By Justin Stobb on February 19th, 2010
Subaru Changed Their Head Gasket For The 2010 2.5L
I wanted to post a few pictures and let everyone know that Subaru has finally changed the head gasket design for the 2010 models 2.5L N/A (Naturally Aspirated) models.
The gasket pictured below resembles the Head Gasket used in the Turbo models, the Tribeca, as well as the 2nd generation 2.2l and the updated gasket for the 1st generation 2.5L (I know there’s a lot to follow there).
The new gasket is not interchangeable with the older model 2.5L engines. But it proves what I have been stating all along, a MLS (Multi Layer Shim) gasket is what is needed!
Thanks for reading
Justin
[...] It is, however, not interchangeable with the older model 2.5 engines. Details and pics here: Subaru Changed There Head Gasket For The 2010 2.5L – Seattle Subaru Repair __________________ -Silke 04 FXT PP PSM ~ "Subed" 98 Forester S ~ [...]
WOW! I wish you guys where here in NEW YORK, it was the answer all along the MLS, like the COMETIC branded head gaskets.
Is this used for all 2010 Subaru Forester?
Hi Mike,
I am still looking into that as of right now. As I know more I will post more information.
Justin
Can anyone tell me what a non dealer cost would be to replace the valve cover gasket for a 2004 subaru impreza outback with 127,000 mi running on synthetic oil since purchase. I’m losing 1 qt per 6000mi run. Dealer wants $1600
I gotta admit, this gasket issue is making me think twice about pulling the trigger on a 2010 Forester. I get a discount on Subarus, but until recently was unaware of this issue. I’d feel better if someone could tell me the 2010 design had changed for all Foresters and was a good fix.
Darrell, unfortunately the only true test is time. Hopefully this will clear the EJ25 engines once and for all of the headgasket problem. Then, Subarus would probably be one of the most reliable and dependable cars around.
Justin,
I’m curious if you were able to visually confirm the semi-closed deck on the 2010 and later OB/Legacy ej253 engines?
Hi Jordan
I had a core lined up but the wrecking yard decided to do something else with it. I can buy a running used engine but it just isn’t in the budget right now.
I have a request for a damaged engine but one hasn’t surfaced as of yet.
Justin
I have a 2009 Outback Limited 2.5l. I have read that this head gasket problem had been solved for the 2005 – 2009 Outbacks. Is this the case?
Its the Same gasket From late 2002 all they way until 2009, so I don’t know that I would say its resolved until 2010 when they Finally went to a MLS type Gasket in the 2110 Outback
Justin
[...] has been addressed. I found the following website too, but it's not as informative as the video: Subaru Changed Their Head Gasket For The 2010 2.5L – Seattle Subaru Repair Thanks again for the [...]
[...] 2009 this ended Subaru's need to change coolant and add stop-leak conditioner every 30,000 miles. Subaru Changed Their Head Gasket For The 2010 2.5L – Seattle Subaru Repair Super Blue coolant may retain its corrosion resistance, water pump lubrication, etc., for 105,000 [...]
Justin,
It looks like the new gaskets being used in the 2010+ Outbacks/Legacys is the same gasket used in some of the previous/current turbo models. What do you think the chances are of Subaru just using this gasket on the open block design as some internet forum posts say thats ok to do?
I recently purchased a 2011 Legacy as I thought the gasket problem was fixed in 05. I’m really glad I found this post to say the least. It sounds like the multi layer gasket in of itself gives me some relief even if its not a semi closed setup, but I hope it is!
If I ever have a problem I’ll be making the drive to your shop!
Yes the 2010 uses a MLS gasket.
We dont repair to many head gasket issues on the Turbo models even with the intense heat and conditions of the turbo.
Justin
[...] the 2010+ Outback Legacys but you can read all his other blogs and articles while you're there. Subaru Changed Their Head Gasket For The 2010 2.5L – Seattle Subaru Repair Here is a video explanation of the 2010 as well. YouTube – Subaru Owner Tips: Subaru [...]
Justin,
Thanks for the information (saw this on SubaruOutback.org).
Are there any aftermarket replacements that are more reliable for the 2000-2004 Phase SOHC 2.5 liter, or are owners of Subarus with those engines stuck with using the OEM Subaru head gasket?
We use the Six Star Gasket. If you do a search on our website you will see some posts about the gaskets.
Justin
[...] lean towards a 2010+ model based on the MLS headgasket installed in them: Subaru Changed Their Head Gasket For The 2010 2.5L – Seattle Subaru Repair Other than that there's not much to it, just get the options you want. Honestly any year is going [...]