Coolant conditioner every time it is changed.
Other than that… it may someday need head gaskets so it doesn’t hurt to set some money aside for the repair. It’s not usually a time bomb (unless a person just ignores the obvious signs of coolant leakage, coolant smell etc).
Take care of it and even if some day they need replacement, it should still easly go 200,000 miles or more with proper care and maintenance.
Happy motoring,
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru Expert
Seattle, WA
Hi Chris,
Contratulations on the purchase of your Tribeca. Your concern with the smoke out the tailpipe is a valid one. It may be normal condensation evaporating out of the exhaust when it heats up, It may be oil smoke, or coolant evaporating.
You will need to smell the exhaust when it first starts. If the only thing you smell is fuel and exhaust smell then it’s probably fine. If it’s coolant it well produce kind of a sickly sweet smell. Oil has a burned oil type smell.
I would also check your coolant level under the hood. If it’s level stays consistent it’s probably ok. Thus far we’ve seen very few Tribecas with any engine mechanical issues whatsoever. The 6 cylinders have had dramatically less instances of head gasket failure than the 4 cylinder 2.5 engines.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru Expert
Shoreline, WA
Hey Mike,
This site is very informative, Thanks very much for your time and effort.
I’ve recently purchased an 02 Legacy GT (4 cylinder) with 121K, all three of the factory recall/campaigns were completed. (Engine Cooling System Conditioner, Rear Suspension Sub-frame Corrosion, and Automatic Transmission Parking Rod).
The car has run very well for the first 4k miles I’ve given it, this was summer time driving in the heat. Just the other day though amidst the heatwave on a 100 degree day, my girlfriend told me the “At Oil Temp” light popped on, and the car took two tries to start.
After some research I’ve found that this could be anything from just the heat, to an early HG problem symptom. I started the car up again the other day, after letting it cool, and it started fine, and i only saw the light when engaging the battery but not the engine. After flicking the key, it started fine, and sounded the same as it always has.
Do you recommend that I take some preventative measures? Hang tight to see if this type of incident reoccurs? Sell the car? [;) i hope not].
Thanks! Aaron
HI Aaron,
Congratulations on your purchase of the Legacy GT. That’s a great car and with that mileage, you should have many good years ahead of you. It’s glad to see that the Subaru dealer performed all the needed recalls.
As far as your symptom of the hard start and AT Oil Temp light, I would have some diagnostics performed on the transmission control module.
The AT Oil Temp light is similar to the check engine light for the engine computer. If it notices a fault that can have an affect on the transmission system, it sets off the light to alert you of the possible problem.
A scan tool can then be hooked up to see what fault code has been generated. Then you’ll know more. Even if the light is no longer on and the car runs fine, the code will still be registered in the transmission computer’s memory.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert
hi mike,
i recently bought a used 2003 subaru forester with 173000 km on it. and few days ago i notice some oil leaks on my drive way. it definitly leaking from the under the driverside engine part, right above the steering rack intersection. i don’t see any coolant or green stuff leaking, all i find is 4 to 5 oil drops night. its not the power steering fluid coz its level stayed same.
so mike could it be a HG leak or something else. Please help me….thank you
Hi Tom,
From the area you are describing, it does sound like the leak is from the same area that we see the head gaskets leak.
The drivers side head gasket is the one that usually fails first. If you are only seeing oil and not coolant and have not needed to add coolant it may not be in need of immediate repair. I would consult with a shop that has a hoist so you can get a better look at things to be sure. Eventually you may see coolant coming from that same area of the head gasket. You can either do them now as more preventive work or later once coolant begins to leak. Just keep a close eye on the oil and coolant level and make sure to re-check the leak area from time to time.
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert in Seattle
Hi Mike,
Thank you so much for the prompt reply.
Currently i am looking for someone to fix this problem on much cheaper price coz the dealer over charges u alot. And i don’t trust them much.
So is it ok to drive the vehicle? as i saw some oil drips on the exhaust pipe and i am being scared of catching fire.
With best regards
Tom
And Mike,
Is there anything i can add in the oil or coolant to stop the leak for a timebeing?
Thank you
Tom
If the car has never had the Subaru Coolant Conditioner you may try adding a bottle of it. In a few cases I’ve seen it help. (it’s basically a stop-leak). Nothing to stop the oil though.
Mike
There is always a chance that oil dripping onto the exhaust could ignite but in my years around Subarus I have yet to see it and I’ve seen some pretty bad leaks.
The best option is just to perform the repair as soon as it’s financally possible to minimize risk.
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru Expert
Thanks alot …. Mike
Getting ready to do it myself starting next week.
Hopes everything goes fine.
Tom
Hi Tom, Sorry to hear of your Forester woes.
It is possible to bend one valve if it was open and the engine was rolled over and stopped immediately after hitting that valve. If the engine was cranked over with the timing belt off, you’d have more than just one bent.
Valves certainly can leak to varying degrees. A leakdown test (performed prior to the disassembly) can be a valuable tool in determining the leakage. Also, make sure they check the pistons. They have been known to break the ring lands and create idle issues as well as oil consumption.
Good luck,
Mike
Mike, My wife has a 2004 Outback Wagon with 71K miles that now needs head gaskets. Dealer told me that they should be replaced in 2 months or less and no long trips. After following your step-by-step, I called SOA and provided the rep with all the info. She told me she would call the dealer where I bought car new and discuss with them to see if they can provide any help. I told her that we’ve owned 7 Subby’s since 1984 and all service was done at dealer. Supposed to hear from the SOA rep (Barbara) in a few days.
Thanks to you I did not go into this blind.
Dick,
I hope Subaru does something for you in the end. I’m glad to hear they are at least open to discussing it.
Take Care,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Hi! I purchased my Subaru Forester S with 145,000 miles 2 years ago. Since that time I have had to replace the right wheel bearing, the struts, the radiator, and now the head gasket went out (apparently for the 2nd time). It also needs the 02 sensor and knock sensors replaced. All together the repairs are going to cost $2600, and I’m wondering if it’s worth putting that much money into a car with (now) 190,000 miles on it? What do you think?
Thanks!
Erin
Hi Erin,
Considering the price of new Subarus, if that’s all that is wrong with the car and $2600 will take care of it I would tend to want to fix it. (assuming you like the car and it fits your needs). The exception would be something like the car burns lots of oil or has other immediate issues beyond the head gaskets.
Take Care,
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru Expert
Hi Mike,
I was searching the internet with regard to Subaru head gasket problems and stumbled upon your site. I have a 2004 Outback with 67,000 miles and was told by the dealer’s service dept. that I had 2 leaking gaskets which needed repair for $1800. I had a 6yr/60,000 warranty that had expired due to the years not miles. I took your advice and contacted Subaru to advise them that I have been a loyal customer for 16 years, have had all service done at the same dealer and that my extended warranty had expired. I asked if there was anything they could do to help me out.
They opened a case, agreed to contact the dealer and have a field rep get involved and get back to me in 24hrs. Within 36 hours, I got a call from the dealer telling me they had been in touch with Subaru and they were going to help me out since I was a loyal customer and they agreed to do the job for free. They also suggested replacing the timing belt for $90 since it would save me money on the labor at a later date if it needed to be done separately.
So, thank you for the excellent advice regarding how to approach Subaru — it worked! As we speak, I have a loaner car and my Outback is being repaired at the dealer.
Wow, that is GREAT! Well done.
It is always nice to hear when someone steps and just does what is best for the customer. I wish more stories ended like this one.
Take care,
Mike
Mike: I have a 2004 subaru legacy wagon with 191,000 kilometers. It has been perfectly maintained by me through my dealership. Just before it went off warranty at 100,000 kilometers they replaced the head gaskets under warranty. Now several years later they advised me the head gaskets are leaking. The service rep says he has never heard of this repair being required twice but they are only offering me a 15% discount on the repair. Is this normal that head gaskets go every 100,000 kilometers on Subarus. This is my second Subaru and I had a similar problem at 100,000 kilometers with the first but traded it at about 150,000 kilometers. It seems all the comments relate to head gaskets.
What do I do?
Hi Mike,
I have read through all your posts and the information is great! I look forward to your advice about my Subaru.
I have a 2005 Subaru Forester with just over 90,000 miles. I bought the car “new” with 5000 miles. “New” meaning never taxed or tagged, supposedly it was the manager’s car and I guess it was the test drive car. Not sure if the money I saved when I bought it is coming back to bite me now.
I relocated about a year ago, and I recently started noticing weird things with the car. I took it to my new local dealership. The car is shaking when making tight turns, especially pulling in and backing out of parking spaces. The technician concluded that the valve body in the transmission has an internal failure causing incorrect transmission performance. Estimate cost is $1300.
The technician also came back and said that both head gaskets are leaking and estimated cost for repair is $1355 including drive belts (ac and alternator). The service manager said the head gaskets are leaking coolant externally. I am a little skeptical because I have not noticed any syrupy smell, over heating or low coolant levels.
I have already called Subaru of America and they have agreed to pay for half of the head gasket repair but nothing for the valve body. The dealership also said they would charge warranty rate for the HG so I would end up paying about $440 for HGs and belts in the end.
Sorry for the long post but here are my questions for you:
1. Do I go ahead and have the dealership replace the HGs and belts for $440 or do I get a second opinion since I never noticed any problems? I do not know enough about engines to look myself. Also, does the water pump need to be replaced too, as I have read in other posts?
2. Do you have experience with the valve body in the transmission problem? I spoke with my service manager at my old dealership where I bought the car, and he said to take the car to an empty lot and do figure-8′s because sometimes that will fix the valves that are stuck. And, if that doesn’t work, change the transmission fluid and do figure-8s.
I am also wondering if the dealership can charge warranty rates for the HGs, is it too much to ask for warranty rate on the valve body?
I love my Subaru, and I want it to last (without nickel-and-diming me). Oh yeah, the struts were replaced at about 60K and completely covered by Subaru even though the warranty expired.
It can’t be a lemon,
L
Hello Lindsay,
I think I would tend to have the dealership replace the head gaskets on the Forester. It isn’t a bad idea for you to have them point out to you what and where the leak is if possible. I would just let them know that you are just curious and would like to have a better understanding of what a head gasket actually is and how they leak. While it is apart you definately want to request a new timing belt. The water pump is an option that is a good idea to replace as a preventitive maintenance item while everything is apart. It’s just much easier to get to when the engine is apart.
The transmission issue is not one we’ve run across yet nor heard of as a common issue. Sometimes things just happen.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert in Seattle
206-417-0880
Hi John,
I’m sorry to hear you are having a repeat failure on your Subaru Legacy. We have seen a some of the head gaskets that have been replaced in the past fail again. Although the Subaru offering in head gaskets has improved it can still have a repeat failure. We have used a head gasket called the “Six Star” head gasket and from our experience, it seems to be having fewer repeat failures than the Subaru gasket.
I do believe that if you like your Subaru and it is still in good condition that it is worth fixing. You may inquire if they would install Six Star gaskets for you during the process.
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru in Seattle
206-417-0880
425-315-9999
Mike: Subaru and my dealership have worked out what I consider to be a fair resolution. Subaru are paying for the parts in the head gasket repair and the dealership is providing the labour at 15% off. I will get it repaired and keep on driving.
Thanks for your website
John
Hi John,
I’m always glad to hear when Subaru and or a dealer gets involved with any kind of help or discount.
Good job,
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru Expert in Seattle
I have a 2006 Subaru Tribeca with almost 88k miles on it. I have it serviced regularly and this summer it nearly overheated a few times and both times the coolant was very low even though I had gotten it services about a month before the problem. I had the mechanic check for a coolant leak but he didn’t find one. This week, the check engine light came on and I started having smoke that smelled like burning coolant and took it to the dealer here in San Antonio (we only have one – I usually don’t go there for service). They said the head gasket is failing and I need to replace it but they quoted $4500 which seems much higher than what I’m seeing quoted here. Is it more on a Tribeca? They did say this included all new gaskets, replacing the timing chain and tensioners (sp?) and I believe he said new spark plugs (I admit I was in shock form the high quote so I may not have the spark plug part correct). Is this a reasonable quote considering the work they quoted?
I need to give them an answer Monday on what I want to do so I’m hoping you can give me some guidance.
Grace
Hi Grace,
I’m sorry to hear of your Tribeca problems. Unfortunately it is quite a bit more to replace head gaskets on a Tribeca. The engine is a 6 cylinder which just has more to disassemble than a 4 cyl. The price of $4500 sounds in the ballpark for most dealerships. I would also suggest they install a new water pump when it is disassembeled since it costs much less to do when it’s apart.
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Experts
Hi Mike-
I have a 2002 Forester with almost 130,000 miles and found out recently that it has the dreaded head gasket problem. Since I can’t afford to have it fixed (it’s either this or my overdue property taxes), I keep an eye on the coolant and fill it when necessary. Unfortunately, the time between fills is shrinking. This is my second Subaru and I bought it new and it has always been serviced properly. I have two questions. How long do you think I can get away with only filling the coolant? My luck usually stinks, but I’ll ask anyway: do you think there is any way that Subaru would help fix my car?
Dear Mike,
I recently bought a 2001 Subaru Outback for $6700. Car had only one owner prior to my purchase at 97,000miles I have receipts from this previous owner. I bought it because I have heard of the subaru name from several friends and since I am required to drive in snow conditions it seemed the way to go. Car engine starts up every time and drives strong, though lately at 105,000 miles, I have noticed green coolant leaking from engine and at the same time white smoke. The engine still is driving without problems and has not had any signs of overheating. I took it into a independant auto shop and was told that it is the head gaskets. He told me it would be $1500.00 to fix. He told me he would put a bandaid on the car now if I absolutely needed to drive it. He told me to stay local only. This was because he couldn”t work on it for about 2 more weeks. This auto shop has come recommended to me. I opted to leave to car there and find alternate transportation until repair is done. Start of repair is to be done this Monday. Is there any thing I should mention regarding type of gasket(six-star), warping, bearings? He did tell me repairs included water pump, timing belt, wires, thermostat and head gasket. I don’t want to sink alot of money into a car if it is not worth it!
Dear Mike,
Is it really necessary to use genuine Subaru coolant and conditioner?
Hi Resa,
It is something Subaru suggests on all of their vehicles every time the coolant is changed. It’s not necessary if your car has the Six Star head gaskets but otherwise I’d use it. (of course if you have a 1995 or earlier Subaru you may not have any benefit from it)
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru in Seattle
Hi Theresa,
Looks like I may have seen this post later than when the repair was being done but I would certainly advise using Six Star gaskets if possible and if not my second choice is the Genuine Subaru gasket. $1500 seems like a great price to me if it’s done properly. Also it may make sense to have any other seals and gaskets that are easy to get to when the engine is out done at the same time. (not to mention a timing belt and possibly a valve adjustment that is due at 105k anyway)
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert
Hi Peg,
Just keep adding coolant every morning when the car is cold to stay ahead of things. If the car hasn’t had Subaru coolant conditioner, do put some it. This sometimes will help slow the leak. As far as Subaru participation… I haven’t heard of it happening on a car of that age with that many miles but it never hurts to call and ask them.
