Head Gasket repair

Asked by Yogamechanic Feb 15, 2016 at 01:40 PM about the 1999 Subaru Forester

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

I have a '99 Subaru Forester with 135k miles and both heads have external
leaks. I've been quoted $1500-$2000 to get it fixed; including timing belt,
tensioners, etc., water pump, thermostat, and normal oil change, etc. that
comes with the job.  
I've questions getting it fixed at all, so advice there would be appreciated, but
I would also like to hear what you think if using Dura-Seal. Does anyone have
any experience with that and is it a smart option for my car?  Thanks!

1 Answer
48,090

TheSubaruGuruBoston answered 8 years ago

Tom's right. Additionally, if yours is the older DOHC 2.5i I would NOT rebuild it as the failure rate is miserable. If it's the newer SOHC 2.5i you'll be ok if you have a machine shop test the heads. Note that although replacing t-belt and tensioners is prudent, the water pump and t-stat NEVER need replacement. Power flush the radiator, though.

Mark helpful

Your Answer:

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