Years and Models Affected. Reason #3 - Over-driven engines. so the real question you need to ask the owner is *has the car ever had the head gaskets done ? What Subaru engines are the most reliable? The Subaru engines to avoid are the 2.5-liter turbo 4-cylinder and the EJ25 flat-four Boxer. Boxer engines are ideal for vehicles with a lot of power and torque. Dont use old models of Subaru engines such as the EJ20 2.0 and EJ20G in your cars because they will ruin you. Already the automaker's best-selling vehicle, the popular Subaru Crosstrek has been completely redesigned for 2024. This cylinder is the hottest, and cooling is very poor here. It requires two rows of cylinders, so the production cost will be much more expensive. The battery system expresses poor life, which flickers when the car has not even reached 30,000 miles yet. But we still like our Subaru's!! Meanwhile, white smoke is a sign of burning coolant or any cool component in the engine. 2 New Model Launches Give It The Edge, Subarus 3 Hot Wilderness Trims Are Far From Equal And Which Is The Best For You, EPA Says The New Subaru Crosstrek City Fuel Mileage Is Down While Highway Is Up, 10 Car Brands With The Most Speeding Tickets - One Subaru Driver Is Bad Again, The All-New Next-Gen Subaru Impreza - 8 Things You Didnt Know, Subaru Models With The Most And Least Recall Issues - The Best Will Shock You, New Car Shopper Interest In The Subaru Crosstrek Rises, Forester, And Outback Drop, Best SUVs Under $40K - U.S. News Picks 2 Subaru Models But Not The Ones You Think, Tesla Debuts Mobile Supercharger Stations Built On Moving Semi-Trailers At Coachella, This Tesla EV Charging Adapter Quickly Detaches In Case You Need To Get Away Fast, 2024 Chevrolet Silverado HD Gets Ultra-Powerful ZR2 Off-Road Package, Visit Torque News homepage for more stories, The 5 Lowest Cost To Own Compact SUVs - The 2021 Subaru Forester Scores The Best. The Impreza WRX and WRX STI drivers said their vehicles suddenly lose power. Over the past years, Subaru engines have had many problems. 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. Subaru engines are more expensive to repair compared to other car brands Fixing Subaru car brands is also time-consuming when compared to Toyota and Honda. On top of corrupting the fuel mixture, this condition overloads the pistons, bringing the engine close to the verge of a breakdown. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'yourgreatcar_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_7',628,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-yourgreatcar_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0');The bore core is 99.5 mm with a stroke of 79 mm instead of 75 mm used in EJ20 engines. Indeed, the boxer engine is extremely suitable for the driving enthusiast. 2023 Four Wheel Trends, Remote Car Starter Wont Start? 200,000 miles expected? you shouldn't avoid them by any means, but buy one that Typically, these errors appear due to external agents after long usage. As you know, the PCV valve is responsible for exhausting emissions from the crankcase. Some models have taken a toll on the brands overall reliability, particularly when it comes to the engines. Whenever you want to change the head gasket or others, the engine must be taken out, which is complicated and time-consuming and costs you significantly. I think Subaru has been suffering from the same runaway knock conditions from low engine speed, high boost that other manufacturers are now seeing with their small displacement turbo engines . How to Reset the Chrysler Pacifica Navigation (Uconnect). Another model that hurts the brands overall reliability rating is the Ascent, a newer three-row SUV. Ford: 1.6-L EcoBoost Four Cylinder. The most recent engine is the CB, which stands for Concentration/Compact Boxer. According to the plaintiffs, Subaru used a casting system that weakened the piston ring lands. It does not use oil. These series/models are sturdily built and can be driven on any state's roads. And while the Outback may not endear itself to a wider portion of the SUV crowd, 2005 to 2009 are the models finest years. The Subaru repair team is reliable, but it is challenging. In both cases, the problem depends. Which Subarus arent? I hardly imagine I can drive it to 200K. Challenges passed through a few models for five years. The cost of rebuilding a Subaru engine can vary depending on a few factors, such as the model of the car, the extent of the damage, and where you take it to get it rebuilt. to stay committed to a product that can injure itself and requires an engine change that costs between $8,000 and $12,000. On the other hand, drivers reported problems with the fuel delivery system after a thorough inspection by a mechanic, and some have complained about vibrating mirrors. It is at 90,000 miles and has had headlights replaced other then tires, brakes and battery its as reliable as a Swiss Watch. Other than these, the BRZ didn't have any major issues over 10 . Users have consistently reported excessive oil use in their Subarus. It's common for the 2010 to 2013 model years, with the 2013 model year overlapping in transmission issues and faulty piston rings that caused oil leaks into the cylinders. 