Good luck and remember if it goes too long and overheats the price of the repair just about doubles.
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru Expert
Seattle, WA
Hello, Mike -
Clearly, you are the expert.
I am considering purchase of a used Subaru Impreza Outback SE, to replace my 1992 SAAB 900, which was whacked recently. Two options:
(1) a 2005 car, 60k miles, manual 5 sp….brakes replaced last yr (not sure – disks, pads?), but otherwise no serious repairs or improvements (private seller)
(2) a 2006 car, 120k miles, auto trans…dealer replaces HG, brakes, etc & warranties for 30 days.
I really prefer manual trans, but car #1 sounds a bit noisy in the back, as if the rear gears are “busy.”
.
an advice is much appreciated ! Thanks !
I’d go for car #1 and have it checked before the purchase. Your loud sound from the rear is probably a rear wheel bearing beginning to fail.
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert
I am the second owner of a 2000 Subaru Outback. From 51k miles (at purchase) until a year or so ago, it was problem free. I now have about 111,000 miles on it and just noticed the coolant leak. I am told that it needs a head gasket at about $2600. I have recently (in the last two years)done the brakes, timing belt, battery, new tires, oil change, new windshield, fluids flushed and a couple of other things. I have never owned a Subaru before, but am wondering if it is financially worth it to hold on to this one or maybe to buy another one that is a 2005 or 2006. I cannot afford the gasket, much less many more costly repairs. Do you suggest any particular years for Outbacks? Thanks so much.
I think it’s financially more affordable to repair the Subaru headgaskets than to replace the whole car. $2600 is not even a down payment these days not to mention you’d be paying years of payments after that if you upgrade now. If the rest of your Outback is in good condition I think it’s well worth the repair. Even if you decide to sell it a month later, it’s worth more than it is now if you fix it.
Good luck in your decision,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert
Seattle, WA
Hi, Mike.
Your advice site is great. I’m looking to buy a used wagon and was planning to look at Subarus. But Consumer Reports didn’t give the 2000-2006 models in price range a good rating on engines because of the head gasket problem. Given the problems, would you even recommend buying a used Subaru? Should I be looking at Toyota wagons instead? If I can scrape together the money, have the head gasket problems been fixed in the 2008 and newer models?
Thank you!
Hi Julie,
Depending on if AWD is important to you or not Toyota wagons have a pretty good track record. I still think Subarus have a very good track record other than the fact that sometime during the car’s life it will need to have it’s headgaskets replaced. The AWD is second to none and for that alone it may be worth choosing a Subaru. Basically, the newer the Subaru, the fewer head gasket problems we see. Also if you choose to get a Subaru that is the 6 cylinder equipped model we rarely see any head gasket issues with these until well over 200000 miles.
Make sure whatever you purchase, do your research, do your carfax, and have a qualified shop check it over thoroughly before purchasing it.
Take care
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru Expert at Smart Service in Seattle
We have a 2000 Subaru Legacy wagon. At 52K mi. the dealership added the coolant conditioner per Subaru (WWP99). At 62K (12/06) our head gaskets were said to be leaking. We were not aware or made aware that Subaru had possibly issued a voluntary recall on the head gaskets, extending the warranty to 8yrs or 100K mi. The dealer said the leak was light and probably slow and that we could probably get by with watchful waiting. Subsequently, head gasket leaks were noted at most followup repairs, with no recommendation to repair until 12/10 at 103K. It was the first time the dealer wrote needs to have the cylinder head gaskets resealed and a new timing belt. We had the work done and we paid the dealer, still unaware of the voluntary recall. In hindsight, should the dealer have made the repairs under warranty sooner? What is the likelihood that the dealer or Subaru would reimburse us for the work ALREADY completed?
Hi Susan,
My first advice is to compile your records/receipts that have any notations about the head gasket condition on them. Keep in mind that Subaru was only willing to pay for external coolant leakage so if it was an oil leak they were mentioning Subaru would not have covered it. After you compile and organize a timeline of the head gasket related receipts from the dealer, call 1-800-SUBARU3 with the information. If a Subaru dealer is abusing the system then Subaru customer service will probably get involved and help you. If they have merely been telling you about an oil leak from the head gasket but no coolant then it may just be a bad coincidence.
Please let us know how it works out,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Experts
AAA Top Shop
Mike,
Thank you for manning this web site and offering your experienced input. I have a 2006 2.5i Outback Wagon with 75K miles. A couple of months ago, we noticed small drops of oil leaking from the lower driver’s side of the engine onto our garage floor. Took it to our local dealer, and they said it was a head gasket repair…$1900 total to replace both head gaskets. I called SOA and complained. They have offered to reimburse $750 after we have the repair done. I guess that’s better than nothing, but it still leaves us with an $1156 balance…a rather substantial amount of money we never expected to have to pay so soon in the game with a Subaru (this is our first Subaru, and we had never heard about the head gasket issue). I’m trying to determine wheter to accept the $750 offer or to contest it further. It seems I read somewhere that Subaru had cleared up the issue in 2006 and newer vehicles…is that correct? If so, then I shouldn’t even be experiencing the problem. If not, it just seems a bit strange to me that this head gasket failure has been going on for many years, yet Subaru has done nothing to remedy the situation. Mike, in your experience, would you suggest that I try to protest this further with SOA, or do you think I’ve hit the max assistance I should expect from them? Any chance the dealer might discount their price a bit as well? Also, I’m concerned about the fact that it sounds like they have to literally lift the engine out of the car to get to those gaskets. Is that correct? What kind of impact will that have on the original fit and drive of the vehicle (any vibration issues, etc.) once the engine is placed back in position? Is there a particular type of Subaru dealer or independent Subaru service center that would be better to do the work than others (we currently go to Subaru of Gwinnett here in Atlanta for all of our service)? Lastly, you have suggested timing belt replacements, etc. during such a repair. What other repairs would you suggest we do at the same time on this specific 2006 Outback to save future expenditures. Thanks in advance for any advice you can offer.
Hi Ken,
From what I’ve seen, although not completely leakproof, the 2006 and newer vehicles seem to be leaking less often than their predesessors. If Subaru is offering $750 to help out it may be best to take the offer. Of course, if you are a good negotiator you may be able to get more so I’ll leave that part up to you.Depending on your relationship with the dealer, you may get them to throw in some assistance also beyond what Subaru corporate is offering. If the engine repair is done properly, there should be no concern about removing the engine. While it is apart you may as well spend the money for the timing belt (since it’s due at 105k anyway).
Good luck and let me know how it turns out.
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Repair
Seattle
Thank you Mike for your rapid and helpful response! My records say the head gaskets were leaking oil (or a few times early on simply “head gaskets are leaking” — in the future I will ask for more clarification) with no mention of leaking coolant. I believe I overlooked the warranty point about external COOLANT leaks only. Your blog is much appreciated. At some time I may just travel the 60+ miles to visit your Mulkiteo shop! Susan
Nice blog on this specific issue. Just wanted to chime in with my experience… my first Subaru was a 2000 Legacy L with the 2.5L NA engine. That was subject to the known issue and extended powertrain warranty that you mentioned where Subaru fixed the specific issue beyond the standard powertrain warranty.
I, too, thought that this issue had been cleared up with newer models and purchased a 2006 2.5i Legacy brand new from the dealer. Now, at 63K miles and out of warranty, it’s leaking oil from the engine head gaskets. Ugh. I’ll see what I can get Subaru to do.
Thanks for the info. Please keep us updated if Subaru gets involved in helping.
Mike
I am currently trying to figure out my next course of action regarding my 2003 Forester. I had the head gaskets replaced about 1 1/2 years ago at 85,000 miles. Subaru had even offered to pay part of the repair cost. So at that time I had the timing belt and water pump replaced as well. I had just brought the car in to a different dealer for the recent lower control arm recall and was told that oil was leaking from the head gaskets again and it would cost $2300 to repair. I have put on about 16,000 miles since the first repair. I thought that this repair would last me at least three years minimum. Subaru has only offered a small amount this time ($250) toward the repair or a $500 loyalty rebate on a new vehicle. I still can’t believe that the original repair failed so soon.
Mike, You really know your stuff. I took a bunch of time and read through many of your comments, you’re advice is greatly valued.
I am a possible first time Subaru buyer. I have admired them for many years but didn’t really look into them until now because of the larger size of the Legacy now.
I am looking at a pre-owned(but not certified) 2011 Legacy with less than 25k on the odometer(4 cyl). It appears to be in great condition, carfax is clean and test drive went well except for some minor braking noise(which could just be pads).
My 1st question is why would a dealer chooose not to certify that vehicle from the get go? I looked at other cars on their website and they have the same year (not necessarily in that exact model) and with both more and less mileage. It does have a clean carfax, but I am suspicious because of the lack of certification. I explained to them that this was a deal breaker so they are running it up the ladder.
This leads me question #2,do you know of any issues with 2010 or 2011 Legacy 4cyl models???
Question #3 If there are issues which Extended Warranty type would you suggest obtaining to cover the issues you may have mentioned in question #2?
Thank you very much for your advice in advance.
Dave
I have a 2005 outback wagon 4cyl, 127000, My mechanic added some tracer dye to see if the head gasket is leaking. We are the original owners. 3 months ago we had the timing belt and pump changed. What is the average price for replacing the HG and should anything else be changed? We also have a 2012 outback and a 95 impreza. The Impreza has 130000 miles. Should we expect problems with the Impreza?
Thanks
Michael
Hi Michael.
Depending on how much a shop includes in the job, the range will be from $1500-2500. When you do the head gaskets, the higher end prices will included head gaskets, all other engine seals and gaskets including the rear main seal, seperator plate and oring, timing belt, valve adjustment, water pipe orings and possibly water pump and timing belt tensioner pulleys, coolant, oil change, thermostat.
I don’t expect the problems on the 95 Impreza. It has the 2.2 engine that was the most reliable Subaru has made to date and rarely do I see any head gasket problems with that model.
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert in Seattle
Hi John,
Sorry to hear that the head gaskets may be leaking again. Did you look at them yourself? We’ve found that since the problem has become widely known by the public that they are likely to assume they need head gaskets and just do them upon the advice of the repair facility. The only problem is that we see a number of shops taking advantage of the public fear of leaking head gaskets and present them more agressively than they car actually needs. We’ve given a second opinion to more than a hand full of clients that have been told by the dealer that they need their head gaskets done only to see that there was barely any oil residue around the gasket and it may be years if ever that replacement becomes necessary. Not to say this is the case with your car but beware of those saying you need gaskets. Ask how bad the leak is, which side is it coming from, is it coolant or oil etc. If they stumble on any of their answers don’t be surprised. Best is to have them show you the severity of the leak and then help you decide how soon you need to fix it.
So… before seeing what action you need to take, you need to find out if there’s really a problem. I’d suggest taking it back to the dealer that did the work. Request an appointment where they will bring the car in and inspect the underside with you due to a claim another shop made about a leak. If it is leaking again, then you put them on the spot and ask how they’ll help you solve this repeat failure.
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru Repair by Smart Service
Hi Dave and thanks for your questions.
I can’t even venture to guess why a dealer would choose to certify some vehilces and not others. The vehicle you’re looking at should still have bumper to bumper and power train warranty in effect so maybe they feel it isn’t needed.
No known issues with the 2010-2011 Outbacks that we’ve seen thus far. I would still pay to have a mechanical inspection done by a 3rd party if possible.
The best extended warranty is called Subaru Added Security. It is affiliated with Subaru and tends to have the best and most specific coverage. The caviat is that you have to have the work performed at a Subaru dealer.
Have fun in you new Subaru!
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independednt Subaru Repair
Seattle Wa
WOW! I am glad I googled this! The information was very helpful. I just got the word that my 2004 Forrester with only 93,000 needs this repair. I am so upset! $2,200 is the quote I have. My dealer is not convenient to my house/work so I have always used a local mechanic who has been wonderful with me. Next car will not be a Subaru.. and i am only about two months from a new car!
I was just in an accident with my 08 Subaru Legacy 2.5i sedan. The vehicle is totaled and I’m looking to get another Subaru. I had both HG failing on my 08 vehicle, and hadn’t fixed them yet when the accident happened. My question is whether you’ve heard of anyone else having issues with HG on an 08? (I had 100K miles). I’m looking at an 08 or 09 Legacy leaning towards the 09 because of the advancements in the Vehicle Dynamics Control. What is the differences in a 2.5i and GT engine? Thank you
Hi Heather,
I’m sorry to hear of the accident. I’m glad the car kept you safe. I haven’t seen the head gasket leak on the 08′s yet but I also haven’t seen an 08 in our shop yet with 100k miles on it either.
As far as the 09 engines, The 2.5i is the 4 cylinder normally aspirated engine with 170hp and rated at 20/26mpg.
The 2.5 GT Engine is a turbocharged version of the above that has 243hp and 18/25mpg.
The GT is a fun car but maintenance costs are a little higher espescially considering oil changes should be done with synthetic oil to best protect the turbo. I must add that I rarely see a 2.5 turbo engine with head gasket issues.
Good luck in your decision,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
206-417-0880
Independent Subaru in Seattle
Hi Angela,
Sorry to hear your Forester is in line for head gaskets along with other Subarus. I understand your frustration and am sorry to hear you’re leaving the Subaru brand. Good luck on whatever your next vehicle is.
Cheers,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Repair
Seattle, WA
Mike,
You rock with your advice! I just found out today that my 2007 Legacy’s head gaskets are leaking on both sides and need to be replaced. I brought it in because I was smelling burn oil on occasion. The advisor said it doesn’t need to be done immediately – It’s not burning oil or any collant leaks yet,etc – just the leak on the outside onto the engine creating the smell.The dealer is willing to fix for $1500 – including replacing the timing belt (recommended at 105k). The bottom line is I need to make it 3 months before I have the cash. Do you think I’ll make it if I check the oil level and collant etc everytime I fill up? Should I trade it in??? Thanks!
Hi, Mike. I’m driving a 2004 Impreza Outback Sport Auto with 130,000 miles. Been a great car. At my last service, they mentioned that my head gaskets were beginning to leak oil, but didn’t recommend a repair at this point. They said to just keep an eye on the oil level.
Lately, I’m starting to smell burning oil at stoplights, and I figure it’s from the leaking head gaskets. I called the dealer and they said it would be about $1,800 to replace them both if I wanted to do it, but they didn’t act as though it was necessarily a good idea. (Maybe they just want me to buy a new car?) The price seems to be in line with what other owners are paying.
I infer from your other answers that it is worthwhile to do this repair as long as the vehicle has been well maintained and is in good shape, which is the case here. My question, then, is whether or not there is any good reason to rush ahead and do the repair now, or wait until it gets worse. If I waited, I would make a point of monitoring my oil level and my coolant level (although I haven’t smelled any “sweet” coolant fumes yet) regularly, but I don’t want to run the risk of allowing the problem to worsen and end up costing me even more to fix.
