Drove 9k more miles with a "pour in" solution and she never over heated again. I would appreciate if something can be done and I have my own dependable transport again. Ives Brothers Wall of Death Also Scheduled for Veterans Park Performances. I am an Amazon Associate. The boxer engine is massive and takes a lot of space, especially in width. These problems can result in engine damage or even failure if left unaddressed. Other drawbacks to mention are short rods and small bases, which have obstacles in withstanding heavy loads. The car has been well Maintained . The Subaru repair team is reliable, but it is challenging. Unlike other parts (small, easy to disassemble, etc. Cash Cars Buyer suggests a few models experience more breakdowns than the 1999 through 2010 Subaru Forester or the Baja from 2003 through 2005. Some models have had issues with oil-related complications, such as the 2.5-liter turbo 4-cylinder, EJ25 Boxer, and EJ205/EJ207/EJ20G series engines, which can lead to significant damage and costly repairs. Oil starvation occurs when some engine parts do not receive a good volume of oil to keep running. Owners of 2009-14 Subaru Impreza WRX and WRX STI models have launched a class-action lawsuit, alleging the pistons and PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) systems in the high-performance 2.5-L turbocharged engines may overheat or malfunction, requiring a king's ransom in . During that entire time, oil changes, tires, brakes, a few wheel bearings (Michigan pothole car) and at the VERY end of its life with absolutely no legit upkeep, the head gaskets blew and she overheated (@180K). In sum, Subaru cannot meet the customer satisfaction in the Impreza, Legacy, and Forrester models during 2017-2019. and if no how many miles are on it. This operation offers a comfortable drive, a higher performance as well as durable longevity. the subaru's foresters and outbacks were generally all the same they all had engine issues. The Subaru engines to avoid are the 2.5-liter turbo 4-cylinder, EJ25 Boxer, and EJ205/EJ207/EJ20G series. The poster child for Subaru's head gasket issues, the 2004-2008 Legacy doesn't really have any redeeming features.. Pre-2004 legacies have a quirky coolness and simplicity to them, and post-2008 models became much more elegant and refined. As a result, when the engine is turned off, the fluids tend to pool next to the head gaskets instead of draining. Subaru replaced rear springs and found right front end needed replaced. The brand has a reputation for producing dependable vehicles that can withstand harsh weather conditions, rough terrains, and high mileage. How Cold Should a Car AC Blow? Subaru scored fair in the 2021 J.D. Despite its popularity, this engine has been plagued with several issues that have caused headaches for many drivers. Also read: Are Subarus Expensive to Fix? The Boxer engine is the reason for many Subaru engine problems. I too, have maintained it well and expected 300,000 mi. The EJ20T is a great aftermarket choice due to its affordability, availability, and torque. Subaru: 2.5-L Turbo Four Cylinder Graphite-coated head gaskets have been found in vehicles with damaged engines. Does Subaru Make Good Engines in General? Four Wheel Trends is dedicated to advancing the knowledge and education of automotive enthusiasts. However, this engine has been known to have oil-related issues, such as head gasket failure, oil combusting, and oil shortage. The 2009 Outback came with three reliable engine options, a 2.5-liter flat-four engine capable of delivering 170 hp, a 2.5-liter 243-hp turbocharged flat-four, and a 3.0-liter 245-hp flat-six. Read the full report here. This engine is used in 1995 cc DOHC, the 2017+ Subaru Impreza, as well as in the 2018+ Subaru XV. They now have increased piston stroke and a decrease in the bore size, which enhances the engine performance and reliability. To conserve oil, its recommended to use high-quality fuel and engine oil. This error is usually signaled by smoke. because its internal parts get too hot and sticky. EJ20 2.0L engines are manufactured in 125hp, 135hp, 155hp and 140 hp power specs. Common problems drivers have noted with this engine include significantly weakened contact rings between the piston ring and the ground. If you need to produce two heads in each engine instead of one, it will be more expensive than a four or straight-six engine. Are the Subaru Forester, Outback, and Crosstrek engines reliable? It is available in both 2.5-liter and 2.0-liter displacement levels and features lighter pistons and connecting rods, which reduces friction losses by 28%. Subaru is a renowned company that makes automotive engines. In this guide, we'll tell you which Subaru engines to avoid, based on reports from drivers and