How much does it cost to fix an oil leak on a Subaru?

Most Subaru oil-leak repairs fall in the hundreds to low thousands of dollars range. A typical valve-cover or oil-pan gasket fix might run about $300–$900, while more extensive leaks such as the rear-main seal can push costs past $1,000.

Oil leaks in Subarus come from several common sources, and prices depend on the model year, engine family (for example EJ vs FA/FB engines), access, and whether you go through a dealer or an independent shop. The following guide outlines typical sources and price ranges used by repair shops in the U.S. as of 2024–2025.

Common sources of oil leaks on Subaru models

Below are the leaks most frequently encountered in Subaru engines, with typical price ranges for parts and labor. The numbers assume a standard labor rate and do not include tax or potential shop fees.

• Valve-cover gasket leaks: roughly $200–$700 for parts and labor; dealer quotes can push toward $800–$1,000 depending on access and engine design. Labor is usually 1.5–3 hours.


• Oil-pan gasket leaks: typically $350–$900 total, with 2–4 hours of labor; some late-model Subarus may be more labor-intensive and reach $1,000 or more.


• Oil filter housing gasket leaks: commonly $120–$350 for parts and labor; more if access requires additional components.


• PCV valve and related hoses/grommets: often $150–$350, with a simple swap. If multiple hoses are replaced, totals can climb to $400–$500.


• Oil cooler lines/hoses leaks: usually $400–$1,200 depending on the line(s) and whether coolant hoses are involved; some repairs require engine access that adds labor time.


• Rear-main seal leaks: typically $800–$1,500, sometimes higher if engine removal or significant disassembly is needed. Labor often 4–8 hours or more depending on the engine family.


• Timing cover or cam-seal leaks (less common but possible): commonly $800–$2,000 when timing assembly access or engine removal is needed; costs vary by engine type and service complexity.

Prices can vary significantly by model, year, and region. Always obtain a written estimate after diagnosis, including parts options (OEM vs aftermarket) and labor hours.

Diagnosing an oil leak

Before committing to a repair, a shop typically performs a diagnostic to locate the precise leak source, sometimes using UV dye or pressure tests. Diagnostic fees may range from $50–$150, or may be waived if you proceed with the repair.

Think about a belt-and-suspenders approach: sometimes one source leaks oil that masks another; a comprehensive diagnosis helps avoid multiple repairs later.

What affects the cost

Several factors influence final price, from where you live to the engine type and repair complexity. Here are the main cost drivers.

• Location and shop type: Dealer estimates are often higher than independent shops; urban areas tend to be more expensive.


• Engine family and model year: Each Subaru generation has different access points; rear-main seal on some engines may be more labor-intensive.


• Extent of the leak and required parts: A simple gasket swap is cheaper than replacing a damaged oil cooler or timing cover.


• OEM vs aftermarket parts: OEM parts typically cost more, but some aftermarket gaskets and seals meet spec and can save money.


• Whether engine removal is required: Some leaks necessitate engine removal, dramatically increasing labor time and cost.

To minimize costs, get a precise diagnostic and request an itemized estimate with parts and labor hours. Address leaks early to avoid more extensive damage.

Summary

Oil-leak repair costs for Subaru vehicles vary widely based on leak source, engine design, and labor rates. Common fixes like valve-cover or oil-pan gaskets are usually in the low-to-mid hundreds, while rear-main seals or timing-cover seals can exceed a thousand dollars. A reliable diagnosis is essential to identify the exact source and provide an accurate quote. If you notice oil spots or a burning oil smell, schedule a shop visit promptly to prevent oil loss and potential engine damage.

Is an oil leak expensive to fix?

Depending on the type of vehicle you have, the engine that is in it and the location of the oil leak, repair costs can range from as little as $150 to as much as $1200.

How to fix a Subaru oil leak?

Professionals fix Subaru oil leaks by replacing damaged gaskets, seals, or other components that are causing the issue. They begin by cleaning the engine to locate the source of the leak. Once found, they will replace worn-out parts, such as the valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket.

Is it common for subarus to leak oil?

Yes, Subarus can leak oil, as this is a common issue with the brand, especially as engines age. The most frequent leak points are the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and timing cover, which can fail due to wear and tear. Some newer Subaru engines have also been noted to have specific leaks related to their design.
 
Common causes and locations of leaks

• Gaskets: The most common culprits are failing gaskets. 
  • Valve cover gasket: Oil can leak from the top of the engine. 
  • Oil pan gasket: This can cause oil to drip from the bottom of the engine. 
  • Timing cover: This is another common source of leaks. 
• Modern engine design: Some newer, modern Subaru engines have been specifically noted to have more potential leak points due to their design, with repairs often involving engine removal, according to this YouTube video. 
• Other components: Other parts that can cause oil leaks include the camshaft and crankshaft seals, and the spark plug tube seals. 
• PCV system: A neglected Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system can increase pressure in the engine, which forces oil past seals and exacerbates leaks. 

What to do if your Subaru is leaking oil

• Check your oil level regularly: Monitor the oil level and top it off as needed between changes. 
• Inspect for leaks: Look for oil spots under your parked car. You can also look for visible signs of a leak, such as oil dripping onto exhaust parts. 
• Address leaks promptly: Have a mechanic inspect and repair the leak as soon as possible to prevent further engine damage. 

What is the recall on the Subaru oil leak?

There is no single, current "Subaru oil leak recall" covering all vehicles, but some past recalls and a class-action lawsuit have addressed specific oil leak issues, such as the 2008 recall for an improperly installed oil supply tube and the 2016 class-action settlement for high oil consumption in certain models. Individual issues like painted drain plugs on some 2025 Foresters or leaks from gaskets and valve covers can also occur and may or may not be covered by an existing warranty. 
Past recalls and settlements

• 2008 oil supply tube recall: This recall addressed an engine oil supply tube that could vibrate and crack, leading to an oil leak and potential fire hazard. Dealers would inspect and install an additional support bracket. 
• 2016 oil consumption settlement: Following a class-action lawsuit, a settlement was approved for specific models with high oil consumption issues, primarily affecting those with FB and FA-series engines, such as certain 2011-2014 Foresters, 2013 Legacy and Outback models, and 2012-2013 Imprezas and Crosstreks. The settlement provided warranty extensions and reimbursements for repairs. 

Other potential issues

• Painted drain plug: Some owners of newer models, like the 2025 Forester, have reported issues with a painted drain plug that makes it difficult to tell if the crush ring is present or to remove it. This can lead to an oil leak and has prompted advice to replace the plug with an aftermarket one if the original crush ring seems stuck. 
• Other oil leaks: Leaks from other areas like valve cover gaskets, oil pans, or cam carrier covers can also occur and are sometimes covered by warranty depending on the model and age of the vehicle. 

What to do if you have an oil leak

• Check for recalls: Visit the Subaru recalls website or a site like Kelley Blue Book's recall page to see if your specific vehicle is subject to any active safety recalls. 
• Consult your warranty: If your vehicle is still under warranty, contact a Subaru dealer to have the issue inspected. Some issues, like those from the 2016 class-action settlement, may have specific extended warranty coverage. 
• Address the problem: Even if there isn't a recall, oil leaks should be addressed to prevent engine damage or fire hazards. If you have an oil drain plug issue, consider replacing it with an aftermarket one that has a properly installed crush ring.