Is there a downside to waiting, as long as I monitor the fluid levels?
Hello Mike,
Awesome blog my friend! I have a 2007 Legacy 2.5L with 85k miles on it. I love the car but I’m mad this known issue is still an issue!!! I need to have both HG replaced. They quoted me $1,500 (which includes the timing belt while they are in there)which from what I have read on your blog is a good price. The catch is I won’t have the cash to fix for a few months. My service advisor told me it doesn’t have to be done right away, I should keep an eye on it and check my oil level – which has been good so far – and look for oil on the ground – none as of yet.
Question #1 – I don’t want to damage the car further as I want to keep it as long as I can. Do you think I can reasonably make it for another 90 days and 3k miles ???
Question #2 – I’ve negotiated with SOA in the past to go 50/50 on a transmission replacement on a 1999 Forester with 68K miles (out of warranty by 8k) on it. I want to give negotiation a shot with this HG issue. In your experience what are my chances of getting a 50/50 deal again???
All the best,
Joe
Thanks for your suggestions you posted on Feb. 22 from my post on Feb.19. I took the car back to the dealer that did the original work and they verified the external oil leak located at the driver side head gasket. The service manager contacted the Subaru rep and informed me that I would only need to pay for the parts (approx. $225) and Subaru would pick up the labor charges for the repair. The leak is not bad at this point but I am considering having the repair done because I really don’t have an idea of how fast this leak may become worse.
Currently negotiating with Subaru Customer Care to have head gaskets replaced on my 2008 Outback with 68K miles. Quoted $1900 by dealer for th job. What is approx. parts vs. labor for this job?
Hi Joe,
From your description of the leak, most likely you’ll be fine monitoring the oil level until replacement of the head gaskets can be performed.
Good luck
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru in Seattle
Hi JD,
I like your assessment of your situation. To be sure it’s the head gaskets making the smell I advise you check to see where the oil is coming from. It’s possible that something else has leaked thus causing the smell (oil filter seal etc). It still may be the gaskets and if that is the case you’ll need to closely monitor your fluid levels and visually check the head gasket leak from time to time. It may be an eventuall oil smell annoyance that causes you to replace the gaskets long before they ever would cause mechanical harm.
Take care of that Subaru!
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Care since 1999
Hi Joe,
I think you’ll probably be ok to save up for the head gasket repair on your Legacy while you closely monitor the oil and coolant levels. It’s not something that I’ve seen just suddenly blow out. Usually they just get worse and worse over a time span.
Sounds like a great price you’re getting quoted on the head gaskets from a dealer nonetheless!
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru care since 1999
John,
Great news! I’m glad you took the time to have the look at it.
I think that you need to find out how long the dealer offer is open for. If they will fix it 6 months from now, just let it go and monitor until then. It probably won’t get worse in that short period of time.
Nice job,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
206-417-0880
It’s probably about a 65/35% split Labor/Parts in most cases.
Mike
Subaru has agreed to pay for 50% of the head gasket job cost, and the dealer has agreed to charge the warranty labor and parts rate vs. retail labor and parts rate. Estimate that will cost me $700 out of pocket vs. the $1900 originally quoted. I’m gonna get the timing belt done at the same time for part cost only. Based on previous posts, that seems pretty good. Thanks for providing this blog, which helped a lot in the process.
Hi Mike,
Your site has been super helpful and informative. Six months ago I bought a used 2003 Impreza Outback with 53,000 miles on it from the third owner of the car. I’ve never had a Subaru before, but they seemed like they’d be great for winter driving, so I switched from Honda. I absolutely love my car, but it’s also been really expensive. Four months ago I had the catalytic converter replaced, and now my local independent Subaru shop is saying it’ll be another 2800 to replace the head gaskets that are leaking oil onto the crossmember. I took your advice and called the dealer and they said they would do it for $1450 max, which is better but still a lot of money. Do you think I even have a chance at getting a lower price or for Subaru to pick up the tab? Or is the car even worth keeping with so many problems in so short a time?
Hi Kelsey,
I think your 2003 Impreza Outback will be probably be a great car many years to come once you have the head gaskets done. The option the dealer gave you is reasonable considering the year of the car and the fact that many people have been turned down with the same problem. I think investing in the repair is much more dollar wise than replacing the car.
Good luck
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
206-417-0880
Independent Subaru
Seattle, Everett and Vicinity
Hi, finding oil pooling on top of engine passenger side only. Cleaned it up and came back quickly. Mechanic says HG both sides. Could it be anything else. 2007 Outback wagon 2.5l
Thanks Larry
Hi Larry,
It is hard to say if the head gasket is causing the oil on the top of the engine or not. It’s somewhat unusual to leak out the top of ghe gasket compared to how many we see that come out the bottom side. I would suggest cleaning it off, adding a oil tracer dye and checking it in a week or less to see if the oil has returned and where it is coming from. It technically could be the head gasket but just not probable. In a few rare cases I’ve seen pourous casting in the aluminum of the block or head that allowed oil or coolant to ooze through.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru in Seattle
206-417-0880
Just took our 2007 Impreza Sport to the dealer for the control arm recall and found out that both head gaskets are leaking – a $2,200 repair including timing chain (they’ll provide a free loaner car for 3 days). The car has 51k miles but was purchased in December ’06 so I’ve been off warranty for 3 months!!! Did not purchase extended warranty due to “bullet proof” reputation of Subaru vehicles.
Wish me luck when I call Subaru Customer Service tomorrow. Luckily I have all maintenance records – I hope they can help with the cost.
We were thinking this was going to be a 200k mile car for us – now we have our doubts.
Mike in NJ
Dear Mike,
I wrote earlier in December about my 2001 Subaru outback. I did get the Headgasket done also, thermostat,water pump,timing belt, hoses. At first the car needed some minor adjustments and had to take it back to the shop twice. Since then I have been driving it and have had no problems. I love this car. I had a foot of snow last 24 hours and am so glad that I kept it. The headgasket problem can be a bummer, but shop around and getting recommendations go a long way. Anyways, Thanks for listening.
Resa
Hi Theresa,
You’re welcome. I’m glad you’re back to enjoying your Subaru again!
Mike
I think you’ll do well with Subaru considering your age and mileage of Subaru. Glad you have good maintenance records also. That will help tremendously.
Good luck,
Mike
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert
Thanks Mike.
I think I’d rather have a HG problem than a porous block. But I’ll explore all options first.
Larry
Hi Mike –
What a great site. I would like to get your opinion. I have owned Toyotas and Hondas for the last 30 years and have never had any major repairs on my vehicles. I am considering buying either a new 2012 Forester or a 2012 Honda CRV (the RAV4 is too small in the back).
I like the look and feel of both cars and the mpg. The Forester has higher ground clearance than the CRV (8.7″ vs 6.7″) which is important for some of the roads I drive at times. The Forester price for similar models is about $3000 less than the CRV. The Forester model is the 2.5L 4 cyl 4 sp automatic AWD.
I have heard about the head gasket repair and am wondering if a 2012 Forester would potentially have this problem in the future – or is this more common to older Outbacks? Am i worrying about nothing?
I plan to own this car for 10 years or so (about 120K miles) and want something that will be reliable.
Molly in Oregon
Hi Molly,
I think that the potential for the 2012 to eventually need head gaskets is a possibility but not likely. If you do some research on all wheel drive systems the Subaru wins hands down. Everyone else is trying to incorporate all wheel drive but since Subaru’s system is so unique and patented, I don’t think anyone else will ever be as good. On the bright side, if it is 3000 less and the head gaskets ever do fail years from now, you’ll have more than enough to cover the repair!
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert in Washington
206-417-0880
Hello Mike:
Great site find! Have a 2004 Subaru Legacy Sedan Anniversary Edition and it has been wonderful for 116,000 miles. Unfortunately, during an oil change last week, they said the car was wet underneath – leaking oil – so they injected dye to check where the oil may be coming from. The next day after driving for about 30 miles, they indicated a head gasket leak. The mechanic said not to fix it. He said the gasket was warped from probably the engine running hot at some point, and even if the head gasket was fixed, the bottom would probably give out and it would need a new engine. He has said to keep using the car and check the oil level at least every 2 weeks. He said perhaps we would get 3-6 months out of the car, maybe longer. He said to replace it as soon as it starts to leak more and that the engine will start making a telltale pinging noise.
Do you think it is worth fixing, or does it sound like good advice?
Thank you!
Hi Carol,
It sounds like you need to get a second opinion. There’s no actualy way to tell if a head gasket is warped or engine is warped without taking apart the engine. Oil leakage from a head gasket is not because of warpage, it’s due to deterioration of the gasket itself and it’s sealing ability. I can’t imagine you’re leaking so much oil you need to check it every 2 weeks unless something has either just blown out or the car has been so poorly maintained it burns oil. It’s very possible that you can get the head gaskets done properly with a Six Star gasket and get another 100k out of the car if you like it.
Get a second opinion from a professional. Even a Subaru dealer if there’s one in the area.
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru in Seattle
Hi mike,
Im am from spokane and have been looking at the tribecas. I found one here that is a 2006 fully loaded with 44,000 miles. The dealership took it on trade and when they ran it thru their shop they discovered the headgaskets need to be replaced. They said it would cost $4,200 to fix the problem. What is the dealers actual cost to repair this? Have you found that the heads need to be machined when doing this? I just want to be sure that this car would be worth the investment after the repair is done.
Thank you for your time.
Melissa
Hi Melissa,
I really have no idea what the dealers cost would be on the repair but $4200 to repair the head gaskets on a Tribeca is a bit on the high side but not by much for all the labor that must be done. Also they may be replacing other seals and gaskets while it’s apart too which may justify the price a bit more.
I think it would be a good car once the head gaskets are done. We don’t see too many Tribecas that ever need head gaskets so I think it’s likely you’ll get a lot of miles out of it with not too many troubles.
Take care,
Mike
Hello,
I had just bought my mother’s subaru to the dealer because of the check engine light was on they told me it needs both head gaskets replaced and both cats replaced and they said the warranty was up on march 20,2012 and we went on the march 31 2012. Is there anything I can do to see it if it will be covered under warranty. The cost is 5,000.00 .And the car only has 54,000 it’s a 2004 Subaru Outback 2.5 Thanks for your help .
Hi Mike,
My 07 STI is flashing CEL with loss of power and car almost stalls at 1st gear. I suspect misfire in one of the cylinders or the common exhaust valve damage due to overheating (researched blogs). Over the phone some dealer said it would cost up to $4k to tear down+fix. STI has 66K miles and since the powertrain warranty expires at 60K, what do you think my options are?
Thanks for the help & advice
Ryan
Hi Mike,
This is good info. I have an ’07 B9 Tribeca Limited with 80,000 Miles. I just started seeing smoke out the drivers side exhaust last week, and sure enough – the coolant tank level is below the outer tank (not sure how much coolant is left, but no warning lights). Looks like i will start this quest… I did the first major service, I think around 40k miles, but I skipped the second that should have been around 66k? Outside of that, I religously changed oil and only ever used high grade oil and filters, and even 10-30 during the summers, but never retained receipts. Wish me luck.
Thanks,
Matt
Hello Karen,
I think the first thing to do is call 1-800-SUBARU with your issue. You are so close to being within warranty that they may opt to “bend the rules” for you.
Good luck,
Mike
Hello Ryan,
I suspect you’re correct in assuming it’s a missfire. Once you find out which cylinder you may want to have a leakdown and compression test done.
You may find a cracked ringland on #3 cylinder.
Don’t drive it any more until you get it figured out. If the car is un-modified and you have good records that you’ve been maintaining it to Subaru’s requirements then you may want to call 1-800-SUBARU3.
If it’s not covered, be ready to spend some $$. If the piston is damaged you’ll probably end up with installing a replacement short block along with labor and gaskets you’ll probably be in the mid $7000 range give or take depending what shop you have it done at.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru in Seattle
1-866-417-0880
Dear Mike,
Thank you for setting up this blog. It has some great information. I thought I would add my story as well. I have a 2003 Subaru Outback wagon with 72K miles on it. I used the dealer for maintenance for the first few years but have been using an independent mechanic that was located more conveniently for the past few years.
Last week, I spent about $500 on new brakes, new axle, oil & filter change and a variety of other small details and was grumbling about the need to spend more on new tire soon. Who knew that this would be least of my problems.
On Monday, my CEL came on, and the temperature gauge immediately started to climb. I instinctively put on the heat and only cold air came out. I was able to get it home, however, the ride was rough. The next morning, I drove the mile to the mechanic who did a diagnostic on the CEL code which was PO304/cylinder 4 was misfiring. He found fluid on the spark plug tip and diagnosed a possible coolant leak into cylinder 4. He suggested I take it to the dealer because it might be a head gasket issue which the mechanic said would be very costly.
I found my way to your blog (thank you, again, Mike) and I followed your steps:
1). Called 1-800-SUBARU3 and told them of the issue. He was very nice. He asked me to fax him the 30K & 60K service records to make sure they were done properly. He agreed that I did not have to have the service done at a Subaru dealer.
2). Was told to make an appointment with a Subaru dealer to confirm the headgaskets need to be replaced.
3). Got the car into my dealer who confirmed the headgaskets needed to be replaced. The cost to fix: $2650 to replace headgasket, the spark plugs, thermostat, timing belt, coolant, etc. It also includes a fuel injection cleaning for $149? If resurfacing of heads is needed, cost goes up to $3340.
4). 1-800 Subaru3 wrote me as well. Here is their offer: “I spoke to your dealer. They did confirm the headgaskets need to be replaced. They indicated that they do not have any recent service history with you, and so are not willing to make any considerations or reductions in the cost of the repair. Although we would prefer that you use an authorized Subaru dealer for all your service, the maintenance docs that you provided from your independent do seem to be well documented and in line with what our engineers recommend. Because of the good maintenance documentation and your long-time Subaru ownership, I would like to offer you a one-time goodwill gesture of $500 towards the head gasket repair. If you would like to accept that offer, please have the repair completed at the Subaru dealer. Once you have paid for the repair, you can submit a copy of the paid repair order to my attention, and I will then request the goodwill check for you. Checks are usually received from our accounting department the week after I request them, and we would mail that directly to you. Based on the length of time that your vehicle has been out of warranty coverage, and age of the vehicle, it would not be possible for us to offer more financial assistance at this time. Best Wishes.”
So, at least they offered me $500, which is better than a poke in the eye. However, I wonder about the cost of the head gasket replacment, etc. Seems high from what I have seen. Would it be better to have it done not at the dealer?
The car has lower mileage but is starting to show its age with rattlings and some body scratches. And, I also have to get the tires replaced too so it seems like good money after bad. Do you have a suggestion on whether I should fix it? I guess there is no trade-in value on the darn thing unless I get it fixed.