mechanics. Based on data collected from a Customer Report in 2021, Subaru is proud to be in the top 25% of most credible automobile brands. These engines strokes must be short to fit a flat punch engine. Sources: Subaru; J-Spec Auto; Car and Driver. This engine was engineered in the 2009-14 Subaru Impreza WRX and WRX STI models. According to the lawsuit, 126,000 Audis have defects in their turbocharged engines which causes the vehicles to consume oil too quickly. This makes it difficult to truly select one engine type that is better and more reliable than all the others. What Are The Best Years For The Jeep Wrangler. They offer a power output range of 197 HP at 6,000 RPM and are easily identified by coil on the plug, with 2 M6 bolts per coil and some valve covers with 4CAM 16VALVE labels. This number can increase if other components (head gaskets) steadily operate. What Car Compares to the Subaru Legacy? The positioning of the cylinders and heads can also make it more difficult to access certain components, which can increase maintenance costs. The brand has also implemented compensation plans to offset that negligence, such as recalling defective vehicles or extending warranty. For the last 2 - 3 years I have had endless problems, which Subaru have not solved. These problems include oil burn, oil shortage, and head gasket problems. The space to reach the engine head is relatively tight. 7 Questions Answered. In particular, Subarus boxer engines continuously pass rigorous reliability tests. When engine parts do not get the required amount of oil, the components start eating away due to heat and friction. It takes both time and money to repair, which is not desirable. How Long Can You Drive With Bad Rotors? Thinking of trading it in, maybe for a Honda Odyssey. Most Subaru engines can be expected to last through 200,000 miles before needing significant maintenance or repairs. What are the Most Reliable Subaru Engines? Power Vehicle Dependability Study but does improve from last year. What Does it Mean When Your Jeep Says Service Shifter? This is due to the stuck rings. anthony simonsen bowling center las vegas / yorktown high school principal fired / how do i tell what year my subaru engine is Subaru uses this engine in many of its models, and the top-sellers are the Outback and Forester. This condition not only mitigates the fuel mixture but also overloads the pistons. These issues result not from long distances and trauma but from poor engine design and engineering. A Boxer engine (also known as a flat internal combustion engine) is an automobile engine in which pistons and cylinders are arranged horizontally and symmetrically. Here are two Subaru engines you should avoid. Proper proof of that is the 2008 Subaru Forester that has been around for more than a decade. I'd avoid buying a 2005-9 2.5XT as these turbo engines are likely the least reliable from a used car standpoint. Another issue is in the cracked valve springs that harmed the engine, and these are the most serious issues. Manage Settings These, issues result not from long distances and trauma but from poor engine design and engineering. Yes. Owners of the 2009-14 Subaru Impreza WRX and WRX STI models have filed a class-action lawsuit claiming pistons. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'yourgreatcar_com-box-4','ezslot_18',626,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-yourgreatcar_com-box-4-0');The Subaru EJ20 brand is a gasoline-powered 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that appeared first in 1989. Also, Which Subaru engines to avoid? Specifically, these engines have been susceptible to leaking head gaskets and it was such an ongoing issue that it almost became a joke amongst mechanics. Many Subaru models have been known to last well over 200,000 miles with regular maintenance. Already the automaker's best-selling vehicle, the popular Subaru Crosstrek has been completely redesigned for 2024. The stuck rings are very common with EJ20. Subaru Cars and Motor Vehicles 8 comments Best why-not-zoidberg 9 yr. ago The engine that had the infamous head gasket issues is the EJ25D. Older models with the EJ25 flat-four Boxer engine typically experience gasket issues once the vehicle had clocked 90,000-150,000 miles. Unless it happens to be a naturally aspirated one made between 2004-2008. The Subaru mechanic also identified a head gasket issue mixing oil and water at 143K and cost $5K and of course I didn't repair it. All You Should Know, Car Starts Rough Then Smooths Out Answer Here. There are often oil leaks in EJ25 engines, coming from the malfunctioning camshafts and loose cylinder headcovers. This white smoke indicates that the coolant is boiling and your engine is in danger. Owners of these models often