I have a 2004 Forester XT 5 speed with 189,000 miles with head gasket issues

First of all a simple head gasket replacement should not cost any where near $3,400. Why are they charging you that much? The car could go a lot more miles with new head gaskets and a timing belt provided the rest of the engine is good. My 2003 Subaru was running like new at 200,000.

I agree with all responses. HGs should cost $1500-1800 max, yet guarantee you NOTHING except that they'll not leak. This is a fairly routine resealing on a non-turbo, but success rate with the turbo is much lower. At a baker's dozen age I'd punt....