How much does it cost to fix a Subaru blown head gasket?
Typical repair costs for a blown head gasket on a Subaru fall around $2,000–$4,000 at an independent shop, with dealer quotes often higher; complex cases can exceed $5,000. Costs vary by engine type and extent of work.
Blown head gaskets require removing the engine head, inspecting for warpage or damage, replacing gaskets and seals, and possibly machining the heads or replacing accompanying components such as the water pump or timing belt. Prices depend on the engine family (2.5L vs 2.0L turbo) and whether additional repairs are needed.
What drives the price
Several factors influence the total bill. The list below highlights the major cost drivers you’ll encounter when getting a quote.
- Engine type and model year (2.5L non-turbo vs. 2.0L turbo) and whether heads require machining
- Labor rates in your region and the shop type (independent shop vs. dealership)
- Whether additional items are replaced during the service (water pump, thermostat, timing belt/chain, seals, valve cover gaskets)
- Extent of damage discovered during teardown (head warpage, cracks, warped deck, or damaged cylinders)
- Need for specialized services (cylinder head resurfacing, valve work, or replacement heads)
Understanding these drivers helps you compare quotes and budget accordingly.
Typical cost ranges
Prices vary by engine and whether you include related maintenance items. The ranges below are common for gasket replacement work performed by independent shops and, less often, dealerships.
- Subaru 2.5L non-turbo engines (EJ25/FA25 family): typically about $1,800–$3,500 for gasket replacement; with head resurfacing or more extensive work, $3,000–$4,000+
- Subaru 2.0L turbo engines (WRX/STI): typically $2,500–$4,600, higher if heads or timing components need work
- Engine replacement or major head work (if the heads are cracked or the engine block is damaged): often $4,000–$9,000 or more
Notes: These figures include parts, fluids, and labor, and assume no pre-existing extensive damage. Always request a detailed itemized estimate.
What’s included in the repair
During a head gasket replacement, shops typically replace gaskets and seals and may address related components. The list below shows common inclusions.
- New cylinder head gasket set for both heads, plus o-rings and valve seals
- New head bolts or studs (per manufacturer specifications)
- Coolant, engine oil, and required flushes
- Timing components if they are worn or due for replacement
- Water pump, thermostat, and other cooling system parts as preventive maintenance
- Head resurfacing or valve work if warpage or damage is found
- New spark plugs and valve cover gaskets in some cases
Most shops will propose additional maintenance items to prevent future issues based on the car’s age and condition.
Cost-saving tips and how to get a fair quote
To avoid surprises and manage costs, consider these approaches before authorizing the work.
- Obtain multiple quotes from reputable independent shops and ask for a detailed line-by-line estimate
- Ask whether the heads will be machined and whether both heads will be inspected for cracks or warpage
- Request that essential components (water pump, timing belt/chain, thermostat) be included if due for replacement
- Inquire about a workmanship warranty and what it covers
- Check for any additional fees (core charges, disposal, shop supplies)
Following these tips can help you secure a transparent estimate and prevent cost creep.
What to do if your Subaru has a suspected head gasket failure
If you suspect a blown head gasket, avoid driving the car long distances and seek a diagnostic from a trusted shop. They will typically perform compression tests, leak-down tests, coolant system pressure checks, and perhaps a dye test to confirm the failure. Obtain a written estimate before authorizing work and consider a second opinion if a quote seems unusually high or low.
Summary
For most Subarus, you can expect a head gasket replacement to cost roughly $2,000 to $4,000 at an independent shop, with turbo engines or cases that require machine work or a head replacement pushing higher. Always compare multiple quotes, clarify what is included, and budget for related maintenance to ensure the repair is durable and avoids repeat failures.
