Hoover Street Auto RepairFrequently Asked Questions about Subaru Head Gasket Replacement in Ann Arbor MI.
Our Subaru technicians at Hoover Street Auto Repair have put together a list of frequently asked questions to help you make informed decisions about Subaru head gasket repair.
Please see this this page for information about our Subaru head gasket replacement service.
How Can I Tell If my Subaru Needs Head Gaskets Replaced?
The first hint is usually oil leaks and a burning oil smell, eventually oil dripping on your driveway. Then the coolant level starts gradually dropping with coolant leaks and puddles on the ground. If you don't notice the coolant leaks and dropping coolant level an engine overheat warning light will eventually indicate a problem. Unfortunately waiting until the overheat light comes can cause damage to the engine and various cooling system parts which greatly increases the cost of Subaru head gasket replacement.
What Is Included?
Subaru Head Gasket Replacement includes cylinder head resurface machining, new head gaskets, new cylinder head bolts, new engine thermostat and gasket, new valve cover gaskets, new exhaust gaskets, new coolant, and an oil and oil filter change.
How Long Will The Repair Take?
In most cases, a Subaru head gasket repair takes two to three days depending on parts availability and how quickly the machine shop refinishes the cylinder heads. This gives our Subaru technicians time to repair the vehicle, road test it, and do a final quality assurance inspection.
What Repairs Should I Consider Doing At The Same Time?
There are other high wear parts that should be replaced at the same time as a Subaru head gasket replacement. Since replacing these parts often requires engine removal and disassembly, replacing these parts at the same time as the head gaskets is good value since 90% of the labor has already been done.
If the following parts haven't been replaced recently, we strongly recommend replacing the following parts at the same time as head gasket replacement: timing belt, timing belt tensioner, timing belt idlers, crankshaft oil seal, and camshaft oil seal, water pump replacement, old deteriorated coolant hoses, spark plug replacement, engine sensor replacement, and an updated steel oil separator baffle plate if the old one is plastic or aluminum, or is leaking.
What Does Subaru Head Gasket Replacement Cost?
The cost of Subaru Head Gasket Replacement depends on the age, model, options, general engine condition, and mileage of the vehicle. We can provide a free head gasket replacement cost estimate.
Is it worth fixing Subaru Head gaskets?
The Cost Is More Than The Value Of My Car! Should I Fix It? Your Subaru may be worth more than you think! Subaru was named the number one vehicle brand for retaining their value. Repairing your Subaru may be more economical than replacing the vehicle.
The technicians at the Hoover Street Auto Repair will always be honest about whether or not your car is worth fixing. We will always help you make an informed decision.
We use a very simple formula to determine whether your Subaru is worth fixing. Add the salvage value ('as is' value) of the car without fixing it to the cost of the repair, then ask yourself if you could buy a replacement vehicle of equal condition and value with this amount of money? Keep in mind you know the history of your vehicle. If you buy another used vehicle for this amount you don't know if it has any hidden problems... People usually sell used vehicles for a reason. Most of them not good!
How Long Will A New Head Gasket Repair Last?
The original head gaskets on a Subaru engine have a life between 100,000 and 150,000 miles. Most replacement head gaskets last just as long. Regular coolant replacement and thermostat replacement can help prolong Subaru head gasket life.
Will The Repair Cause Other Problems For My Subaru?
Head gasket replacement should not cause any problems, if done well.
The biggest source of post head gasket problems are with other cooling system parts that should have been replaced at the same time as the head gaskets. This is a job where it should be done correctly, or not at all!
Many engine parts have a specific life and usually fail at roughly the same time. This way it seems like everything goes wrong at the same time. They have been designed so they can be replaced at the same time to save on labor cost.
If these parts are not replaced it is just a matter of time before they fail after the head gaskets are replaced. This has nothing to do with the new head gaskets.
Also, if the engine has been overheated many of the cooling system parts are damaged and will malfunction or fail soon after.
Have More Questions?
If you have questions about Subaru head gasket repair, or are ready to make an appointment, contact Hoover Street Auto Repair today.
Our Subaru mechanics have the expertise to get your Subaru back on the road as quickly as possible.