The most common problem with a Subaru Forester is a damaged head gasket. Even though Subaru is one of the famous automobile manufacturers, this problem of the faulty head gasket has plagued them for many years.
Whenever you start seeing frequent low coolant levels, white smoke emission from the tailpipe, rough running of the engine, overheating, and many more, then you are close to having a blown Subaru Forester head gasket.
In this article, we will be dealing with how to replace a Subaru Forester head gasket, why the head gasket is essential, the Subaru Forester head gasket replacement cost, and our list of the top 5 Subaru Forester head gasket replacement kits.
Table of Contents
Why the Head Gasket is Important for Subaru Forester
As with other vehicles, the head gasket is essential for the Subaru Forester because it acts as the seal between the cylinder head and the engine block, preventing pressure losses and engine fluid leaks.
The head gasket is a critical component that works as a separator between the engine block and the cylinder head. The engine block houses the cylinders and the pistons, while the cylinder head houses other components like spark plugs, valves, etc.
It seals the internal combustion process and confines it within the engine so that each fluid (oil and fuel) will have a separate route to its destination. Compression is needed to generate engine power, and the head gasket seals off the chamber to build the required compression.
In addition, it keeps coolant and oil confined in their spaces without leaking to other regions so that your engine will be held in optimal conditions without catching fire or overheating. Finally, most manufacturers use a thin layer of steel in building head gaskets to make them sustainable and durable.
Steel material has the needed properties to achieve these functions; its lightness and rigidity will reduce the car weight, making the car lighter as desired by many car owners today. However, to understand how the head gasket works, you must first acquaint yourself with how a car engine works.
Pistons in the engine block move up and down and are connected to the rotating crankshaft. As the crankshaft and piston synchronize in movement, power is generated, and the valves in the cylinder head open to allow passage of both air and fuel continuously.
The head gasket then ensures that the compression generated by the ignition of the air-fuel mixture is trapped inside the combustion chamber. By this, your engine works smoothly and generates enough power to move your car.
What Is The Average Cost for Subaru Forester Head Gasket Replacement?
Before you talk of replacement, you should consider the possibility of repairing the Subaru Forester head gasket. Although, since the head gasket problem is the most popular with Subaru Forester, the best choice will be to replace it entirely and have a smooth-running engine.
Many factors determine the replacement cost, including the engine configuration and the manufacturing year. Of course, Subaru Forester has different models with their respective designs and prices for replacing the head gasket.
Repairs range from $1,600 to $1,700 for labor cost, while an additional $700 will be needed for other components as you may need to change alongside the head gasket. An automatic transmission car can cost between $2,500 to $2,700 for repairs, while manual cars between $2,700 to $3100.
Total replacement of Subaru Forester head gasket starts from around $1,200 to over $3,000, depending on other components that may have to be replaced alongside the head gasket for better efficiency. With proper usage, your Subaru Forester head gasket has a useful life of 100,000 to 150,000 miles.
So, even if you use it well, it only takes some time before you are compelled to replace it. Getting a quality aftermarket head gasket will also buy you the same amount of time. Check out our section on the top 5 Subaru Forester head gasket kits.
How To Replace Subaru Forester Head Gasket?
It is possible to replace the bad head gasket yourself; if you are a DIY car owner, rather than spend much at a mechanic workshop, you will be saving a lot by doing it yourself. However, you can only do this if you are a professional mechanic because it takes more than watching a video to achieve excellent results.
To replace your Subaru Forester Head Gasket, you will need the tools listed below:
- Jack stand and a floor jack
- Torque angle gauge
- Torque wrench
- Socket sets
- Socket set extensions
- 3mm Allen key (Long shaft)
- Needle nose pliers and screwdrivers
- Head bolts
- Permanent marker
Additionally, these parts may be needed, depending on their condition while replacing the head gasket.
- Timing belt
- Water pump
- Cogged idler pulley
- Sparkplugs
- Smooth lower idler pulley
- Smooth upper idler pulley
- Lower radiator hoses
- Upper radiator hoses
- Hydraulic tensioner pulley assembly
Again, we must reiterate that replacing a bad head gasket is a complex thing that only professionals can do excellently.