Thanks for your help.
Hi Debbie,
I’m glad to hear that at least they are offering something for your troubles. The price does seem a bit high compared to what I see in the local area but every dealer can be different depending on what they include.
If you discount it by $500 then it becomes more reasonable in comparison. Not knowing the knowledge of the independent shop you’re comparing it too, I would probably opt for the dealer for this repair.
It’s too bad it has to come to this but at least you should have a good car for many years to come once the repair is done.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru in Seattle
Im about to get an 04 subaru wrx, and there’s the only one thing wrong with it. The passanger head gasket is just starting to show symptoms of fault. This has just started and i’m wondering how much it is going to cost and how long i should push this repair off.
Thanks
First, let me say this website is excellent, I wish I had found it earlier while I was getting information on Subaru Foresters. I’m in process of purchasing a new 2012 Forester 2.5X Premium with the All Weather Package. The dealer of course is pushing the 100,000 warranty on us (as all dealers try to do). Seeing all of the posts on the head gasket issues of the past I am wondering if I should spring the $$$ for the extra 40K miles. We are low miles per year people, probably in the 8-10K range for the past few years, it looks like we’ll be doing even less in the years to come.
Are the issues with the head gaskets at this time a thing of the past? Are there other worries I should be aware of? All vehicles have their quirks, problems, but should I be especially aware of any Subaru known issues?
Otherwise we are impressed by the build quality, we’ve gotten some good pricing after doing a bit of haggling, comparing dealer pricing, etc.
And again, kudos on the site. Very fair, very knowledgable, very impressive.
Jack
When you see my sedona red Subaru Forester S with 201,300 miles, you assume it has only 90K on it. The interior is spotless as is the exterior, however, after much contemplation, I’m trading it in today for a Dodge Caliber. I religiously maintained my Subaru at the dealer, bought an extended warranty and after it expired, continued to keep up my maintenance with a very trustworthy mechanic. For the past 11 years my Subaru’s check engine light has been going on at least 3 times a month. No one, not even the dealer could correct it after all these years and four catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, coolant leaks, etc, etc. Now, I’ve got head gasket problems and don’t feel like having another Subaru dealer charge me $3000 to fix that and the timing chain. I’ve had enough. I’ve been nickle and dimed to death and I just can’t take it anymore. I’m going to use that money and buy a new vehicle as I shed a tear when I see them drive away with my trade in.
Hi Mark,
Depending on what the symptom of the head gasket failure is it’s hard to tell how long. If it’s just residual external oil leakage, it could be years before it develops into something serious. If the head gasket is getting exhaust into the coolant or leaking coolant externaly, it’s a repair that should be done as soon as possible to avoid further possible damage to the engine.
I hope this helps,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Repair
206-417-0880
Greetings Jack,
Time will tell if head gaskets will be a thing of the past. There will always be cars needing head gaskets from time to time but it would sure be good to see a much lower freequency than we have in the past. Subaru is always trying to improve it’s product so going with that train of thought, I have to expect the 2012′s should do much better than head gaskets of the past.
As far as the warranty goes… I’m not a big believer. The car’s have a great warranty to start with and if you took that same amount of money and invested it conservatively today, by the time the car’s warranty is up in 5 years it should be worth more than enough to handle most repairs the car may have had covered. Just my opinion.
On the other hand, if you’re a person that really likes to minimize all future risk then it may be a good way to go.
Enjoy your new Subaru!
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert
Wow, I wish everyone put as much effort into caring for their Subaru as you have. I completely sympathize with your decision. It’s really a bummer when you keep such great care of a car like your Forester and it still bleeds you to death.
I hope the Caliber prooves to be good car for you.
Take care
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
206-417-0880
I brought a 2005 subaru last spring from used car dealer. First car was an impreza with a rebuilt motor. Died within a week as mechanic forgot to put in wrist pin on one of the pistons. Dealer rebuilt second motor that lasted about 2 1/2 months. Engine had a pin hole in block water leak. Dealer then put me in 2005 outback with 100000 miles. Put 10000 miles on car. Had trouble this spring with car overheating. Took it to dealer twice second time replaced thermistat. Car now has blown motor Top of piston broke off and destroyed head. Dealer says whole thing my fault and paying for a rebuilt motor. Not feeling to good about having them rebuild another motor. Questions is do u think engine failure like this could have been casued by bad head gasket?
Hi Preston,
I think it’s possible this overheating could have been head gasket related but there are many other things that could have equally contributed to the multiple failures of the engine.
Good luck
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru Repair.
I own a 2000 subaru outback sedan. I bought it used from a used car dealership knowing it had a gasket issue, I had three thousand taken off the asking price. I did my reasearch and noticed that because it was under 100k mileage it was still covered by subaru. So I called subaru of america and explained my situation and made it clear I understood the situation. They said next step would be to have it diagnosed by a dealer. I delt with brandon palmer at carr subaru in beaverton oregon. I can’t say enough about how helpful he was. Subaru covered half of the repairs! I really found this site helpfull as well as I used the techniques disscussed above. It is definately worth trying as subaru of america was a pleasure to work with. I got two gaskets replaced, timing belt, water pump, tensioner, and valve seals done for a total of 1240 dollars! Good deal.
Adam, WOW, what an amazing Subaru story!
Very smart on negotiating your purchase price and to top it off you were able to get Subaru to help you out.
This has to be one of the best Subaru experiences I’ve heard in quite some time. Doing your research ahead of time literally saved you thousands of dollars. Nicely done.
I hope other Subaru owners can learn from your experience.
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru in Seattle
206-417-0880
I recently purchased a used 2002 Subaru impreza rs. It has over 135,000 miles on it. Yesterday the check engine light began blinking and the engine seems to be misfiring. My coolant seems low, and a friend says the driver side of the engine seems to have something leaking, or possibly from the oil being filled and someone missing the hole. I think my friend might be being nice to me after reading these posts. When viewing the coolant it doesn’t seem to have oil present. When checking the oil level it seems high. Does it sound like this is a head gasket? I think I might be praying for something that is irreverasable, but I figured I could hear your opinion before jumping the gun.
Hi Melissa,
Well, the first part is that the check engine light is blinking because it’s detecting a missfire on one or more of the cylinder’s that’s severe enough that it could damage the catalytic converter. It is recommended that you don’t drive it until that part of the problem is resolved. As far as something leaking from the engine, that may be another issue altogether. I don’t think you should panic yet but just get it in to a reputable shop. Your WRX could be as simple as an oil leak that’s been there for years and now it just started to missfire because of an old spark plug or bad ignition coil.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru in Seattle
206-417-0880
Dear Mike,
Your site is wonderful — thank you!
I have about 67,000 miles on my 2005 Forester. It has been running fine and serviced regularly. I was traveling on Highway 5 on a hot day and a slight buzzing kind of sound started up; in rapid succession I determined it occurred when pressing on the accelerator, and the car then overheated (per gauge), with slight black smoke, and stopped running. I pulled over to the side of the freeway and it did not turn over again after that; could not be restarted. We have now been told by a Subaru dealer that it has a cracked block and needs a new engine. They did not mention any assistance from Subaru or overheating problems.
We have talked to our personal mechanic and he has suggested either rebuilding the engine for $6000+ or replacing it with a used engine that has been located from a 2005 Forester with 75,000 miles, for $4400 with a 1 year warranty. We are concerned about what to do next — we were not aware of any recommendation from Subaru about their coolant additive, or of these problems, but we can’t think of any preventable cause for this because the fluids had all been checked before the trip, the car had been regularly serviced and all seemed fine. I am especially concerned now that I have read the posts here that we not experience this a second time, and I would greatly appreciate help from Subaru, as this was my lifetime car; I love it and have told everyone how wonderful Subarus are. I am now in great danger of being disillusioned.
Any thoughts about how to approach this would be very helpful!
Best wishes,
Diane
I bought a 2001 Suburu Outback for my daughter a week ago. It had just 78,000 miles on it. Carfax checked out – no problems. Two days after purchase the car heated up. I had it towed back to the dealer (not Suburu), and they checked it out. The coolant was showing in the resevoir, so we didn’t think it was low on coolant. It was discovered it was low. The mechanic said it was probably caused by a bubble not allowing the coolant to flow through. They corrected the problem, and the car did fine for a couple days. Then it started heating up again. The guage would go up to the red for about 30 seconds, then cool down to normal. I called the dealer and told them that I wondered if the problem is the gasket. I was told that they had the gasket replaced two days before I bought the car. I took the car in. The ran more diagnostics including a combustion test. No exhaust gases are in the coolant. Another note is that the mechanic checked the coolant resevoir with a flashlight when the car was hot, and he saw bubbles coming in to the coolant. I thought that would be a tell tale sign of a leak somewhere. The mechanic had the car all day today, and replaced the thermostat. He will keep the car overnight and check more tomorrow. He thinks the problem is solved. Everybody at the dealer tells me that it sure sounds like a thermostat to them. What should I be asking them? Thank you for your site.
Gene
Hi Gene,
It sure sounds like a head gasket. A thermostat will usually cause the car to overheat then keep overheating instead of just going up to the red and then coming back down.
For the gauge to go up and down like that it’s more likely that there’s an air pocket (or exhaust pocket) circulating around in there and at times it gets trapped near the water pump and the temp goes up.
I’m not sure how they checked for combustion gasses but just make sure you get some sort of warranty in writing. We are replacing head gaskets right now on a car that a shop just installed a brand new set of gaskets but due to improper repair procedures, the car leaked coolant right away. They got frustrated and brought it to us to have it done right.
Good luck,
Mike
Hello Diane,
Sorry to hear about the woes of your Forester. The mystery is why did it happen. If the fluids were checked properly before the trip it is a big mystery. If they just checked the coolant overflow bottle but did not look in the radiator, it may have been low all along and just overheated.
Either way, with the way the engine failed it needs to be replaced. I believe the pricing on both options is reasonable. The 2005 engine with 75000 miles is a reasonable option but if you want to keep the car long term it may be best to go new. Even the 2005 engine with that mileage may need head gaskets at some point.
Sometimes if it’s in the budget, we will get a used engine for a customer and replace the head gaskets on it before it’s put in the car. You’ll have to crunch the numbers to see if it’s even worthwhile. It may end up costing as much as new once you’re done.
I hope it works out for the best and I hope someone discovers the root cause before putting in a new engine so it won’t happen again.
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
206-417-0880
I have a 2004 Subaru Outback that has had head gasket issues. In December 2010 at 44,000 miles head gasket was leaking. Subaru stated that they would replace both head gaskets for partial payment of $750, now less than a year and a half later and the car at 55,000 miles the head gasket is leaking again. The Subaru dealer mechanic supervisor confirmed that it was an issue (head gasket leaking for Subarus from 1996-2004) but Subaru of America states that it is not a “known problem” and will only pay $450, states that I need to pay $1500 to have it fixed again. In addition, the oil pump is leaking. All at 55,000 miles. I am really frusterated as my car has low mileage and has been regularly maintained. Friends recently lost their SUbaru Outback when the head gasket blew up while on road trip with children in the car. Feel like something more needs to be done about this recurring issue. Do not know why this is a recommended family car. (Also bought 2 Subarus with in a 5 month period, which makes me even more upset).
Thanks so much, Mike. Turns out they did do the full check on the fluids so it’s still a mystery. The only other thing I still worry about is that we had the air conditioner on high because it’s never been that efficient. So far no one has suggested that would have been an issue though.
We were inclined to do the rebuild, so are encouraged in that direction because we would like to keep the car long term. If you have any thoughts on anything we should be sure they check that might not be otherwise done in the normal course of the rebuild, I would love to hear them. Otherwise, thanks again for your thoughts on this! Diane
Well Diane, If they are going to rebuild it I would have them purchase the remanufactured short block assembly from a Subaru dealer. The shotblocks that we’ve seen from Subaru have been very well done. They also include a new water pump, oil pump, rear main seal and oil pan with the unit. Once you have that you will want the cylinder heads sent out to be machined (make sure there’s no galling of the camshafts). When they do the valve job on the heads, have them inspect the valve guides to make sure none have moved. On Subaru heads we do see that issue from time to time.
Other than that, re-assemble it with care using Six-Star gasekts and genuine Subaru seals or OEM seals.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Subaru Repair in Seattle
206-417-0880
Wow Eden, I feel your frustration.
The statement by Subaru that it’s not a “known problem” leaves my jaw dropping every time I hear it. I wish in your case they would see what a great customer of theirs that you’ve been and just take care of it for you.
I’m sorry to hear it has gone that way for you but hope it will get better.
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Having bought a Subaru twice from the Jacksonville dealership, I am taken aback at the poor and rude manner in which my repair complaint was handled today. I had my 90000 scheduled maintenance done a the appropriate time and had the timing belt replaced, as they recommended. Now, at 126,000 miles, I heard a weird noise and took it into a reputable repair shop, who then discovered that the seals were not put on at the time the belt was replaced. I contacted the dealership to have it either towed there for them to look at it or have them send a mechanic to take a look. they refused either one. They refused to have anything at all to do with this car. I talked to the “acting” service manager, Shawn, who is actually the parts manager, and he said that because I did not take it to them, their original work was not guaranteed. Also, the owner, Mr. Porter, stated that because I haven’t been into the dealership foe 12 months, he can’t guarantee anything and he can’t guarantee the 90000 mile work that was done.
A reputable owner of a reputable repair shop stated that the seals were not put on the timing chain. He took it apart and found they were not there. Should not Subaru taken a more pro-active approach in investigating this situation? I was a very, very loyal Subaru owner, but honestly, this has left me with a very bad taste in my mouth. I would like the number to a district service manager so that I make take this manner further.
anne marie
I’m sorry to hear of your treatmentAnne Marie. You may want to call 1-800-subaru3 to discuss matters with the Subaru customer service center. If a dealer gets too many complaints Subaru corporate will get involved.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Indpendent Subaru repair in Seattle
Mike – I bought my elderly mother a 2006 Subaru Outback 2.5i in 2007 with only 11,998 miles on the engine. Due to her age and health, she is no longer driving and has elected to return the Outback to me. She used the Outback very little over the 5 years . . . it only has 17,000 miles on it today! I will be traveling this weekend to retrieve the Outback and drive it 1,400 miles back to my home. Before I depart on the 2-day return 1,400 mile trip, I intend to have the oil changed. After reading your comments in the terrific posts above, it seems to me that I should also have the coolant flushed, filled and conditioned by Subaru as well. Do you agree and are there any other maintenance efforts I should have performed (aside from fluid level checks and tire inflation) that I should also have performed? Your insight and frank comments are greatly appreciated.
Thank you in advance,
Geoff
Hi Mike, First, this is really a great site, and thanks for spending the time to respond honestly, and with much insight into our questions.