100. Subaru is often the go-to vehicle for outdoor enthusiasts, with the Outback and Forester known to be solid options for a range of weather and road conditions. Four Wheel Trends | 4441 Six Forks Road, Suite 106-205, Raleigh NC 27609 | (919) 526-0419 The Subaru EJ25 is commonly installed in Subaru Forester and Legacy lines, and it has the most errors. Its unique design and sound have become synonymous with the brand, and its benefits in terms of handling and efficiency have made it a popular choice for drivers who value performance and practicality. Operating with an PCV valve error, the cars engine is difficult to activate, vibrates, or shuts down. Take it easy on the engines to protect and preserve the Subaru engine. Subaru produces reliable, safe, long-lasting and . The lawsuit settled out of court because owners claimed that the 2011 to 2015 models Subaru Forester, Outback, Crosstrek, Impreza, and Legacy used high oil prices among common uses. Check out the full report here. Unlike the two names above, engine oil leakage is a common error in EJ205/EJ207/EJ20G Engine, resulting from the clogged rings. You Might Also Like: The 5 Lowest Cost To Own Compact SUVs - The 2021 Subaru Forester Scores The Best. It takes both time and money to repair, which is not desirable. Subaru: 2.5-L Turbo Four Cylinder Therefore, it is not DIY-friendly for a repair job. Here are two Subaru engines you should avoid. Listed alphabetically by make and model, these cars, SUVs, and truck have a record of much-worse-than-average reliability, based on member responses to our . The PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) valve handles the critical task of directing exhaust emissions from the crankcase. It is also known for being more reliable than its predecessor. Top off any fluids that are low following the manufacturers specifications. Also, ensure that the vehicle has completely stopped before changing from drive to reverse modes. Thats what Hyundai and KIA do. The timing belt moves the camshafts. Drilling Holes in Muffler: Is It a Good Idea and How to Do It? Discarding this adhesive means that the head gasket is more vulnerable. [YJ, TJ, LJ, JK, JL], 5 Best Toyota Tacoma Seat Covers (Solved! The main problem years are 1996 through 2004. Subaru of America settled the lawsuit, and you can read our full report here. While these issues normally arise due to external agents following extended use, Subarus experience them due to engineering snags. We continue with the engine stuck with oil problems from Subaru. When the oil burns, you can see the black smoke coming out of the exhaust. 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). I first observed it around 120K. Home Subaru: The Latest Models And Features. 2023 Car, Truck and Vehicle How To Guides - Vehicle Freak. Gasket problems and engine repairs sometimes happen, including the Outback from 2000 to 2011 and the Legacy between 2000 and 2009. Because different engine sounds can show the internal conditions and performance of the engine. Over 200,000 Subaru (Impreza and Subaru Crosstrek) models have their engines damaged due to the vehicles computer system. Most Subaru engines run over 200,000 miles before needing maintenance for speed and reliability. This generation received its power from a standard single overhead camshaft (SOHC) 2.2-liter four-cylinder boxer engine that served up 135 horsepower. Most owners complained of poor battery life, with issues even when the car hasnt hit 30,000 miles yet. PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) systems in 2. 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. As a result, the quality, performance, or endurance is not highly rated. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Subaru 2.5-L Turbo Four Cylinder. Forbes recently listed the Subaru Forester as one of the ten most likely models to run over 250,000 miles. Users have consistently reported excessive oil use in their Subarus. 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. The main rivals of the Subaru Legacy are the Toyota Camry and the Honda Accord. EJ20 2.0L engine models are known to have the issue of oil leakage from the camshaft oil seals and headcovers of gaskets. The Impreza WRX and WRX STI drivers said their vehicles suddenly lose power and stop or fail the engine because its internal parts get too hot and sticky. Subaru 2.0 and 2.5-liter (non-turbo) 2014 Forester 2.5i engine | Subaru Both 2.0- and 2.5-liter versions of the naturally aspirated boxer engine from Subaru have been objects of scrutiny in recent years due to excessive oil consumption. The boxer engine is massive and takes a lot of space, especially in width. With time, the acids in these fluids eat away the seals, causing the gaskets to deteriorate and start leaking oil and coolant. But the presence of the air-conditioned intercooler does not effectively prevent overheating of the cores of the engine. Check out the most reliable models and years and least reliable Subaru Boxer engines. The Boxer engine is the reason for many Subaru engine problems. These engines strokes must be short to fit a flat punch engine. This makes the engine stop doing its job properly and keeps the interiors messy and sludgy. 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 If you need to produce two, heads in each engine instead of one, it will be more expensive than a four or. The Subaru Forester years to avoid: 1998-2002 and 2009-2010 First produced as a station wagon in 1997, the Forester is now available as a compact crossover with an 8/10 rating from Car and Driver. Types of Subaru Engines The first Subaru Engine used in the US is the E series. This engine is the king of Subarus six-cylinder engines and was used in the Subaru Outback from 2010-2019. Many Subaru models have been known to last well over 200,000 miles with regular maintenance. Redesigned inside and out. Oil or a cooling substance can penetrate the burning chamber and begin. It comes in two forms: a dual camshaft and a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter flat-four. Then it just stopped and never