- It begins with cleaning the valve ports and checking them to ensure no buildups are in them.
- Then, look for the engine oil and detect its consumption rate to know if it is going well.
- After this, you need to remove the engine or prop it up so high with the jack stands so that you can access the underneath of your car.
Professional workshops take two to three days to replace a head gasket completely. This includes the time to road test the car after replacement. Some car professionals have to machine parts of your car engine to achieve a faster result when dealing with a challenging or complex car engine. You should ensure and check that such processes have not affected other parts of your car’s engine.
Top 5 Subaru Forester Head Gasket Replacement Kit
Since the Subaru Forester head gasket problem is the most common, you can expect many manufacturers to have taken the opportunity to proffer solutions. Therefore, we have developed the Top 5 Subaru Forester Head Gasket Replacement kits that can serve you.
With this, you can avoid any confusion and be confident about what you buy in the market. Find below the best five head gasket for your Subaru Forester head gasket.
- FEL-PRO Head Gasket set (HS 26170 PT-1)
- DNJ HGS724 MLS Subaru Forester Head Gasket
- Evergreen Head Gasket Set Bolts Lifter (HSHBLF9002)
- ITM Engine Components Cylinder Head Gasket (09-10834)
- DNJ HGS715 MLS Subaru Forester Head Gasket
FEL-PRO Head Gasket set (HS 26170 PT-1)
The FEL-PRO head gasket has become a household name among Subaru Forester users because of its outstanding qualities. It has a sturdy frame that prevents coolant and other lubricants from getting into the head cylinder.
Asides from this, it has a protective layer that can withstand extreme temperatures. You can almost guess the material it is made of- steel, with adequate properties needed to contain the heat generated. However, you will not find any instruction on its usage for DIY car owners.
However, professionals are equipped to use these products because it is very efficient. Though it is an aftermarket product, many car owners have reported that it works just like the one from the factory, and is superior to stock head gaskets made between 2005 and 2006.
The FEL-PRO is one of the best Subaru Forester head gaskets out there because it has undergone many tests before coming to the market. So, we recommend you get it as a replacement for your Subaru Forester head gasket.
Features / Specification
- Heat resistant
- Tight seal system
- Protective layer
Pros
- Durable
- Premium quality
- It prevents coolant leaks
- Coated in multi-layer steel
- Excellent OEM replacement
- Unique combustion seal
Cons
- It is not suitable for race cars.
- It does not come with instructions for installation.
DNJ HGS724 MLS Subaru Forester Head Gasket
The DNJ HGS724 MLS Subaru Forester Head Gasket is all about performance. So, if you desire excellent performance, go for this head gasket. It is both efficient and heat resistant to replace your factory-installed Subaru Forester head gasket.
It boasts of an additional layer of protection for more durability when installed. Like the popular FEL-PRO, it has multi-layer steel. This material gives it the temperature-resistant property needed in every head gasket to keep the combustion pressure in its place.
Although it might not work for other Subaru brands, it works well for the Forester and retains its shape under high pressure. In addition, users are happy with this head gasket because it functions just like the OEM.
It perfectly replaces the 2.5L engine even after exceeding 100,000 miles. Many other head gaskets loosen up after replacing the original; this is not so for this head gasket; it stays in place for a long while.
The DNJ brand has been around for more than three decades and is a premium quality head gasket well known for its build quality. It will not disappoint you as a replacement for your blown Subaru Forester head gasket.
Features / Specification
- Anti-leaking system
- Multi-layer steel material
- Reinforced protective shield
Pros
- Sturdy build quality
- Similar to your OEM
- Prevents fluids from leaking
- Efficient and heat resistant
- Valve grind kit
Cons
- It does not include a sealer
- It does not fit other Subaru brands
Evergreen Head Gasket Set Bolts Lifter (HSHBLF9002)
Not many head gasket boosts matching quality with OEM parts; the Evergreen head gasket is one of those few. This particular head gasket is similar to the first two we covered. The significant difference is the material used to make it (Graphite); the head gasket itself is made of graphite and is accompanied by other accessories like the O-rings, Intake gasket, etc.