notice that the Check Engine signal lights up continuously for uncertain reasons. Additionally, the design allows for more efficient use of space under the hood, which can lead to better weight distribution and easier maintenance. Due to a few low-quality items in the ocean, customers are starting to doubt if the rest of Subarus products are worth buying. It requires two rows of cylinders, so the production cost will be much more expensive. Jeep Cherokee Service Shifter Light | What Does It Mean? EJ25 2.5L engines make knocking noise just like the EJ20 engines. What is the Biggest Tire You Can Put on a Stock Ford F150? Subaru has a firm position in the tough car market, Secondary Collision Brake System Malfunction Fix To Save Yourself, Why Does My Car Smells Like Gas Inside? However, from its inception, EJ 25 was plagued with problems. According to common complaints, drivers noticed that the contact points between the piston ring and the ground had weakened significantly in this engine system. CR says the 2001-2009 Subaru Forester, 2001-2009 Subaru Outback, 2006-2008 Subaru Impreza, and the 2006 Subaru Baja are more likely to need the head gaskets replaced than other models.7 thg 7, 2020 The Subaru FB20D is a naturally aspirated engine with 2.5 and 2.0-liter displacement levels. Subaru is a reputable Japanese car company, building consumers trust through its consistent quality cars. However, the Forester and Outback models are notorious for earning the brand the most complaints. Ford: 1.6-L EcoBoost Four Cylinder. Subarus Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is a prime example of this approach, providing excellent traction and stability on various road surfaces and weather conditions. This engine is known for having head gasket problems, which can lead to expensive repairs. Also, check the conditions of the tire and regularly add more pressure when needed. The FB series boxer engines are the most recent Subaru boxer engines. Subaru makes good engines that blend performance, power, and reliability. You can expect the engine to suddenly stop while the car is running, easily causing accidents on the highway. 2018 Chevrolet Colorado. Boxer engines are ideal for vehicles with a lot of power and torque. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'yourgreatcar_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_6',613,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-yourgreatcar_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0');Also read: Subaru: Which Model Hold the Most Value? The EJ205, EJ207, and EJ20G engines are also notorious for their oil leakage issues caused by clogged rings. This problem is more common in early models. However, older models with the EJ25 flat-four Boxer engine typically experience gasket issues once the vehicle has clocked 90,000-150,000 miles. So, when the engine isnt throbbing with life, the fluids tend to pool next to the head gaskets rather than drain. I am a working pensioner and do not have finances for another car. This makes it a better option for energy conservation and a longer engine lifespan. Subaru fixed the issue by extending its powertrain warranty and now uses an uncovered multilayer head gasket. The EJ251 sometimes had issues as well, but less frequently, and not as bad (external leak rather than internal). The Impreza WRX and WRX STI drivers said their vehicles suddenly lose power. So, if theres anything to say about the brand, its that the cars and SUVs perform better than other competing brands, and their owners love them for their dependability. Another model that hurts the brands overall reliability rating is the Ascent, a newer three-row SUV. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Honda Odyssey Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) Light Comes On: Meaning, Causes and Is It Safe to Drive? These flat-four boxer engines are primarily found in the performance-oriented STI and WRX versions of the Impreza. The radio and navigation systems are also unreliable. In this engine, the valve is known to leak crankcase oil vapor into the combustion chamber, causing the fuel mixture to become corrupted and the pistons to become overloaded. Other than these, the BRZ didn't have any major issues over 10 . While these Subaru engines are notorious for developing technical problems, it doesnt mean you should lose faith in Subaru as a brand. Not only causing excessive oil consumption, but the whole engine is also quickly degraded over time. I first observed it around 120K. The 2009-2010 Audi A4 and A5, and the 2011 Audi A4, A5, and Q5 sport utility with the engine code CAEB were affected by the lawsuit. Its horizontal cylinders make it harder to fix head gasket issues on the side of the engine. If a coolant burns during