I bought a 2005 Forester 1.5 years ago with 70K miles on it. It just hit 100K miles, and brought it in for a full service. The dealer said I needed the head gasket replaced and quoted me $4K for the repair. I brought it somewhere else for a second opinion, and said they would replace it for $2K. I have been a great customer of Subaru,had a recall, and maintained my car. Would it be worth contacting Subaru and seeing if they would help with the HG replacement? Thanks Sam
Hi Sam,
Before we go too far, just make sure the head gaskets are leaking bad enough to necessitate replacement. If they’re leaking coolant or quite a bit of oil, it’s time. If it’s just a small amount of oil with no sign of coolant leak, then you may want to leave well enough alone until it further develops.
Your first route is to request that the dealer helps you out with some of their “goodwill” money that Subaru alots to each dealer. If you don’t get any help there then I would call 1-800-subaru3 and see if you get any assistance from Subaru corporate.
Good luck as always,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru in Seattle
206-417-0880
Hello Geoff,
I couldn’t agree more with you on your plan of action. Since the coolant has been sitting in that engine for 6 years it’s a great idea to get it changed out (as well as most of the other fluids also).
I hope your Subaru gives you many years of trouble free travel.
Cheers,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Care
Shoreline, WA
I am retired and recently was forced to “junk” my 89 Ford F-250 (with 77000 miles) because of a faulty catalytic converter. ( I live in CA and they won’t let you replace it).
I bought a 2007 Outback Wagon with 125.000 mi on it. Very clean car and the 125,000 service was just done.Immediately I noticed that when the outside air setting was on, all you could smell was exhaust when you were at a stop light. Dealer said it was the position of the intake and just leave the recirc button on.
The RPM’s were fluctuating at a stop as well (500-900) All seemed fine for about3000 miles and at that point it started to overheat. Plenty of coolant in the overflow, so I had it towed to the dealer.
They “flushed the radiator and said they could find no problems. One week later it overheated. Tool it to a local mechanic who replaced the thermostat. One week later it overheated. Coolant was boiling in the overflow and dealer said I need new head gaskets.
I had no idea of the unreliability of this car. Have I been screwed?? They want 1900 to fix it.
Just as an aside, I bought the car for reliability and since I put about 3000 miles per year, I assumed it would be OK. Should have bought a Honda!
Wow, great site,thanks. I’m seriously considering a new Subaru, and I read somewhere that the Subaru engines were
redesigned in 2011, to put less stress on the heads ?
Had you heard that and do you have any input ??
(That might be in your site and I could have missed it, if so I apologize.)
Thanks so much
Hi Julie,
The Subaru engine indeed was redesigned. It has many changes including eliminating a timing belt. I haven’t come across any information about the redesign having to do with putting less stress on the heads but if you ever come across any information put out by Subaru on this issue, please forward it to me.
Thank you,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
206-417-0880
Smart Independent Subaru Repair
Hi Randy, it appears you may have been subject to a string of incomplete diagnosis from shop to shop on your Subaru. The line about the smell sounds like a bunch of baloney to me. If you were getting an exhast smell in the car something was not right. It may have actually been exhaust or it could also have been the smell of burning oil evaporating off the engine or exhaust from a leak. A Subaru doesn’t need the recirc on just to smell clean inside. I wouldn’t look at this like a string of repair after repair. It probably needed head gaskets from the get go and at that time they could have put in a new thermostat and also checked the radiator flow. Unfortunately there are a lot of shops out there that are either ignorant about the specifics of Subaru or just downright lazy when it comes to a thorough diagnosis.
I hope the shop it’s at now is a quality shop that has thoroughly assessed the whole situation. $1900 to replace the head gaskets is actually quite reasonable in todays repair market.
Good luck and I would suggest using Six Star head gaskets if you go ahead with the repair and have the heads and block closely inspected for any imperfections that may necessitate machining.
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru in Seattle
http://www.smart-service.com
Hey Mike,
I’m sort of the opposite of most of your posters, I’m trying to SELL a 2004 Impreza 2.5RS. It’s at 94,000 and it’s had the 100k tune-up (timing belt, etc), but I’ve been told the gaskets are leaking a tiny bit of oil right now(according to my mechanic). I’ve got one offer on the table but it is about $1000 lower than I am hoping for strictly because the guy took it to his mechanic who says the gaskets have to be replaced. How urgent is the problem? I know the car has been well maintained and I’d like to think the small amount of oil means there is time before the gaskets need to be changed…or am I driving a time bomb? What do you think is a fair price for such a vehicle which is in great shape in every other way?
Thanks!
Will
Hi Will,
If the coolant level has always remained full and there’s just some oil residue on the engine in the head gasket area and no oil drips onto the frame, it may be quite some time before it ever develops into something more significant. There’s no way of knowing for sure but if you were my customer and the leak fit that description, I would just note it in your file and tell you to keep an eye on it to see if it ever progressed beyond that. If I saw any coolant residue or the oil leak became heavy,then I’d recommend doing them.
We’ve seen some Subarus with light oil seepage around the head gasket as early as 50,000 miles and they’re still running fine at over 100k years later. Their oil seep becomes slightly heavier but hasn’t become necessary to repair yet.
I’m not sure if yours falls into this catagory since I haven’t seen it myself but if that were the case I think I’d be a bit more firm on my price. It may be best for you to have the car raised up and look at it yourself.
Good luck in the sale,
Mike Corbin,
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Advice in Seattle
206-417-0880
Hello Mike you have quite the awesome site here.
I will admit I think I am being paranoid but heres the deal (I really like my car thats why im paranoid i believe). I have an 07 2.5i Impreza Wagon (4eat) that I bought 2.5 years ago with 32000 miles that has roughly 52000 miles on it now. I noticed that it tends to smell after longer drive, that being said I keep track of all my fluids and the only one that has ever lost a drop is my oil. I go through about a quart every 4000 to 5000 miles (running full synthetic changing oil and filter around every 5000 to 6000 miles). I also do realize that when changing the oil i have spilled some on the exhaust and expect that to smell for a week or so but it seems to smell all the time after really long drives. I am wondering if the smell is caused by a leaking head gasket or if the car just puts out a warm smell after a long drive. Also should I be worried about the disapearing quart of oil (I have had previous cars and trucks where that was normal and not anything to worry about).
Thanks in advance for your response!
-Dirk
Hello Dirk,
Thanks for your post. I don’t think it’s time to be concerned yet. An engine will smell hot after a long drive espescially in the summer months. It is still a good idea to visually inspect the top and bottom of the engine for any residual leaks or seepage. If it all looks fine on the outside then it’s probably just a normal smell.
As far as having to add oil, this is pretty normal considering how many miles are being put on the oil. If you change the oil every 3000 miles you’ll probably find it isn’t quite needing a quart by the time you change it. There are many self proclaimed experts telling you that you don’t need your oil changed as often but they don’t see the inside of these engines after years of use. I would still advise every 3000-3500 miles on your Subaru unless you’re using a full synthetic oil like Mobil 1. Then I’d go every 4000-4500.
Frankly, oil changes are the least expensive and most important bit of protection that you can do for your car.
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert in Seattle
206-417-0880
http://www.smart-service.com
Have a 2006 outback,my repairs include rear wheelbearing, both front drive axles, broken strut, and now my headgasket leaks. Dealership is stating its between 2000-2500. The rear wheelbearing went bad at 80000 miles but dealership said my VIN was outside of 2006 recall so I had to pay to fix it.
I will never buy a subaru again.
I have a Subaru Outback XT 2008, 64,900 miles (warranty expired at 60k) bought it new. “Check Engine” light came up. I disconnected the battery to clear the code, thinking it is your typical gas cap deal, it came back 2 days later though. I went to a local auto shop and their diagnostic tool read PO304 – piston 4 misfire, there were couple thing listed as potential problem, spark plugs, plugged injectors or a problem with a piston. When in low revs (f.e. at lights) it started to idle more rough that before.
After couple of weeks and maybe 100 miles of driving I went for spark plugs replacement (would not even consider there might be sth else wrong) yet I was bit surprised that they would need replacing right after 60k mile mark. It was done at a local shop – 4 spark plugs were replaced and 2 coil-packs as well which were damaged due to misfiring in cylinders 2 and 4. The mechanic said that spark plugs looked good. They were able to clear code from cylinders but misfire code in cylinder 4 came back. Pressure was measured, in a cylinder 2 it measured 140lbs while a cylinder 4 only 110lbs. I was told engine needs to be taken apart and inspected for possible damage of piston rings or piston itself. After car was assembled back I drove it home – during 10 mile drive car died about 5-6 time in low rev situations – at the traffic lights. Not sure what to do next but it seems I should call 1 800 Subaru 3. Any idea what else could cause pressure drop other than what described as a possible problem by a mechanic?
huge thanks,
XT
Not sure if this is meant to be a question or comment but I sympathize with what you have had to do at such low mileage on your Subaru.
Mike
Hi XT
I think it’s best to have them continue with further diagnosis such as a leakdown test to see if the problem is due to the piston and or valves not sealing properly. Also, what grade of gas do you use in the car. We’ve had a few premature engine failures on the turbo models because folks weren’t aware that the engine required premium fuel as well as close attention to oil change intervals.
If you’ve maintained the car per the Subaru recommendations, have your receipts and have been using premium unleaded, then a call to the Subaru hotline may be in order.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru in Seattle
Hi Mike,
thanks for responding. Yup I use 92 or higher gas and keep oil intervals the way it is recomended by Subaru, All servcing done at the dealer except for spark plugs.
I am going to follow steps you suggested in your post (check for recalls, get maintenance records and a list of people who have Subaru’s due to my recommendation) then I am callling 1 800 Subaru 3. Will post outcome here.
Thanks again,
XT
Hi Mike,
This is a pretty informative blog you have here. I don’t see too many folks in my situation though. I have an ’08 Legacy 2.5i Limited. I just got it back from the auto body shop after a collision, and it is now running very rough at stoplights and stop signs. The body shopped feigned ignorance and suggested I take it so the dealership, which I did. They chalked up the sudden rough idle and stalling to a dirty throttle body and fuel injectors, but they also noted that I have a head gasket leak (oil seepage). At this time, there is no oil in the coolant, and it doesnt seem as if coolant is leaking into the oil or combustion chambers. They gave me an estimate of $1800, and also recommended the timing belt for an additional $1000. The car has 104K miles on it, and I bought it new. I’ve been pretty spot on with oil changes, although once or twice I stretched it out from 7500 to 9500 miles.
Is it premature to have head gasket failure on an ’08 with 104K miles? I’m frustrated because I bought the car expecting realibility, but I’m on my third power steering pump, have had tthe cats and all sensors replaced under warranty, had two ECM recalls, had sunroof and window motors fail, and the transmission “slams” into 2nd gear on deceleration ever since the car was new.
Your thoughts?
Hmmm….
First of all, if it ran fine before the body shop/accident I would focus on solving that specific issue first. If the car was started and stopped a lot at the body shop as they moved it around it may be as simple as fouled plugs. It’s fairly common for this to happen due the fact the cars are started for just a minute or two and then shut down. The fuel mixture is rich and it just fouls the plugs.
As far as dirty throttle and fuel injectors… this is something that would have developed slowly over a long period of time, not overnight. Be wary on that one. Oil seepage is nothing to worry about but I would do the timing belt at 105k when it’s due.
The other items sound like more problems on an 08 than I’m used to hearing about.
I understand your dilemma and hope they’re able to fix it.
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru Care Seattle to Everett
206-417-0880
The head gaskets on my 03 Forester were replaced at 60K miles. The dealer picked up the cost but I had to pay for the water pump. Ok, so I take my 08 Forester in, 56K miles and they say the head gaskets are leaking- I will pursue this with the dealer but my question is my ’10 Forester destine for the same problem? Another question on my mind, my 03 seems to be consuming lots of oil between oil changes-all work is done at the dealers on all our Subarus and we are proactive in getting all recommended check ups. Could there be a correlation between oil consumption and the replaced head gaskets? Thanks for you help and time.
Well I hope your 2010 Subaru won’t need it’s head gaskets as soon as your other Subaru gaskets fail but it may be something that happens years in the future. We’ve seen 0 2010′s and newer with this issue but they’re still new enough that more time must pass before we can really evaluate the longevity.
As far as the 03 Forester oil consumption, it is probably burning some oil. If you’re adding a quart or two between oil changes that is certainly acceptable for a Subaru of that age and mileage. (although not optimum we do see it from time to time).
I don’t think that the oil consumption has to do with the head gaskets in my opinion.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru repair in Seattle.
206-417-0880
http://www.smart-service.com
Thanks for the info Mike. My 08 Forester with 55,135 miles has leaking head gaskets (SOA may help me out) the wheel bearing was replaced today under warranty and I was told that the power steering rack was leaking- the dealer said he could do nothing about that but take my $1000 for the repair. I’ve had five Subaru- two of which have had head gaskets problems at around 60K miles. I am very disappointed with Subaru and cant under stand the power steering issue at all. What are you thoughts. Thank you again for your time and expertise.
Hey Mike,
Reading this forum, and your helpful replies… I thought I would give you a shot.
Well, I have a 2004 Impreza Wagon wish 21k miles on it. My grandmother had it and maintained it very well. She got the oil changes every 3 months (even if she drove it 500 miles).
She gave me the car, and I haven’t had time to get an appointed oil change, since my work schedule, but the head gasket is gone. Do you know if Subaru might cover me? It’s been 8 years since the car was purchased, but other than that very well maintained. She and I were both in shock it’s gone at 21000 miles. She’s bummed, and so am I. Especially reading people are talking over 100k miles of use. Please help
Sorry, I didn’t clarify enough;
*I have gotten the appointed oil change but not at the dealer.
*I have loaded high grade oil in the car when needed between changes – which isn’t much.
*It was a nice car so I gave my Toyota away to my dad thinking this prime vehicle was mine. lol
Hi Mike -
I stumbled on your website while searching for subaru head gasket issues. Great site and tons of information. I just want to appreciate your goodwill and taking the time to answer the questions of all these people. Thanks man.
-Giri
Hi Katherine,
I think that with a little persuasion to Subaru corporate you may be able to get some assistance. Call 1-800subaru3 and explain your issue.
With that low mileage and how new the car is I hope they help.
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Repair in Washington
Hello Matthew,
It’s worth a shot seeing if a dealer will help you or if Subaru corporate will help but the years on the vehicle may prevent them from helping you.
Sometimes low mileage vehicles have more issues with leakage than high mileage cars.
I hope they help you but in this case I won’t be surprised if they decline.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru Expert in Seattle
Mike, thanks for your site — it’s excellent reading, even for us living overseas. I especially enjoyed your “About me” section.
I hate to hijack the head gasket topic, but I would greatly appreciate your thoughts on the subject of the turbo engine recall for the 2008-09 Foresters.
My MY09 Forester XT was bought locally in Athens, Greece. All I have is praise for this car which has served me and my family very well.
Well, enter the economic crash of 2010, which, among other things, has forced Subaru to withdraw from our (small) market. Plus, fuel prices are more than double what you have to pay in the States. Still, we manage to have some fun with our subies (http://www.youtube.com/user/xenophon61).