Although customers complain about having too many tools accompanying the product yet, this is less of a complaint but rather an addition to the brand name in ensuring you have all you need- nothing missing.
The exceptional build quality of this product makes it desirable to many customers because it is also affordable and a convenient option for those who cannot afford the expensive ones without sacrificing quality. Moreover, after a correct installation, you do not need to constantly check up on this product because it retains its position and shape for a long time.
Features / Specification
- Excellent sealing system
- Graphite head gasket
- Not burned easily
Pros
- It works like the OEM stock parts
- It holds up very well under pressure
- It can withstand high temperature and heat
- Includes several parts for replacement
- Boosts the car’s performance
Cons
- It does not come with instructions for installation
ITM Engine Components Cylinder Head Gasket (09-10834)
The ITM Engine Components Cylinder Head Gasket (09-10834) is one of the best because it is similar to OE. It offers stunning built quality, stability, and durability. It is made from European and Japanese materials, and this product is one of the top products in the market today.
When buying head gaskets in the market, professionals recommend those made with Japanese materials; this is what makes this your go-to head gasket. In addition, the high-temperature sealant cover makes it withstand extreme temperature at points when other knock-off products fail.
The ITM head gasket is eco-friendly. It complies with the environmental regulations and is not harmful to the environment like many other models that boost the same qualities. However, it is quite different from the first three that we have highlighted because it is a composite head gasket; the first three are made with multi-layer steel.It holds up your coolant, oil, and gasoline well because it is very resistant to failure. Also, it is an affordable head gasket when you do not want to spend much on head gasket replacement.
Features / Specification
- Composite head gasket
- Use Japanese parts
- Eco friendly
Pros
- Fairly easy to install
- Similar OEM performance
- It does not compromise performance
- It can withstand high pressure
- It holds up coolant, oil, and gasoline very well
Cons
- It is not compatible with all Subaru cars
DNJ HGS715 MLS Subaru Forester Head Gasket
The well-known brand DNJ produces one of the best quality head gaskets in the market. A perfect Japanese replacement for your failed gasket. Also, it is a close match with the OE head gasket, and it is an ideal fit for the 2.5L engine.
The 2.5L is the worst engine made by Subaru because it blows off frequently; this DNJ HGS715 MLS Subaru Forester Head Gasket is a perfect replacement for it. Although this product does not come with an intake gasket, it comes with a valve grind set that you can use.
Features / Specification
- Shield against heat
- It fully supports a 2.5L engine
- Similar to OEM
Pros
- Prevents any leakage
- No cheap feel
- Excellent build quality
- OEM-like performance
- Car smoothness is enhanced
Cons
- The water pump gasket is absent
FAQ
What are the consequences of a broken head gasket?
If your head gasket is broken, it allows part of the air-fuel combustion pressure to escape, leading to a reduction in engine power. As a result, the engine struggles to run and is accompanied by an exhaust leak sound.
What happens if the coolant leaks from the vehicle?
When coolant leaks from your vehicle, it could result from a hole in your radiator, which leads to a low coolant level with a decreased cooling in your engine. Your engine may die from overheating.
Is It Easy to Replace the Subaru Forester Head Gasket?
It takes about two to three days to replace a Subaru Forester head gasket, thus showing the level of complexity involved. Although, this time includes the time it takes to road test the car and ensures the installation is perfect.
It is not advisable to fix the Forester Subaru head gasket yourself. Of all head gaskets in the market, it has a common problem that you do not want to blame yourself as a DIY car owner.
Wrapping Up
Many symptoms come up before the total failure of your Subaru Forester head gasket, some of which include: oil leaks, decreased cooling, engine overheating, and so on. Therefore, you should watch out for these symptoms before total failure so that you will not be stranded someday.
Subaru Forester Head Gasket Replacement Cost is relatively high and is not something you want to do all the time. Read our section on our list of the top 5 Subaru Forester head gasket kits and pick the one that suits your budget for something similar to the stock part from the manufacturer.