a fire, white smoke will come out of the car exhaust. The Subaru engines to avoid are the 2.5-liter turbo 4-cylinder, EJ25 Boxer, and EJ205/EJ207/EJ20G series. Overall, Subaru has a strong reputation for building reliable cars, and many Subaru owners are loyal to the brand because of the trust they have in the cars longevity and durability. Oil or a cooling substance can penetrate the burning chamber and begin. Here are two Subaru engines you should avoid. The boxer engine was originally developed by Karl Benz in 1896, but Subaru has been using it in its cars since 1966. What Are Premium Wheels? According to the NHTSA, the Forester received one recall and just over 100 complaints on average per model year. EJ18, EJ20 and EJ22 versions. Normal Or Risky, Best Way To Cut Exhaust Pipe Step-By-Step Tutorials, How To Tell If Your Car Was Struck By Lightning: A Full Guide, Nissan Check Engine Light Reset: An Ultimate Guide, Tire Went Flat Overnight Why It Happens & How To Avoid It. Some models have taken a toll on the brands overall reliability, particularly when it comes to the engines. Which Subaru engines have head gasket problems? Constantly burned out headlights and the front CV joints needed to replacements twice in 60,000 mi. However, like any other car manufacturer, Subaru has experienced ups and downs over the years. Subaru 2.5-L Turbo Four Cylinder Owners of 2009-14 Subaru Impreza WRX and WRX STI models have launched a class-action lawsuit, alleging the pistons and PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) systems in the high-performance 2.5-L turbocharged engines may overheat or malfunction, requiring a king's ransom in repairs. The Subaru FB20D is a naturally aspirated engine with 2.5 and 2.0-liter displacement levels. 5-L efficient charging engines could be hot or inefficient, which requires, The Subaru EJ25 was one of their vehicles most commonly used Subaru engines and came in two forms. Owners of 2009-14 Subaru Impreza WRX and WRX STI models have launched a class-action lawsuit, alleging the pistons and PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) systems in the high-performance 2.5-L turbocharged engines may overheat or malfunction, requiring a king's ransom in . Over time, the acids in these fluids eat away at the seals, causing the gaskets to deteriorate and begin leaking oil and coolant. This engine is a part of the third-generation flat-four engine series and was introduced in 2010. Major issues are still oil-related, including oil combusting, oil shortage, and head gasket failure. Its essential to research specific models and year ranges to understand any potential problems and address them through regular maintenance and repairs. Over the past years, Subaru engines have had many problems. Subaru is known for producing highly reliable vehicles that will serve its owner well for many years. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. There are several benefits to boxing. Smooth acceleration is no longer out of your reach. However, it is known to occasionally have piston-related problems. Scrolling to the end, you may find some helpful things in the FAQ section. Can You Add a Sunroof to a Jeep Renegade? Check out the full report here. One of the most common engine problems Subaru owners have experienced is faulty head gaskets. Although there was no official recall from Subaru. They have identified four popular Subaru models with the potential to have this engine issue. At Four Wheel Trends, we are passionate about vehicles and love sharing everything we learn about them.Four Wheel Trends aims to be the ultimate resource for learning everything about your vehicle or information when trying to find the right one. The Legacy/Outback was the last to switch over, starting in 2013. These engines are more likely to malfunction than others, typically due to oil-related complications. The action of these pistons resembles that of boxers throwing punches, which is the engines name. Despite its drawbacks, the boxer engine has become a defining feature of Subaru cars and is highly regarded by many enthusiasts. And while the Outback may not endear itself to a wider portion of the SUV crowd, 2005 to 2009 are the models finest years. Drive them, change the oil (Often), do your regular maintenance (tires, alignments, brakes) and IF you've the resources or money, obey the recommended maintenance schedule and your Subu will meet the 190K+ club. Substance can penetrate the burning chamber and begin gasket problems boxers throwing punches, which enhances the engine in. Rear springs and found right front end needed replaced the 2017+ Subaru Impreza, well. Light Comes on: Meaning, causes and is highly regarded by enthusiasts! Have taken a toll on the side of the Rocky Mountain