How much does it cost to resurface a Subaru head?
Resurfacing a cylinder head is a common repair for Subaru vehicles, especially for models prone to head gasket issues. This process restores the flatness of the cylinder head surface, ensuring a proper seal with the engine block. In this article, we’ll explore the typical costs associated with resurfacing a Subaru head and the factors that can influence the price.
What Is Cylinder Head Resurfacing?
Cylinder head resurfacing is a machining process that removes a thin layer of material from the surface of the cylinder head. This ensures the head is perfectly flat, which is critical for maintaining a proper seal with the head gasket. Resurfacing is often necessary when the head is warped due to overheating or when replacing a blown head gasket.
Typical Costs for Resurfacing a Subaru Head
The cost of resurfacing a Subaru head can vary depending on several factors, including the shop's location, the complexity of the job, and whether additional repairs are needed. On average, you can expect to pay:
- Basic Resurfacing: $50 to $100 per head. This is the cost for a straightforward resurfacing job without any additional repairs.
- Comprehensive Service: $150 to $300 per head. This includes resurfacing along with other services like cleaning, pressure testing, or valve adjustments.
- Labor Costs: If the cylinder head is still installed on the engine, labor costs for removal and reinstallation can add $500 to $1,000 or more, depending on the vehicle model and the shop's hourly rate.
Factors That Influence the Cost
Several factors can affect the total cost of resurfacing a Subaru head:
- Condition of the Head: If the head is severely warped or damaged, additional machining or repairs may be required, increasing the cost.
- Type of Engine: Subaru engines, particularly the boxer engine design, can be more labor-intensive to work on, which may raise labor costs.
- Additional Repairs: If the head gasket has failed, other components like the timing belt, water pump, or thermostat may also need replacement.
- Shop Rates: Labor rates vary by location and shop, with urban areas typically charging more than rural areas.
Is Resurfacing Always Necessary?
Resurfacing is not always required when replacing a head gasket. If the cylinder head is in good condition and passes a straightedge test, it may not need machining. However, if there are signs of warping, pitting, or damage, resurfacing is essential to ensure a proper seal and prevent future issues.
Conclusion
Resurfacing a Subaru head is an important step in maintaining engine performance and reliability, especially after a head gasket failure. While the cost can vary, budgeting between $50 and $300 for resurfacing alone—and up to $1,000 or more for labor and additional repairs—is a good starting point. Always consult a trusted auto repair shop to get an accurate estimate for your specific vehicle and situation.
At Kevin's Autos, we specialize in Subaru repairs and can provide expert advice and service for all your vehicle needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to get a detailed quote for your repair!
Frequently Asked Questions
At what mileage do Subaru head gaskets fail?
The head gaskets on many Subaru's have a high rate of failure. They should last 100,000 miles in ideal conditions.
Why are replacement headlights so expensive?
Why are headlights so expensive to replace? Some types of headlight, like halogen, are inexpensive to replace, but many new vehicles employ HID or LED bulbs, And those systems tend to be much more expensive due to their complexity and technology.
Is it good to resurface a cylinder head?
Resurfacing helps to ensure a tight seal, which is crucial for engine integrity. Improved Compression: A flat and smooth surface helps maintain optimal compression within the combustion chamber. This is vital for engine efficiency and performance.
How much does it cost to replace a Subaru headlight?
Headlight Replacement:
On average, the cost to replace a headlight on a Subaru can range from $100 to $300 or more per headlight, including parts and labor.
Are Subaru headlights easy to change?
Changing a burned-out headlight bulb in your Subaru is often one of the easier services. Even people who aren't gearheads will often change their own headlight bulbs. As easy as it may be, there are still some important things to take into consideration.
How much does it cost to resurface a cylinder head?
In some cases, other components might need attention during the resurfacing process. For instance, if valves or valve seats are damaged, they might require repair or replacement. These additional repairs can add to the overall cost. Cylinder head resurfacing usually costs between $200 and $500.
What happens if you don't resurface a cylinder head?
The smoother and flatter a cylinder head, the less likely the chance of gasket leaks and other serious issues under the hood. We typically resurface cylinder heads after an engine has overheated or after it has blown a gasket. In both of these scenarios, the head becomes distorted.
How much does a machine shop charge to resurface heads?
Cylinder head resurfacing usually costs between $200 and $500. Remember, this is a rough estimate, and the actual cost might fall outside this range based on the factors mentioned. At the same time, it might seem like a chunk of change. Think about the long-term benefits for your engine's health and performance.
What are the symptoms of an over-skimmed cylinder head?
Poor Engine Performance
This poor performance will be instantly noticeable as the engine won't be running the same, and you'll find you may have to restart the car more frequently.
How much does it cost to skim a cylinder head?
HEAD SKIMMING PRICES
| Standard while-you-wait head skim to a bare head (up to 15 mins allocation) | £52.10 + VAT |
|---|---|
| Labour time to strip down and prep head for skimming (per hour or part thereof) | £94.00 + VAT |
| Add removal and refit of cam shaft | £36.00 + VAT |
| Add removal and refit of 8 standard valves | £235.00 + VAT |