My concern is whether the turbo engine recall of 2009 applies to my case (VIN# JF1-SH9-LT5-9G-0-04348). Searching the web for the answer has left me with more questions, as it is not clear whether it’s in the affected VIN range.
I’m sure you have more expertise on the subject.
Thanks for a great site.
Xen
Our Subaru is currently at the dealer and we’re being told the bolts that hold the tranny onto the engine are missing. I broke down at a gas station near a Pep Boys where they did a quick check but no service. All they did was leave 2 pieces of the bell housing (they found on starter) in the car for the techs at the dealership.
Right before I broke down there was a horrible cranking noise coming from under the hood…turned it off for gas and it wouldn’t start back up…just a constant grinding noise.
The car (2009 Subaru Outback) has 126,000 on it but never heard of the tranny bolts (bell housing)coming loose. I hope they at least help me out with this cost….if not, no more Subarus.
Hello, I have an 07 Subaru Legacy with only 67,000 miles and was told my head gaskets need replacing. It’s frustrating reading all of this but looks like some people had some luck. I really thought the head gasket problems were long gone but it doesn’t look like it. I am very disapointed as we also own an 08 Subaru. My dealership will not help with the cost at all. I am thinking of contacting another dealership and then if no help there contacting Subaru. What are your thoughts?
Hello Xen, Based on the US Recall your vin number does not fall within the range but their production numbers may not be the same as your market. I think I would suggest following up with Subaru by contacting them any way possible via email or customer help lines. I don’t know how to further advise you since they pulled out of your market.
Good luck, Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru Repair in Seattle
Hi Kirk,
That is a very strange problem and I have not seen it unless some one had had the bolts out previously and never fully tightened them. There may be other causes but it would be beyond me what failure would have caused that in and of itself.
I would check the records to see who had the engine or transmission out in the past and discuss the issue with them. Let me know if more information becomes available. I’m very interested in what may have caused it.
Thank you,
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru in Seattle
http://www.smart-service.com
I would contact the dealer you purchased the Subarus from and hopefully the fact that you have purchased Subarus from them will weigh on their decision. If not I’d call Subaru directly and not worry about wasting time with other dealers.
I think you have a strong case of getting help if you have a good track record of maintenance.
Good luck, Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert
Shoreline, Wa
I looked at a 2000 Subaru Outback tonight. The guy is asking only $1950 for it because it has an engine noise. To me it sounds like lifters, but I don’t know that much about cars to be sure. It’s a clicking noise that when I put it in neutral and pressed on the gas got a little loud and a lot faster.
I am going to have my mechanic look at it to diagnose the issue. My question is can my mechanic tell from looking at this car if the head gasket has been replaced? The car has 184k miles and had a newer (but still used) engine put in around 75k miles I believe. I’m guessing with that mileage it had to already have been replaced.
thanks.
Hi Mike,
I came across your blog this summer after I experienced overheating on my 2008 Outback (2.5i engine). I had driven the car up to Leadville, CO (which is at 10,000ft). I did not notice any problems heading up to Leadville from Denver. The problem started early in the morning when temperatures were very cool (compared to Denver) and realively easy driving conditions (other than being at 10,000ft). As I was pulling into the trail head parking lot the temperature gauge started going up and also the engine started to sound like it was running higher. I shut the car down and let it be for about 9 hours. When I left later that day to head back to Denver the car started to overheat as I was going up the mountain passes. I quickly turned on the heater to cool down the engine (which worked as expected). I didn’t have any problems until about a month later I repeated the same trip and the same thing happened. I don’t have any problems in my day-to-day driving until this week. Now when I start up my car white smoke comes out of the exhaust. After the first incident I talked to a friend who is a mechanic and his first reaction was Head Gasket. Some other friends have indicated that seems odd on a 2008 with only 65,000 miles (it had 61,000 when this first happened.) I am the original owner and I keep up on my necessary maintenance. Before I go drop $2,700 I wanted to see if you had any thoughts. After all I have read / researched it seems very likely to be a head gasket problem.
Like a lot of other people I have toyed with trading it in (mainly because it’s not paid off yet).
Any insight would be greatly appreciated! If I lived in WA I wouldn’t hesitate to bring my car to you.
Jacqlyn
Hello
My daughter was Informed by a Subaru dealership that her 2003 Outback Sedan 2.5 with 70,000 miles had a bad head gasket leak. To make a long story short, I told her to call Subaru of America and ask for some help. After she paid the $2,100 dollar bill, they sent her a $500 dollar check. They Included the timing belt and water pump from what she told me. The car was well mantained having just had the 60,00 mile service done. I have a 2004 Subaru Outback sedan 2.5 with 60,000 miles and starting to get very nervous driving it! LOL!
I must add, when I state “they Included the timing belt and water pump”, I didn’t mean that Subie paid for it. It was part of the cost!
We bought a used 1998 Subaru Legacy Outback about 2 years ago. They told us that they had a different engine put in because of a head gasket issue. I have the paper work on the engine. It was not a new engine. It was done by a guy that had worked for a Subaru dealer at one point, but opened his own buiness. Now we just took our Subaru to our mechanic and he says it is the head gasket. We live in Frankfort KY and were do I take it and about how much are we looking at? I’m guessing that we don’t qualify for Subaru paying for to be fix. Right? And if we do get it fix, will it be for sure it won’t happen again? The car has 161,000 miles on it. HELP!!!
Hi,
I have a 2004 Outback wagon and just found out that I need head gasket and axle boots, 2500 dollars from dealer.
I have 116ooo miles and was wondering if my car will be the same if I repair it. I am looking at your website and this is a little disconcerting if this is a common problem. I love my Subaru but am thinking that a different car might be in order. Can someone please give me some advice.Thanks.
It sounds like your Subaru Outback engine may have a piston rod bearing knock. If it gets louder as you rev it I’d be concerned. They do have adjustable valves so it’s a slight possibility that it’s only in need of a valve adjustment but I’d plan on budgeting to replace the engine if and when you make any offer on the car.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Experts in Seattle
206-417-0880
Hi Jacqlyn,
It’s not unheard of for even a 2008 Outback 2.5 engine to have a head gasket issue. From your description it may be what is going on. What caused it should be investegated too. If the head gaskets were the cause of the overheating then just replacing them will solve it but if something caused the Outback to overheat and damaged the head gaskets then that issue will need to be remedied along with the replacement of the head gaskets.
I might suggest that you enlist the help of a Subaru dealer. With how new your Subaru is and the low mileage makes it a very good candidate to recieve some sort of help from Subaru. You’ll want to have all of your service records in hand before contacting them to show you’ve taken good care of the car up to this point. If they offer no help then call 1-800-subaru3 and they may help you.
I’m sorry to hear of the problem and I hope Subaru decides to help you since you have such low mileage. If they don’t and you have to pay for it yourself, I suggest getting some Six-Star head gaskets to install if the repair is needed.
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Diagnostics and Repair in Seattle
http://www.smart-service.com
Hello Gary,
Thanks for sharing the story of Subaru helping out with the head gasket job. I wish it was one I heard more frequently but any help on such an expensive job surely helps matters.
As for your car, I think the odds are in your favor it may be quite a bit longer before you ever need to replace your head gaskets. The newer Subarus from 07 on up seem to be in less frequently for that problem thus far.
Cheers,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru repair in Seattle
http://www.smart-service.com
Home of the “Six-Star” head gasket
Hello Mary,
Unfortunately I don’t believe Subaru would offer any help on a Subaru of your vintage based on what I’ve seen in the past. If it were a 2008 Outback that may be another matter but it isn’t.
To repair the head gaskets you’ll probably see a price range of $1700-2500 depending on how thorough the shop is or how cut rate they are. If you don’t have an independent Subaru specialist in the area I’d suggest checking with whoever your local Subaru dealer is.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
206-417-0880
Hi Cynthia,
If you replace the head gaskets with the Six-Star brand, chances are you wouldn’t have to replace them again. If you can’t get a set, the Genuine Subaru head gaskets are still imporved over what was originally on your car so even they will last quite a while before ever needing replacement if at all.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru Care in Shoreline
http://www.smart-service.com
I have a 2010 wrx that blew the motor just under 36000 miles I took it to the dealer ship and dealt with soa I had my car serviced with in the mandated miles with synthetic oil but my warranty was turned down because they found sludgey oil and metal chips. I took it to my mechanic and he found a blown head gasket and another piston blown apart it do you know of any cases like this and the best way to present this to soa to get it warrantied
So my gasket just went on my 2008 legacy, 4 years old?!?!? Yes she has 103,000 miles on her, but she is very well taken care of and as we all do I paid well for her to avoid things you would not expect to happen. I am floored. I am a little worried that I have not kept all my receipts, there are some car fax records as well, and I was just about to take her in for her timing belt replacement. Should I try to fight this? I am single mom that can’t be in an unsafe or without a car, and it’s breaking my heart. Not too mention, I’m still paying payments, I just can’t affoard it!
Wow, I’m sorry to hear of the problem. I think the best way to approach it is to have a detailed folder of receipts of every service that has ever been performed on the car. It also helps if the car is completely stock without modifications. If the oil is sludgey like you say then it will certainly give them reason to believe the car hasn’t been maintained. I’ve owned many Subarus and if you change the oil frequently they don’t build up sludge. (espescially synthetic oil).
If you’re unable to come up with documentation that the car was properly maintained then there isn’t much chance of them helping out.
It sounds like a tough one and I hope you’re able to get it worked out.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru Service
Seattle Washington
Hi Robin,
I’m sorry to hear of the gasket (I assume head gasket). I think your best bet is to compile your receipts and present your case to a Subaru dealer. If they don’t help, call 1-800-SUBARU3 for the national customer hotline. If you can’t find all your receipts, many shops can reprint prior receipts for you upon request.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert
Shoreline, WA
Mike, Good afternoon. I am interested in buying 2006-09 Outback, and I live in Shoreline, WA. Would you be willing to do a inspection of a car that we find? This is a great site and thank you for your expertese on these issues.
Eric
Hi Eric,
We would be happy to perform a pre-purchase inspection for you on any Subaru you may be interested in purchasing. Please call us at 206-417-0880 when you find a vehicle you need inspected. From there we’ll set up an appoint at your earliest convenience. Feel free to drop in and discuss the pros/cons of the different models you may be looking at.
Thank you,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
206-417-0880
I need new head gaskets and the dealership told me to contact Subaru, but they were unwilling to help. my dealership didn’t offer help either, I have been calling around and can get the service performed elsewhere for cheaper. I am considering doing that, but I am not sure if there are places that would be better than others is there specific things that Subaru would do that another repair shop wouldn’t? And is there a specific kind of headgasket I should ask for? I know the ones in my subaru are sub par, do they make all the factory ones better now?
Hi David,
They do make a better head gasket than what originally was on your Subaru. I can’t advise you where to go since I don’t know the reputations of the shops in your area but usually sticking with the Subaru dealer will be a safe bet unless there is a high quality independent Subaru shop in your area. I prefer “Six-Star” brand head gaskets but the genuine Subaru gasket being offered now is still quite an upgrade over what you originally had.
Good luck
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
206-417-0880
wow, this info is all great but overwhelming. I just found out that my 2006 Forester needs new headgaskets at only 78k miles. I haven’t contacted Subaru yet, but I have talked to the dealership where I bought my car they seem to be the cheapest dealership and quoted me $2500, but other auto shops I have been to are quoting me up to 800 less, and I was also thinking of going with one of them, now I am second guessing, but it is so much money, and I really cannot afford this right now, it’s a big decision and i am not sure what to do. Subaru is very convincing, they told me that if I went elsewhere for service I could get non subaru grade coolant or parts and it could hurt my car and end up costing more, I don’t know who to trust.
Hi Emily,
Unless you know about the reputation of the other shops I’d go to the Subaru dealer. By going to them they you will also have a chance for Subaru to help financially. If you take it to an independent it’s unlikely that Subaru will help you at all. I would call the Subaru help line to check with them then set up an appointment with the dealer of your choice.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru Expert
206-417-0880
Mike,
Thanks very much for all the information. I’ve got a 2006 Legacy, bought used in 2009 with 76k on it, now have about 97k on it. Took it to the dealership yesterday and found out it was leaking oil on the LHG. No drips in the garage, so I’m thinking it’s not that bad. I’ve decided to watch the oil and the antifreeze for anything abnormal.
Too bad dealerships don’t have someone like you at the customer service counter, I think there would be a lot fewer upset Subie owners. Having someone cheerily give you a $1900 estimate is a bit rough.
Thanks and regards,
John
We bought a Subaru Legacy brand new in 06. It only has 72k miles on it and has bad head gaskets. I was so disappointed to hear this after having a Honda for years and not having any problems. The repairs will be around $1800. Thanks to seeing your site and reading the replies, I was able to get SOA to cover $500 of it. While I am happy for that, I am still disappointed in Subaru for clearly not fixing this problem. I will think twice about buying another Subaru, and am also worried that this will happen again a few thousand miles down the road. It looks like that has happened to other posters on here.
This is great source of info for Subarus! Thanks for maintaining it.
We’ve had several Subarus since 1995, but this latest is the first where we’ve had serious problems (the old head gasket story!). It’s a 2001 Forester with 160k, and when it started using more coolant than normal, someone diagnosed bad head gaskets. Though it was fairly minor: no leaking oil or coolant, and no noticeable exchange of oil or coolant with those systems, and no steam from the exhaust.
I couldn’t afford new head gaskets, so I poured in some gasket sealant, and it immediately stopped the loss of coolant. It runs beautifully, no overheating or any other problems.
Now, I know this isn’t a permanent solution, but how long do you think I can the Forester going with this solution? There are several other repairs waiting around the corner (catalytic converter, CV joint/boots on front axles, rear wheel bearing) which might make a total repair bill of more than $4000. So I’ll probably buy a small, non-Subaru compact car when that point comes, I’m so gun-shy now of bad head gaskets, piston slap, etc. But I’d like to keep this Forester going as long as I can’
Hi Wesley,
Well, that’s the first time I’ve heard of a stop leak type of sealant stop the leak. I’ve seen it attempted many times only to end up plugging the radiator and heater core but never actually fixing the leak. I really have no idea how long it may last but I will advise saving up so you can be in the position to either fix it or replace the car altogether.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Broke down and got my 2006 Outback HG replaced by subaru dealer in VA beach for $1880. Price I paid was less expensive than the dealer’s first estimate of 2000-2500. Would rather have not had to replace the HG.
I have a 1999 Subaru Forester appox 137,000 mile with a head gasket problem. Oil and fumes enter the passenger compartment if vent inside is not closed. I’m wondering if this problem has raised any legal issues and if so how has Subaru addressed them. Buy looking at this blog there seems to be a definite problem. This car belongs to my 76 year old mother. Just wondering if there is a recall on this…
Hi Chrys,
I don’t know of any legal action that has been taken against Subaru over this issue.