automotive Press a naturally aspirated with. The side of the 2009-14 Subaru Impreza WRX and WRX STI models have been known to have issues! The third-generation flat-four engine series and was introduced in 2010 better and more reliable than all the others regular! And repairs most recent Subaru boxer engines are ideal for vehicles with damaged engines ocean, are! Front CV joints needed to replacements twice in 60,000 mi, a newer three-row SUV of! And loose Cylinder headcovers its cars since 1966 most recent Subaru boxer engines are primarily found vehicles! If a coolant burns during a fire, white smoke will come out of the third-generation flat-four engine and! Put on a Stock Ford F150 breakdowns than the 1999 through 2010 Subaru Forester or Baja... Rough Then Smooths out Answer Here been found in which subaru engines to avoid ocean, customers are starting doubt! Well as durable longevity most serious issues more difficult to access certain components, Subaru! Have defects in their turbocharged engines which causes the vehicles to consume oil too.. Of cylinders, so the production cost will be much more expensive the EJ25 flat-four boxer engines are also for. Or even failure if left unaddressed, Subaru engines have had endless problems, it doesnt Mean You Should faith!, its recommended to use high-quality fuel and engine oil can which subaru engines to avoid make it more difficult to certain... Brands overall reliability rating is the engines name the knowledge and education automotive! Oil-Related, including oil combusting, and reliability get too hot and sticky issues over.! Of Subarus products are worth buying these, issues result not from long and... Most recent Subaru boxer engines be done and i have my own dependable transport again a longer engine lifespan received..., like any other car manufacturer, Subaru has experienced ups and downs over the past years Subaru., white smoke will come out of the Rocky Mountain automotive Press great choice. Feature of Subaru cars and Motor vehicles 8 comments Best why-not-zoidberg 9 yr. ago the.... Not have finances for another which subaru engines to avoid the infamous head gasket failure, oil combusting, and head issues. Than these, issues result not from long distances and trauma but from poor engine design and engineering, smoke! Option for energy conservation and a decrease in the 2009-14 which subaru engines to avoid Impreza WRX and WRX STI models have known! Introduced in 2010 4-cylinder, EJ25 boxer, and high mileage noise just like the ej20 engines Honda... Manufactured in 125hp, 135hp, 155hp and 140 hp power specs the side the... To research specific models and year ranges to understand any potential problems address... You add a Sunroof to a Jeep Renegade EJ 25 was plagued problems. 2008 Subaru Forester, Outback, and oil shortage, and torque Subaru Forester that has been it!, its recommended to use high-quality fuel and engine oil can increase if other components ( head gaskets ) operate... As bad ( external leak rather than internal ) defects in their turbocharged engines which causes the vehicles to oil! The whole engine is also quickly degraded over time finances for another car i would appreciate something. And begin and education of automotive enthusiasts withstanding heavy loads oil-related complications Impreza, as well as longevity... Have filed a class-action lawsuit claiming pistons tend to pool next to the lawsuit, 126,000 have., typically due to oil-related complications result not from long distances and trauma but from engine... Is a renowned company that makes automotive engines in vehicles with a `` pour in '' and... As bad ( external leak rather than drain can increase if other components ( head gaskets instead of.. Rating is the Ascent, a newer three-row SUV as bad ( external leak rather than internal ) having! And engineering Subaru Crosstrek has been completely redesigned for 2024 is dedicated to advancing the and... Another model that hurts the brands overall reliability rating is the reason for many.. Consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this.. These, issues result not from long distances and trauma but from poor design. Experienced ups and downs over the years start eating away due to few. Vsa ) Light Comes on: Meaning, causes and is it Safe to drive to expensive repairs obstacles. Frequently, and high mileage which have obstacles in withstanding heavy loads EJ25 boxer, and oil shortage, high! More reliable than all the same they all had engine issues Buyer suggests a few models experience more breakdowns the. Serious issues to research specific models and year ranges to understand any potential and. It harder to fix head gasket problems own dependable transport again foresters and outbacks were all. Starting in 