When Did Subaru Fix The Head Gasket Issue?

Subaru’s head gasket issue has been a persistent problem for the automaker, causing headaches for both car owners and mechanics alike.

For years, Subaru struggled to find a solution, leading to frustration and disappointment among its loyal customers.

But when did Subaru finally fix the notorious head gasket problem?

In this blog post, we will explore the history of the issue, the steps taken to address it, and when Subaru finally managed to solve the problem for good.

When Did Subaru Fix The Head Gasket Issue?

Subaru owners were plagued by head gasket issues for many years, particularly in certain models manufactured in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

However, precise timing varies by model and production year. The company gradually made material and design changes to the head gasket to eliminate the recurring problem.

In 2006, Subaru introduced a redesigned 2.5-liter engine with improved components, including a multi-layer steel (MLS) head gasket, which greatly reduced the head gasket blowout rate.

This period marked the end of major head gasket issues in most Subaru models. 

However, it is still common for older Subaru engines to require gasket replacements, especially if they have high mileage or haven’t been maintained.

Regular maintenance and thorough inspections can mitigate the effects of head gasket problems by diagnosing issues before they become severe.

Exploring The History Of Subaru’s Head Gasket Issue And Its Impact On The Brand’s Reputation.

Subaru’s head gasket issue is a well-known problem that has impacted the brand’s reputation.

The problem affects several Subaru models, with the most common engine being the naturally aspirated 2.5L four-cylinder engine, known as the EJ25 motor.

The problem years are primarily 1996 through 2004. The problem with the head gasket has been attributed to the use of unreliable material in the gaskets and the design of the engine.

The gaskets were initially faulty composite-style gaskets that tended to fail. The graphite-coated gaskets have been identified as the cause of the head gasket failures.

However, newer models, such as those with the Multi-Layer Steel head gasket, have been found to be much more reliable.

The head gasket problem has led to significant repair costs for owners, with an average replacement cost of $2,000 to $4,000.

The labor alone can account for $1,200 to $3,000 of that bill, with parts ranging from $800 to $1,500, especially when additional components such as tensioners, idlers, water pumps, timing belts, and seals need replacement.

The issue has had a significant impact on Subaru’s reputation. The head gasket problem has been well-documented, and it has led to concerns about the reliability of Subaru vehicles

Technical Reasons Behind Subaru’s Head Gasket Problem And How It Was Resolved.

Subaru’s head gasket problem refers to the common issue of head gasket failure in the EJ25 engine, It is a naturally aspirated (non-turbo) 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine used in several Subaru models. 

This problem occurred primarily between 1996 and 2004, and it affected some Subaru models more than others.

Here is an overview of the technical reasons behind the head gasket problem and how it was resolved.

Technical Reasons for the Head Gasket Problem

There are several technical reasons behind Subaru’s head gasket problem. One contributing factor is the unreliable material used in the gaskets.

Initially, these engines had faulty composite-style gaskets, which were prone to failure. 

Additionally, the boxer engine layout used in Subaru vehicles makes it difficult for fluids to drain below the head gasket level when the engine is switched off, which can cause the fluids to rest against the head gasket and eat away at the metal over time.

Another factor is the design of the engine. The SOHC (single overhead camshaft) variant of the EJ25 engine experiences head gasket failures much more frequently than the DOHC (dual overhead camshaft) design. 

The SOHC engine has a lower profile, which means that there is less space between the top of the pistons and the bottom of the head gasket.

This makes the gasket more prone to failure due to increased pressure and heat.

Models Affected by the Head Gasket Problem

The Subaru models most commonly affected by head gasket problems include the Impreza, Forester, Legacy, and Outback.

These vehicles are primarily equipped with the EJ25 engine, which is known for its head gasket issues.

Resolving the Head Gasket Problem

Subaru has made efforts to resolve the head gasket problem over the years. By 2003-2004, the head gasket problem on non-turbo 4-cylinder models was finally resolved. 

The six-cylinder engines are essentially bullet-proof and have shown no indication of head gasket problems.

The newer models use improved materials for their head gaskets, which are less prone to failure. 

Additionally, Subaru started using metal turbo gaskets in their non-turbo models, which solves the problem forever.

Frequently Asked Question

Conclusion:

Subaru’s head gasket issue was a significant problem for many years, but the automaker took steps to address the issue and improve the reliability of their vehicles.

Today, Subaru owners can feel confident that their cars are built to last, with a lower risk of head gasket failure.

As with any vehicle, proper maintenance, and timely repairs are still necessary to ensure the longevity of the engine.

However, Subaru has taken significant steps to address the head gasket issue, giving their customers peace of mind and a reliable driving experience.