As far as the fumes go, it may be just that you have some oil leaks. It’s not always the head gaskets. I suggest having it checked out by a qualified shop.
Cheers,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
http://www.smart-service.com
Independent Subaru repair in Seattle
Hi Mike,
My 99 Forester, with 157,000 miles has been a wonderful car. I have maintained it well. It recently started over heating and I had it checked. It turns out it needs a new head gasket and similar to all your other readers the cost estimate is around 3000k. Would I be better off having rebuilt engine placed, instead of replacing the head gasket? I was unaware that this a problem for this engine until now and would like to keep my well maintained little car for another 100000 miles if possible!
Thanks!
We have a 2008 outback and have just been told we have leaky head gaskets. it will cost $1750.00 to fix this problem. This car has been serviced and maintained by a subaru dealer several times a year. Will subaru do anything about this problem. We have 89,ooo miles on this vehicle. We expected to accumlate a lot more miles before major problems. Very dissapointed.
I have a 2006 Subaru Legacy Wagon (2.5 liter engine) with 78,000 miles which was diagnosed as having head gasket leaks on both sides. I followed the advice that Mike gave above. I created an Excel spreadsheet listing all maintenance and repairs and scanned and emailed all receipts to SOA–we had all regular maintenance done according to the warranty schedule, but most of it was done at an independent garage. The estimate for repair is $1400. Unfortunately, after talking to the dealer, SOA said that they cannot help with the repair “at this time.” They did offer to help with the purchase of a new Subaru and I did not even listen to their offer. I have had a series of Japanese cars over the years, usually Mazdas, and have never had issues of this type-where there has been a known design flaw. I am a bit stubborn, but I told SOA that I will never buy another Subaru again, which is true. To me, whether SOA stepped up in this situation makes all the difference between whether I will purchase another Subaru and they just lost a customer.
I’m sorry to hear they didn’t help and I agree with you completely on how their help and involvement can make or break a future deal. Cars can have problems but when they happen at lower mileage it is certainly a statement when the factory steps up and provides help after warranty. It sounds like you couldn’t have presented it any better. Sorry to hear they didn’t step up to help with the Legacy head gaskets.
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
206-417-0880
Independent Subaru in Seattle
If the car has been well maintained, I think it would be reasonable to get another 100k miles out of the Forester after the head gaskets are done. The $3000 is reasonable assuming they are doing more than just the head gaskets. (timing belt, rear engine seals, front engine seals, valve adjustment etc.).
I hope you get another 150 out of it if you choose to have it repaired!
Cheers,
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru expert in Seattle
Hi Barbara,
I would definately present the issue to Subaru and if you don’t get any help from the factory Subaru helpline, see if you can convince the dealer to help you out. They have some good will money they alot for situations just like yours that allows them to either make repairs for free or at a greatly reduced price. I know if it wer my 2008 Outback with only 89k miles I’d be pushing pretty hard for some assistance.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert
Seattle, WA
http://www.smart-service.com
Hi Mike,
What a helpful site! I first learned how to drive in a subaru many years ago, however, I am so fed up with my 2008 Subaru Outback 2.4i limited! We have 73,000 miles on it, had it into the dealer in October for $1100 in maintenance and repairs (including driver side axle boot and drive belts). Had given this car to our new teenage driver to use for its dependability! Called from school today when check engine light came on. Dealer is going to replace the catalytic converter, but also said that two head gaskets need replacing. This is my question- Subaru dealerships are supposed to be good, but we really don’t know that we trust his diagnostics. Before he even looked at the car, he was already talking to us about getting a new timing belt. They always seem to be up-selling us on maintenance. The only other Subaru dealership is in another city. How can we know if the head gaskets really need to be replaced? If we wait on this, would this pose a safety risk to our daughter? Help! We need someone we can trust!!
Hello Mike,
I need to tap your knowledge. I have a 2007 Outback with 49,xxx km on it. I took it in for its 50k service and I have been told it needs new head gaskets and that this will cost $3500 including the service. I asked how this is possible with such low milage and was told that the cause was the car ‘not being driven enough’. It has always been Subaru serviced.
No contibution offered towards repairing it, sadly.
Does this sound at all normal?
Thanks,
Mark
Hi Mark,
Well first of all if I owned a 2007 Outback with only 49k miles on it I would be really pressing the dealership hard and Subaru hard to fix them for you. Especially if you have records that it has been well maintained. The car originally came with a 5 year 60000 mile powertrain warranty so you’re in on mileage and must be close on age. You may want to call a different Subaru dealer with your VIN to see when you’re warranty expired. I hope your dealer ran your VIN before quoting you a price.
If you truley are out of warranty I would call 1-800-SUBARU3 and explain your situation to them. I really hope they will stand behind their product and offer some kind of help to you.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
206-417-0880
Hi Trish,
I think it’s good to be skeptical. I would hope that if there was an issue with the head gaskets that they would have mentioned something back in October. As far as your timing belt goes, it’s not recommended in the Subaru manual until 105000 miles. Whether the head gaskets need replacing is another story. Many people are being scared into replacing their gaskets because some shops realize that Subaru owners already know about the potential problem and it doesn’t take much to sell them a head gasket job when they expect it to happen someday. In your case I would get specifics on what fluid is leaking, how much, which side of the engine etc. Ask them to either show you the problem in person or to email you some photos that point out the leak.
If only a little oil is leaking than it’s only a minor issue that will continue to slowly ooze and get a litle worse over the years but doesn’t necessarily need replacement to keep the car reliable. On the other hand, if the head gaskets are leaking coolant I would recommend they be fixed at your earliest convenience. They won’t just blow out but can allow enough coolant to leak out over time to eventually cause an overheating problem with the engine.
If you have any other questions please feel free to ask.
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Repair.
Seattle, Washington
http://www.smart-service.com
Hi Mike,
I own a 2007 Subaru outback legacy with 88,000 miles. Always been serviced on schedule by the Subaru dealer. Today while car was being serviced I was told there is some oil leakage around one of the head gaskets. Didn’t need immediate repair but I should watch it. Also told to repair this would cost $3500.00. There are no recalls or campaigns on my vehicle and I just came out of my Gold coverage warranty in Nov. of 2011. This is my second Subaru and I am really disappointed having to face a major repair like this with under 100,000 miles on the car. The dealer is not offering any assistance except to tell me I can wait as its not real bad yet. Guess I need to contact Subaru??
Hi Mike,
I naustralia read your blog on blown Subaru Head Gaskets.
I owned a New 05 WRX (stock) always serviced with Fully Synth Oil, traded it in in 2007 for a New 07 STI (kept totally stock) reg dealer service and fully synth oil same as o5 WRX). Am happy to report WRX 53k trouble free km. STI now at 168k km no HG issues leaks or groans. Only issue had front struts on STI replaced three times and rear struts replaced once(all under manuafacturers 6 yr 100,000km warranty. Runs well and I drive the car 190-250km every other day. Some sensor issues etc but fixed with regular servicing. Car is very reliable mechanically. The other industry fault with Subaru (WRX and STI) is battery quality and going flat after 10-14 days non-use (completed 30yrs Australian Army finished in 2009). Replaced battery with better quality marine type battery and its performing perfectly 3yrs later (Its toally a lime green colour thats all I can remember without looking). I love Subaru and its safety and all wheel drive surefootedness in the wet. Got 49500km from factory tyres 62500 out of Dunlop 3000s and currently look to getting 80,000km plus out of same Dunlop 3000 on car. Good blog mate keep up the common sense technical advice well done. PS: Are “Six-Star” brand head gaskets the best available or the best cost effective option only Cheers Jim
Hey there Mike,
So i recently purchased a 97 Legacy GT, the previous owner had most of the receipts from prior maintenance, but the car has 153k miles at the moment and I can’t seem to find any receipts headgasket replacement.
The car does not leak a single drop of oil, but the temp gauge rises a little over halfway during longer drives, especially when i do not have the heater on. Once I blast the heat, the temperature gauge drops. I replaced the radiator cap, and it seemed to help a little bit, but now and then, the car still rises in temperature. The car had a new water pump put in within the last 20k miles but i have my suspicions that the thermostat is starting to go, or hopefully just needs a good burping of the coolant system… what do you think/reccommend?
thanks,
Nick
We took the advice in the blog and called Subaru USA after a $1900.00 quote for a head gasket repair on our 2004 Outback.
We called at 06:00 PM on 01/31/2013. They listened … checked the service records and said that they would get back to us.
At 09:00 AM today 02/01/2013 they called and said that they had spoken to the dealership and between them they would cut the price by between 50% and 60%. They are also providing a loaner for the duration of the 2 day repair.
Thank you again for the great ideas!
Great news David, I’m glad it worked out in your favor.
Mike
I recently became aware that my 2001 Forester has a leaking head gasket and a bad wheel bearing. Although the vehicle is 12 years old, it has only 95,000 miles and has been meticulously cared for (I have all the service records dating back to the first oil change).
I contacted Subaru and kindly asked that they include my car in their extended head gasket warranty because of the vehicle’s low mileage and outstanding repair record. At their request, I took the vehicle to Ira Subaru of Danvers, MA for factory authorized diagnosis of the problem. Ira agreed with the original service provider and handed me an estimated repair bill of $3987.00, roughly the total value of the vehicle!
In the end, Subaru stated they could provide no repair assistance whatsoever. Subaru’s “kind” offer was to allow me a $750.00 “incentive” toward the purchase of a new Subaru vehicle. Wow, what a generous offer to a valued customer anticipating almost $4000.00 in repairs due to their faulty manufacturing.
I purchased a Subaru in part because of their reputation for building reliable, road-worthy vehicles. I’ve learned the hard way, Subaru vehicles are totally unreliable and poorly manufactured! I am furthermore surprised that their “valued” customers mean so little to them. Why else would they offer me such an insulting “incentive”? Did they actually think I’d even consider the purchase of another one of their vehicles?
Hello Maureen,
It may be a case that your head gaskets have been having some light oil seepage over time and there may be no repair needed for a long time to come. I would suggest cleaning off all the old oil residue and monitoring it visually from this point forward to see how quickly the leak comes back.
Hopefully it is months before you see any sign of oil coming out of the head gaskets.
Hope this helps,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert
Shoreline, WA
98155
Thanks for th epost Jim,
The Six Star brand are the best available at this time in my opinion. They are among the most expensive also.
Cheers,
Mike
Hello Nick,
Let’s assume the head gaskets are fine. The next thing I’d be focusing on is how well the radiator is working. When the car is used for light duty it may not overheat but when the engine has to work on a long trip the radiator may be restricted enough it just can’t keep up. Probably not the thermostat but a good item to replace with the radiator if it’s needed.
Good luck,
Mike Coribn
Hi Liz,
Unfortunately your sentiment is echoed by many Subaru owners who’ve been in your shoes. It’s hard to keep owner loyalty when so little is offered to help.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru Expert
I have a 2004 Subaru Legacy SE 30th. Annv. wagon with the 2.5L. I started smelling antifreeze around 45,000 miles but problem was not diagnosed until 73,000 miles despite complaining about the problem several times to the dealer in between. Although they did replace the thermostat about three times it was not the correct diagnosis it was the head gaskets. After finally finding out it was the head gaskets the dealer said it would not be covered under warranty and could offer no other assistance. I called Subaru customer service and they were no help either. They said the car was out of warranty and that there was nothing more they could do for the problem with the head gasket repair. They offered to give me $500 towards the purchase of a new Subaru. Ha, what a slap in the face. I paid $1,800.00 to repair the car and now 13 months later (and less than 10,000 miles later) I started seeing (and smelling) antifreeze drips under my car. I took the car to my my local garage to have it looked at and sure enough the mechanic said the head gaskets were leaking again. Unbelievable! So I called the dealership and told them the head gaskets were leaking again. They made a appointment for me to bring the car in and have it looked at. I ask them if it would be covered under warranty and the service guy said they only cover repairs for 12 months when he new that it had been 13 months since the repair (actually 12 months and 12 days to the date). So I am on the phone with Subaru customer service AGAIN! They better make this right or else (unless) I guess they expect me to dole out $1,800.00 everytime the head gaskets crap-out. I think (I’m sure) that this is (my second and) my last Subaru that I buy/own. Thanks, Subaru. Also my Subaru and from what I found researching on the internet has a problem with the catalytic converters, I had to have mine replaced at only 42,000 miles. The guy at the dealership said I was lucky it was still under warranty or else it would have cost me close to $3,000. He said I must be putting bad gas in the car. Give me a break! What am I supposed to do carry around a chemistry set around with me and test the gas at the gas station before I put it in my car everytime. What a bunch of b.s.! Like I said I researched the problem on the internet and found out that it was another one of Subaru’s cronic problems. I wouldn’t mind if Subaru was up front with there customers and tried to help them out and make amends for their mistakes with their cars but when they lie and deceit their customers for the sake of profit it just gives themselves a bad name and reputation in the industry.
We just rec’d the bad news from the dealership for my wife’s 2006 Forester with 35,000….ridiculous. This is our 2nd Forester. The first one was 9 yrs old w/50K miles had been pretty much flawless. Based on that experience we traded it in for another one. We were told $1,200 for the left side gasket repair, which actually seems “reasonable” based on other experiences listed here. We were going to give this vehicle to our daughter in a couple of months and buy a new Outback for my wife. Given this situation, we will probably have to look at other vehicles. We will call Subaru to see if it gets us anywhere……..
Hi Roy,
I’m sorry to hear you were treated that way. I am as surprised as you that the head gaskets are already leaking again. (I’m sure the service manager of the dealership is too).
I really hope they will take care of things and at least show you that they’re willing to do the right thing.
Cheers,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
206-417-0880
Independent Subaru in Seattle
Hey Mike, I have a 07 outback with 73,000 miles that I bought used. When changing the oil I noticed the headgaskets were leaking pretty bad.
I have been smelling oil burning as it had been driping on the pipe. Also the I have been watching the reservoir bottle go down slow. The car never ran hot because I was keeping on top of what was going on.
I emailed Subaru and they said can’t help out of warranty. I emailed back politely giving them reasons why they should help with this repair.
They email me back saying, ok to help we need the service records for 30k, 60k and we will reveiw the records.
I email back and tell them I bought the car used so I don’t have any records and I don’t know if the 30k and 60k were ever done.
But…I ask.. if the headgaskets are leaking and your willing to help with the repair if the 30k, 60k were done that in itself is saying it does not really matter if the 30k 60k were done at all… these headgaskets are leaking anyhow right ?
They email back with a $750 reimbursement offer and they recommend I take my car to a Subaru Dealer. Fax a copy of the paid repair and we will send you a check.
If I had the records I think I could done better but with out records I think it was a fare offer.
The dealer confimred headgaskets leaking, New Headgaskets seals etc., with a new timing belt, spark plugs, serpentine and power steering belt for 1850 plus taxs. I’m sure I would been ok with all the old belts but this way I should be ok for a while.