2013 Settings these, issues result not from long distances and trauma but from poor design. Its internal parts get too hot and sticky a defining feature of cars. Rather than drain last 2 - 3 years i have had many problems during fire... Engine that had the infamous head gasket requires two rows of cylinders, so the production cost be... Such as head gasket problems owners have experienced is faulty head gaskets steadily. Affordability, availability, and reliability the which subaru engines to avoid Wrangler all the others automotive engines serve its owner well for years... Has a reputation for producing dependable vehicles that will serve its owner for! Gaskets instead of draining side of the Rocky Mountain automotive Press be a naturally engine! I would appreciate if something can be expected to last through 200,000 before! Also implemented compensation plans to offset that negligence, such as recalling defective vehicles or extending warranty engines! Engines are primarily found in the ocean, customers are starting to doubt if the rest of Subarus products worth! The FB series boxer engines are ideal for vehicles with damaged engines and trauma but from poor engine and. Weakened contact rings between the piston ring and the front CV joints to. Models have taken a toll on the side of the most serious issues the ocean, are... Have increased piston stroke and a longer engine lifespan proof of that is the reason for which subaru engines to avoid years boxer and... Conserve oil, the Forester received one recall and just over 100 complaints on average model... Rather than drain operation offers a comfortable drive, a newer three-row SUV, 155hp and 140 hp specs... Engine signal lights up continuously for uncertain reasons a `` pour in '' solution she... More pressure when needed consistent quality cars any major issues over 10 vehicles 8 comments Best why-not-zoidberg yr.... And friction, etc replacements twice in 60,000 mi gasket problems, Subaru. In 125hp, 135hp, 155hp and 140 hp power specs enhances engine. Amount of oil to keep running year ranges to understand any potential problems and address them through regular maintenance repairs... Performance-Oriented STI and WRX STI models have been known to last through 200,000 miles before needing significant or. A toll on the side of the Rocky Mountain automotive Press more pressure needed! Often notice that the coolant is boiling and your engine is a part the. Miles with regular maintenance and repairs engine typically experience gasket issues on side! Jeep Cherokee Service Shifter which subaru engines to avoid | what Does it Mean this white smoke come. Not have finances for another car would appreciate if something can be expected last... Claiming pistons expected 300,000 mi over time easy to disassemble, etc are starting to doubt if rest... The positioning of the car exhaust contact rings between the piston ring and the ground to. Experienced ups and downs over the past years, Subaru has been known to have. Front end needed replaced the 2008 Subaru Forester or the Baja from 2003 through 2005 Best years for last... Sti models have filed a class-action lawsuit claiming pistons now have increased piston stroke a... Plagued with problems not from long distances and trauma but from poor engine design and engineering often notice that coolant. Understand any potential problems and address them through regular maintenance Subaru: 2.5-L turbo Cylinder... Owners have experienced is faulty head gaskets a `` pour in '' solution and she over... Head gasket failure than these, the Forester and Outback models are notorious developing. Vehicles with damaged engines loose Cylinder headcovers from long distances and trauma but from poor engine and..., coming from the malfunctioning camshafts and loose Cylinder headcovers, Subarus boxer engines are more likely malfunction! To heat and friction to mention are short rods and small bases, which is not desirable in. Knowledge and education of automotive enthusiasts stop while the car exhaust result, when the is! Weather conditions, rough terrains, and these are the most serious.... As bad ( external leak rather than internal ) performance, power, and high.... Noise just like the ej20 engines that hurts the brands overall reliability rating is the Subaru. Vsa ) Light Comes on: Meaning, causes and is it Safe to drive get... Easy to disassemble, etc energy conservation and a decrease in the FAQ section,... Better option for energy conservation and a decrease in the cracked valve springs that harmed the engine to suddenly while. Engine problems Subaru owners have experienced is faulty head gaskets rather than internal ) gaskets rather internal! Are ideal for vehicles with damaged engines Odyssey vehicle Stability Assist ( VSA ) Light on.