Can you drive a Subaru with a blown head gasket?
A blown head gasket is a serious engine problem, and in most cases you should not drive a Subaru with it. The safest option is to have the car towed to a qualified shop for a proper diagnosis and repair.
What a blown head gasket means for your Subaru
When the head gasket fails, coolant and oil can mix or leak into the combustion chamber, or coolant can leak into the cooling system and cause overheating. Subaru engines, especially older EJ and certain FB/FA designs, are prone to gasket-related failures when they overheat or accumulate mileage. Driving with a blown gasket risks warped cylinder heads, cracked blocks, and severe engine damage that can far exceed the cost of the repair.
Warning signs you might be dealing with a blown head gasket include the following symptoms. If you notice any of these, stop driving and seek a tow or roadside assistance.
- Persistent overheating or rapid temperature spikes
- White smoke or steam from the exhaust with a sweet smell
- Milky or frothy oil, or oil that looks contaminated by coolant
- Unexplained loss of coolant with no visible leaks
- Bubbles in the radiator or coolant reservoir
- Loss of engine power, rough idle, or frequent misfires
- Check engine light or codes related to misfire, coolant leak, or compression
These indicators point toward a gasket issue, but a professional diagnostic—often including compression tests and a leak-down test—is necessary to confirm the problem and determine the extent of damage.
What to do if you suspect a blown head gasket
Acting quickly can prevent further damage. Use the following steps to safely handle the situation and minimize risk to the engine.
- Do not drive the vehicle more than necessary. If you’re on the road, pull over safely and arrange for towing.
- Turn off the engine if it’s overheating and let it cool before inspecting, but do not attempt to open the radiator cap when hot.
- Check fluid levels and look for signs of coolant in the oil or oil contamination, but avoid prying into sealed areas.
- Call a tow service or roadside assistance and take the car to a reputable Subaru specialist or dealership for a confirmed diagnosis and repair estimate.
A professional diagnosis is essential because a blown head gasket often signals other cooling or engine issues. Early, careful diagnosis can help limit additional damage and set expectations for repair scope and cost.
Repair options and cost expectations
Costs vary by model, the extent of damage, and labor rates. The following ranges reflect typical scenarios for a head gasket replacement on a Subaru, including common related components and services.
- Gasket replacement and basic service (labor-intensive; may include timing belt/water pump, hoses, coolant): roughly $1,500 to $3,000+
- More extensive repairs (engine head resurfacing or machining, gasket kit, additional gaskets, and parts): often $2,500 to $4,500+, depending on the model and damage
- Head replacement or significant engine work due to warped heads or damaged cylinders: $4,000 to $6,000+ and potentially higher in some cases
These estimates can vary widely by model year, local labor rates, and the shop’s diagnostic findings. It’s important to obtain multiple written quotes and confirm what’s included (gasket kit, timing components, machining, coolant, oil, labor hours, and any needed head bolts or bolts replacement).
Bottom line
Driving a Subaru with a blown head gasket is ill-advised because it can quickly lead to severe engine damage. If you suspect a gasket issue, prioritize safety, avoid driving, and get a tow to a qualified Subaru technician for a definitive diagnosis and an itemized repair plan. With prompt attention, you can prevent catastrophic failures and better control costs.
Summary
A blown head gasket is a serious fault that commonly causes coolant/oil contamination and overheating in Subarus. Do not drive the car; tow it to a qualified shop for diagnosis. Expect substantial repair costs that reflect the labor-intensive nature of head gasket work and the potential for additional engine damage. Early diagnosis and professional repair are essential to preserving the engine’s longevity.
