Quick answer: Head Gasket Replacement on a 2010–2014 Subaru Outback is rated Advanced and takes about 8-10 hours. You'll need 10 tools for this job, and parts cost about $280. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
| Part Name |
Part Number |
Price |
Buy |
| Head Gasket Set |
SGA11365 |
$229.95 |
|
| Cylinder Head Bolts |
ES72463 |
$50.00 |
|
| Engine oil |
— |
— |
|
| Coolant |
— |
— |
|
About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.
💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps carefully
1
Diagnose, gather parts, and disconnect power
Confirm head-gasket failure on the Subaru Outback (coolant loss, milky oil, exhaust hydrocarbons in coolant, or a failed block test). Disconnect the negative battery cable. Drain coolant and engine oil.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Tom Becker
I confirm the head gasket failure with a block test before tearing down — I've seen 'head gasket' diagnoses that were just a bad cap, and the teardown is enormous.
2
Strip the top end for head removal
Remove the intake, exhaust manifold/turbo plumbing as required, valve cover, timing cover/chain or belt components, and any brackets blocking the cylinder head on the Subaru Outback.
3
Unbolt and lift the cylinder head
Loosen head bolts in the reverse of the torque sequence on the Subaru Outback. Lift the head straight up — it is heavy; use a helper or hoist.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Ray Delgado
I loosen the head bolts in reverse torque sequence — I've seen heads warped from random loosening, and the sequence exists for a reason.
4
Clean surfaces and check for warpage
Clean block and head gasket surfaces on the Subaru Outback without gouging aluminum. Check the head (and block) for warpage with a straightedge; machine or replace if out of spec. Install dowels if removed.
5
Install the new head gasket and torque the head
Place the new head gasket dry (unless the maker specifies sealant) in the correct orientation on the Subaru Outback. Set the head, oil new TTY bolts if required, and torque/angle-tighten in the exact factory sequence and stages.
6
Reassemble timing, refill, and verify
Reinstall timing components, manifolds, covers, and accessories on the Subaru Outback. Refill with fresh oil and the correct coolant. Prime the oiling system if specified, start, check for leaks, and verify temperature and misfire-free running.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Tom Becker
I prime the oiling system if specified before the first start — I've seen a dry start score bearings, and the thirty seconds of priming is cheap insurance.
All Done!
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- • Not replacing head bolts during reassembly
- • Failing to properly torque head bolts in the correct sequence
- • Neglecting to clean mating surfaces thoroughly before installing new gaskets