Faxed the copy and they reply check will be in the mail.
Moral of the story don’t give up so easy, have some good reasons why you feel they should help.
I’ll try this again, first time my post didn’t go threw.
I bought a 07 Outback used about 6 mounths ago. The other day I smell oil burning and see the coolent overflow bottle was also low almost empty. Looking under the car I see it was also leaking oil from the headgasket above the oil filter and driping on the pipe.
I emailed Subaru, they said no help. After a couple more emails back and forth and some good reasons why I thought they should help, they did give me a check for $750. I had to show them a copy of the paid repair bill from the dealer once the repair was done.
This car had 70,000 on it with no service records.
Mike. We just took our 2005 Forester (91,000 miles) in for regular maintenance. In addition to the work done, they recommended a number of other things: replacing both leaking valve cover gaskets ($450), “head gasket seeping on left side–monitor and replace both left and right if it gets worse ($2890), replace rotted catylitic converter if head gaskets replaced ($1239) and replace rotted engine oil pan ($429). Two questions. First, do these repair estimates seem reasonable? And second, given the age of the car and these looming issues, does making the $5,000 investment in repairs on this vehicle stand a good chance of leaving us with a vehicle that will give us solid performance for a number of years? We’re likely in the market for a used car, and we’d prefer the Subaru to spending $10k or more on something else if this one has a chance of performing well after the needed repairs.
Thanks
Michael
Hi, thanks for your very helpful site. Just contributing a data point: 2006 Legacy sedan with 106,000 miles developed a head gasket leak on both sides. Not a lot of oil use yet but a distinct odor of burning oil each time it was driven, and drips on the garage floor. Per your advice, we called Subaru of America and got the dealer involved. The dealer confirmed the leaks, quoted $1900 to repair, and the dealer and Subaru of America each put in $500. We tried but they wouldn’t go higher. So we spent $900 which is not bad at all. So far, the car is fixed.
Probably helped that we had bought 4 new Subarus, 3 of them at this dealer.
Just been informed by an independent shop that my wife’s
2006 Subaru Forester, with 79,000 miles on it, has developed
a head gasket leak. It has some 25 oil changes on it plus the
30,000 and 60,000 maintenance, so it’s been pretty well
taken care of. When she bought the car new in ’06 she
paid for an Added Security Agreement, “New Gold Plus” (100,000 miles or 7 years) which expires March 3. Should that
cover the cost of fixing the HG leak without any argument
from the dealership service department?
I bought my 2003 Legacy L 2.5l wagon new. Religiously maintained. (Oil changes evry 2500 to 3000 miles, like my old GM’s and Chryslers, regular servicings, two sets of brake pads, two tune ups, one set of front and rear suspensions, and axles at 87000 when the cv boots went.) In 2010, I did the timing belt and water pump, and the dealership tried to sell m a short block on top. I’ve 91K miles on it now, and a small coolant leak on the left cylinder head. Subaru of America offered me an incentive towards a new vehicle – which is horse dung, on an engine that’s been meticulously maintained. I feel like a GM owner from the 1970s ’80s. What reputation for reliability ought Subaru to have? This is infuriating!
I got a 2001 Subaru Outback around Christmas. It has a little over 100,000 miles on it and it drives very well. However, I took it to my shop for an oil change and they found a leaky cylinder head gasket which I gather is a common problem with Subarus. I havnen’t noticed any problems with the car yet, but I know I need to get it repaired. They said it could cost up to $3500. I’ve been looking at other posts about head gasket replacement in the cost range of $2000. Why would mine be so much more? I’ve been going to this shop for a while and I trust them, but jeez! That’s a lot of money.
Thanks
Kate
Hi Mike,
We have just found a 2001 Outback w 103,000 miles, one-owner, well-maintained for sale at a Subaru dealer. I’ve read all this thread about the head gaskets and catalytic converters, etc. I noticed you said timing belt needed replacement at 105,000, so I am guessing this will soon need to be done. Car is offered at $6900.
Is the car worth buying? We’d probably want a lower price now that we are aware of how expensive repairs may be.
Anything we should do or pay attention to?
Good job Gary!
I think your persistence paid off. I also think that it shows the importance of putting it down in writing so they have to give you a formal answer.
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru Expert
Shoreline, WA
206-417-0880
Hello Michael,
The repair estimates are in the normal range of what I’ve seen. In my opinion, if the car was well maintained and you like it, it’s probably a good choice to have it repaired. You may not even need to do the head gaskets for quite some time. I would at least hold off until 105k miles if possible since you have to do a timing belt then anyway. If they’re leaking worse by then, that may be the time to move forward with the head gasket repair because of the overlapping labor on the timing belt job.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert
Seattle, Washington
http://www.smart-service.com
Hi Gary,
Without seeing the contract I’m only guessing but I believe Subaru Added Security to be the best coverage you could have purchased at that time. I’m betting they’ll take care of it for your deductible.
It’s nice to see a policy pay for itself.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert,
Shoreline, Washington
http://www.smart-service.com
Hi Kate,
Make sure you’re comparing apples to apples when you compare quotes. The $3500 may be a worst case scenario and the $2000 may be for just doing the gaskets only. If you are still unsure, get written estimates from both parties and compare them. If they’re not willing to give you a written estimate with details they may not be worth going to in the first place.
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru in Seattle
Hi Janice,
The price sounds reasonable if there isn’t much wrong with the car. I would take it to a reputable shop and have it inspected before signing on the bottom line. At that price I think it should have very littl wrong with it.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Repair in Seattle
Hey Mike,
Just bought a 98 Legacy Outback LTD with 206,876 miles on it. The head gaskets on this car actually made it to 206,798 Miles. Surprising I know! But anyway the guy I bought it from got it and replaced them. He changed the oil pan gaskets, the timing belt, spark plugs and wires, and the clutch pilot bearing. Driving down the highway coming home something blew. It blew some kind of liquid out the exhaust pipe, says my co-pilot driving behind me. Immediately the temp gauge went to H and was spewing coolant out of the radiator. The car would only go a few miles before over heating past the point of driveability. There was no heat in the cabin and we figured it needed a new thermostat. NOPE lol. The top radiator hose was hot while the bottom was ice cold. What do you think happened? Another headgasket failure?
My guess is first the thermostat failed but then the head gaskets went soon after. You may try a new thermostat and then properly burp the air out of the system. You may have been lucky but unfortunately odds aren’t in your favor.
Let me know how it works out.
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert
Thanks so much for the info! We have an ’08 Subaru Outback and the Head Gasket started leaking. We took it to the dealership and then I called Corporate. They offered to help only if I could send all the documentation for past maintenance on the car. Thankfully we keep a file for all that stuff. They decided to send us $1,000 towards the repair of our car. I LOVE Subaru! Thanks again.
Hi Mike,
First off thanks for taking the time to review all these comments.
I just bought a 2010 subaru impreza outback sport at a non-subaru dealership less than a week ago and was convinced to get service warranty for $2,000 for 36kmiles or 3yrs. Is it worth getting this warranty when the major problems come after the warranty expires and event then it seems like dealership mechanics dont really do the job right. Reading through now that HG are going to come up in the future and are really expensive. This is my first subaru and wanted to get a reliable car without much repair (coming from a 99 nissan altima that always had something wrong with it every couple month)
So i know you are pretty experienced in the timing of repairs on subarus do you think its a waste of money to get the sevice warranty?
Thanks Ana
Hi Anna,
Without seeing the contract I can’t tell you if it’s a good decision or not to have purchased the policy. If it’s a well written warranty that covers most everything then it could be a very good investment. I’ve also seen sham’s where the warranty actually covers very little once you read the fine print.
Take some time to familliarize yourself with the details. Some of them require maintenance records in the future and they can deny a repair claim if you don’t provide adequate documentation that the required maintenance was done.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Repair in Seattle
http://www.smart-service.com
I own a 2007 Impezza which I have maintained…not always at Subaru because the neighborhood station is more convenient. But the oil has been changed every 2500 to 3000 miles. I have under 34,000 miles on the car.
I recently had Subaru do an oil change for me and I was told the car needs two head gaskets. I was given a price of $1800 for the repair…extra if I have the belt replaced. Subaru has offered me $750 toward the repair. Even though the car is out of warrantee, it seems that Subaru should have offered more toward the repair. I should have done more homework before I purchased a Subaru. My last car was a Honda which had triple the amount of milage with absolutely NO repairs outside of brakes. What a mistake I made.
Anyone who purchases
Hi Larry,
Sorry to hear about the Impreza Head gaskets at such low miles. I’m glad that Subaru is helping some and hopefully after years of future driving you won’t feel as strongly that it was a mistake.
Take care
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert
http://www.smart-service.com
Hi Mike,
I just purchased a used 2002 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport with 83k miles private party. I just did an oil change at the dealership and they told me about the HG needing to be replaced. A couple notes, there is oil on the bottom of the car, but seems rather old. The car doesn’t overheat and I had to drive up a mountain highway after purchasing the car. The temp gauge stayed right where it should be. The coolant doesn’t look milky, but it is semi dark. The car does sputter at WOT so I’m going to replace the valve gasket, spark plug gasket, and plugs. Is there a chance that the oil is just leaking because of the valve gasket and not the HG?
Thanks in advance,
David
Hi David,
There have been many cases of misdiagnosed head gaskets. Subaru owners are so hypersensitive to this issue that many shops push the repair even long before it’s actually needed. Your valve cover theory may be correct in this case. For your peace of mind, I would suggest getting a second opinion as well as asking to see the details for yourself when the car is up on a hoist.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Expert
Seattle, WA
Mike, obviously the saga continues with the subaru gasket defects…2007 legacy..87000 miles..head and valve gaskets leaking…honestly have bought new cars for 50 years..first subaru…never seen a car with more maint probs, not even in the 70′s FixOrRepairDaily days! Dealer says gasket problem normal wear and tear at 87000…what a crock! Ready for 2nd or is it 3rd brake job..car Rarely exceeds 60 mph. Thought ours was one bad apple until hit your site..left aghast..somebody needs to hold subaru accountable…are you old enough to remember the Edsel…and what it did to Ford’s reputation…
2007 Legacy Wagon 2.5i “special edition”, 83K miles, headgasket failure. Dealer service schedule has been followed to the letter. Subaru offered $500, which is a little disappointing, but in reading threads like these, it seems the dealer’s cost for the repair + timing belt was about as low as it gets($1900). Working on getting the dealer to at least throw in something, but so far no luck.
Plan to keep the car for at least another 5 years, but even with Subaru’s good-will, will have to at least take a peek at other makes.
Hi Don,
Sorry to hear about the gaskets. Before getting to concerned, get a second opinion. Valve cover gaskets at 87000 miles would not be out of the ordinary but for the head gaskets it would seem a bit early. I wouldn’t be surprised if they are only oozing a bit and the shop wanted to point it our hoping you’d just do it all.
As far as comparing to earlier cars, the fact that they are getting 170 horsepower out of 151 cubic inches (2.5 liters) is amazing and powering a 3500 lb. car to boot. Back in the 70′s a smog equipped American with a 302 cubic inch engine barely produced that much not to mention how much constant work they needed.
Like you, I think we should be able to see the head gaskets last much longer than 87000 miles (if they actually are failing already) but overall I think a Subaru is a very good car for what it offers.
Take care and I hope you get that second opinion.
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Oh and by the way, I think if the Edsels actually looked better, people might have put up with the reliability problems… look at those Italian sports cars! People will put up with anything to drive them!
Hi Tim,
I’m glad Subaru is doing something to help with your head gaskets and I wish they could have done more. I can’t blame you for thinking of looking at the competition next time around but I still think that Subaru’s are hard to beat if the AWD is an important feature. I think if you really wanted to get something comparable you’d need to step up to the Audi AWD system.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
SMart Service
Independent Subaru Repair in Shoreline
Thank you for the most informative input. I am sorry to say, I am one of the owners of a Subaru Forester (2004) that has also been told I have a leaking head gasket. I have already taken care of timing belt, water pump, etc. back at 103,000 and now at 121,819 miles. I bought this car in 2009, and have faithfully maintained it, as well as the previous owner at the dealership. The cost appears flucuating for various owners for the repair. Mine being in the $1500 range, with an extra $100 for hose replacements. I have owned subaru’s since 1996. I love impreza’s but (had a 93) but purchased a forester for the AWD feature. Do you think Subaru’s with AWD attribute to the ongoing HG problems? Do you think Subaru will help extend any warranties for me?
Hi Bonnie,
Sorry to hear of your Forester’s head gasket problem. Before jumping into the repair or replacement of the head gaskets, find out how bad they are leaking and whether they are leaking oil or coolant or both.
If it is just a small oil leak the head gaskets may have many more miles before their replacement is needed. You can even ask them to raise the car up and show you the problem to be sure you’re not being taken.
The $1500 price is one of the lower one’s I’ve heard of but different parts of the country have different labor rates. I don’t think the AWD has anything to do with ongoing head gasket problems. I’ve written other posts about what I think may be part of the problem but these are only theories and not scientific facts.
As far as Subaru helping you, I think you have too high of mileage for them to do anything. It never hurts to ask though. Just call 1-800-SUBARU3 and explain your situation.
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Repair
Shoreline, WA
http://www.smart-service.com
Just took the car in a 5-6 yr old Outback (115k) in for the Catlytic Converter recall and smelled a burning smell (which i called and they said was normal) well it’s a week later and the burning smell is still there..but there’s also a small puddle of oil on the passengers side about where the wheel is (in terms of distance back) so…
1) could the catalytic converter warranty work be related to this new issue?
2) how likely is it this is the dreaded HG issue?
will check the oil level in morning and try to see where coming from…
Hi, I bought a suburb rx impreza 2001 second hand 6 weeks ago. It has done 150,000ks.. I have service history and has always been services through surbaru. (Last service was the day before purchase. Today however i heard a funny noise and looked and it was overheating. I stopped immediately and let it cool down. I put in coolant as it was empty in both reserves and radiator,,, it took a good 2 litres. Upon driving again i could only go 1k before it over heated again. Could you please help me find why this is doing this as there is no leaks and should not happen as ive only driven 2000ks since last service. I am thinking the worst
Hi Bob,
I doubt the cat converter is related to the burning smell. I would advise you to have the car put on a lift and look for any area of the engine that could be leaking oil down onto the exhaust system. This is the likely cause. It may or may not have anything to do with the head gaskets. The small puddle may actually be water if it’s by the RF Wheel. There is an AC drain in that area that drains condensation off of the evaporator.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
206-417-0880
Your Independent Subaru Expert
It could be possible that the water pump has frozen up. The water pump is driven by the timing belt and that could explain the noise prior to the overheating. If that is what is happening it won’t be long before it causes the timing belt to break so I would have it professionally inspected as soon as you can.
Good luck,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
Independent Subaru Repair
Shoreline, WA
http://www.smart-service.com