This Subaru Outback had its head gaskets replaced about 1,500 miles ago… (by a different shop)

Dakota Subaru Experts · 27K views · 0:33

Skill Level

Pro Only

Time Required

Full day

Estimated Cost

$500+

Equipment

Subaru Outback 2015-2021

Permit Required

Tools Needed

torque wrench, head gasket set, head bolts, socket set, gasket scraper, coolant, hoist

⚠️This work typically requires a licensed professional in most jurisdictions.

This Outback had its head gaskets replaced about 1,500 miles ago… (by a different shop) and it was already overheating again. What we found was a combination of things we see often: • Aftermarket Fel-Pro head gaskets • OEM head bolts reused • Incorrect torque procedure (Two center head bolts barely snug) Reusing factory head bolts can be okay… but only when paired with OEM head gaskets and the correct torque sequence. Once gasket thickness changes, torque procedure and clamping force matter more than most people realize. If it doesn’t seat correctly, failure isn’t far behind. On this engine, only one head gasket failed, and that head is being resurfaced. We’re reinstalling OEM-style gaskets with new head bolts, then finishing the job the right way. Full rebuild video coming to YouTube once it’s complete. 🚗 2012 Subaru Outback • ~176k miles • Clean title • Bismarck, ND • $6,800 once finished #subaru #subaruej25 #ej25headgasketproblems