How do I replace the head gasket on my '98 Subaru Forester?

Question

I got an estimate from the local Subaru dealership.... $3120.00. We didn't pay much more than that for the car! Anyone know how to fix this (or know any alternatives) or would you suggest pushing it off a cliff?

Answer 1

First, you need to figure out what caused the problem in the first place, because just replacing parts won't prevent the problem from returning later. Do you know which of the two heads is the problem?? Buy a Haynes manual and get busy!!! There is probably a lot of room under the hood of your Forester to work with. Start with a good shampooing of the engine compartment at a do-it-yourself car wash. Has your engine ever been overheated?? Usually an overheat will cause a head gasket to go bad because of a faulty fan switch or temp sensor. There is a product at most of the large chain auto parts stores that can reseal a leaking head gasket without removing the head. You should be using only Subaru anti-freeze in this car, as the regular "green" stuff used in most American cars is too caustic to aluminum parts and may be the cause of your leaking head gasket. I've seen Japanese heads that look like Swiss cheese because the owner used improper coolant. I wouldn't change the head gasket unless you were totally sure that nothing else would help, but you can do it yourself if you are determined enough. A Subaru properly maintained should last for 250,000 miles or more, with proper attention. Good Luck!!!

Answer 2

Subaru Forester Head Gasket Replacement

Answer 3

The reason it is so expensive is because it is a boxer engine and the heads are up almost against the wheel wells. Therefore the engine has to pulled out of the car and disassembled. Buying a new motor will do you no good because you would still incur near the same expense to buy the new one, pull the old one and put the new one in. Parts for headgaskets replacement are only like $3-400 bucks, it's the labor that kills. Yes, all older Subarus are notorious for this, it's just their boxer design and the oem gasket. If you replace them with the new better gaskets, and the heads aren't warped, the engine will run another 100k or more easily.

Answer 4

If that includes quality OEM parts, three grand sounds fair (if it includes new tires and an alignment). Never do just one head gasket on a 96-99 2.5, or you'll be back in there soon for the other side, make sure both are getting done and that the heads are machined. Also consider a new water pump, at that mileage, and the possibility that some idler pulleys and/or tensioner may be worn out, clutch as well if manual. Oil pans rarely leak on these. The only red flag I see is the oil pump seal leak, you wouldn't know that for sure unless it was tore down. I'd hinge this on how much you trust the guy, and think your final bill may be a tad higher than three.

Answer 5

There are two heads on the Subaru - so two head gaskets - just like a V8. Conceptually it is not difficult, but you need the correct tools - which will run you close to $1000- if you don't have them.

Purchase a shop manual for your engine, and then decide if you want to tackle it. You are not likely to find anyone to do it for less than $2K.

Answer 6

Option 1: Pull the engine and buy a gasket set.
Option 2: Take it to a cheaper shop

Answer 7

If the head gasket needs replaced you would be better pushing it off a cliff. Unless your really good with cars and can fix things yourself or you know someone who can help you out.

Answer 8

98 Forester

Answer 9

The dealership is not the best place to get it fixed or there and some local garages to get it fixed. Some one you can trust. No matter where you go I bet it is going to to 2000 or so.

It might be time to get a new car.

Answer 10

Find an independent repair shop and get an estimate. There is also a possibility that the head is junk which increases the cost of the repair.