head gasket on 2008 Subaru Forester

Asked by MimMim1015 Nov 18, 2019 at 05:31 PM about the 2008 Subaru Forester 2.5 XT Limited

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

The head gaskets have apparently been leaking oil on my 2008 Subaru
Forester with 171,000 miles on it.  The mechanic where I take my car told me
last year "they are just little leaks and nothing can be done".  Today I was told
the amount of oil leaking from the head gaskets has increased and they need
to be replaced.  Since they have to take the engine out in order to do the work,
I was told it would be best to replace the timing belt at the same time.  The
timing belt was replaced at 105,000 miles.  The estimate for the work, head
gaskets and timing belt is $2600.  Is that a fair price?  

2 Answers

The price is reasonable but you can shop around. However, if the oil level is not dropping much I would live with the leak. The timing belt is not due yet so I would wait on that too but go ahead and replace it should you do the head gaskets. The only additional cost should be the belt which is less than $100 so read your quote to make sure they don't add additional labor for the belt change. Keep an eye on the coolant level and the oil!

510

I have 2005 Subaru Forester .Earlier model Subarus are known for head gasket leaks. I replaced both head gaskets about 4 Years ago when was about 80 k km .Yes I replaced timing belt as well. If I remember correctly ,all parts cost me about $600.00 .NO.. You don't have to take engine out of the vehicle to do the job . It's not too much room ,but could be done. It's site on the internet how to do,step by step by professional mechanic.

Your Answer:

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    Chris W
    Reputation
    11,360
  • #2
    TheSubaruGuruBoston
    Reputation
    9,750
  • #3
    Nick Eidemiller
    Reputation
    6,210
View All

Find great deals from top-rated dealers

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Subaru Outback
55 Great Deals out of 1,103 listings starting at $3,495
Used Toyota RAV4
111 Great Deals out of 2,857 listings starting at $2,949
Used Honda CR-V
157 Great Deals out of 4,953 listings starting at $440
Used Toyota 4Runner
20 Great Deals out of 517 listings starting at $6,825
Used Subaru Impreza
30 Great Deals out of 654 listings starting at $5,995
Used Subaru Legacy
15 Great Deals out of 210 listings starting at $3,495
Used Toyota Highlander
37 Great Deals out of 814 listings starting at $8,495
Used Toyota Tacoma
43 Great Deals out of 684 listings starting at $9,975
Used Toyota Camry
44 Great Deals out of 1,140 listings starting at $3,900
Used Nissan Rogue
127 Great Deals out of 4,950 listings starting at $3,495
Used Honda Pilot
33 Great Deals out of 792 listings starting at $2,495

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.