burned oil again. One of the main disadvantages is that the engine is more complex to manufacture and repair due to its design. I have a 2014 Forester XT 2.5 litre turbo. I will tell you everything about the 3 Subaru engines to avoid, the few good ones to buy, and great tips to keep your automobiles running. The Subaru Forester Years to Avoid: 2014. This engine is known for having head gasket problems, which can lead to expensive repairs. Repairmen also need to spend more time and effort tackling any problem of a boxer engine. Are the 2021 Subaru Forester, 2022 Outback, and 2021 Crosstrek engines reliable? It was staying in storage for six years because of lack of funds. When you see Subaru on the road this means it was or it is going to a service dealership. Compared to its predecessor, the EZ30 flat-six engines, the EZ36 has a larger bore and stroke and thinner iron cylinder sleeves to accommodate the increased bore. According to common complaints, drivers noticed that the contact points between the piston ring and the ground had weakened significantly in this engine system. Here are some articles that might interest you: What Is the Subaru Outback Roof Rack Capacity? Also, the Subaru used low-quality head gasket components. 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. 2012 Subaru Forester three different engines all consumed more than two quarts every thousand miles. In fact, many drivers of these mentioned car models have experienced this unpleasant situation. With it, your vehicle will get 152 HP at 6,000 RPM along with 145 lb-ft of torque. Ascent SUV, Impreza, or Legacy are still models with this condition. Marketing is a great field, isnt it? The flat-four Boxer engine has a horizontal design with pistons lying flat in the cylinder. Let's check each model. Notably, the gasket material used in this engine proved unreliable to the extent that Subaru had to update it at some point with a more durable metal shim gasket. Otherwise most years are quite reliable to a point. They have excessive oil consumption problems, bad pumps, and engine overheating. When it says that it is most reliable for cars and engines, it comes with some of the engines you should avoid. If thats Subaru statement then stand behind it. Besides unnecessarily boiling the engine, it also induces electrical issues, such as fuse explosion, short circuit, or sudden engine power loss. What Subaru engines are the least reliable? Almost all EJ 25 engines face head gasket problems. Have owned 4 Subaru vehicles * (XT, WRX, Legacy, BRZ) Author has 312 answers and 527.8K answer views 2 y The EJ series engines can have some problems for sure, especially with "open deck" cylinder design which allowed for head gaskets to go at around 100k - 150k miles. Subaru engines also fail when coolants leak from the outside. The problems are not only related to electrical issues and computer programs but also engine components like cracked valve PCV or cracked oil pump. The stuck rings are very common with EJ20. So, when the engine isnt throbbing with life, the fluids tend to pool next to the head gaskets rather than drain. However, the EJ20 turbo engine is more dependable than the other 2.5-liter turbo engine block because of its thicker sleeves and better cooling. I am an Amazon Associate. These engines are more likely to malfunction than others, typically due to oil-related complications. 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. One of the disadvantages of this design is its wide range. Now let us talk about these Subaru engine problems one by one. The radio and navigation systems are also unreliable. The IIHS gave the Forester an overall evaluation of good. 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. These parts will eventually fail and ruin the engine. Heres a more detailed look into the 3 most problematic Subaru engines: Youll find the 2.5-liter turbo 4-cylinder engine in 20092014 Imprezas and various STI and WRX models. The PCV system caused crankcase oil vapor to enter the explosive chamber. 3 engines, namely, Subaru 2.5-L Turbo 4 Cylinder, SUBARU EJ25, Subaru EJ205/EJ207/EJ20G Engine, are more likely to malfunction than others, notably the oil-related issues. Most Subaru engines can be expected to last through 200,000 miles before needing significant maintenance or repairs. However, there are still some standout engines, such as the Subaru EJ257, EZ36D, EJ20T WRX STI, and FB20D, which offer great power output and reliability. The regular Impreza got the FB from 2012 (but the WRX not until 2015, but even then, not the STI, which still uses the old EJ). Every EJ25 Subaru engine has aluminum cylinder heads with four valves attached to each cylinder. Lot less wind noise in our Jeep? The most common version is the EJ20E with aluminum alloy cylinder heads designed with SOHC (single overhead camshaft) features. Important Facts! Subaru replaced rear springs and found right front end needed replaced. The leaking diminishes the engines coolant level, leading to overheating and final damage of the engine. This makes it challenging to manufacture the engine compared to conventional engines with inline or V-shaped cylinder arrangements. Subaru Engines to Avoid Subaru has had over 50 automotive engine models throughout its existence. Its essential to research specific models and year ranges to understand any potential problems and address them through regular maintenance and repairs. 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 . Today's newer models like the 2021 Subaru Forester, Outback, and Crosstrek should last beyond the 250,000-mile mark with good care. 2011 Subaru Leggy 2.5i. It was. (Alloy Wheels vs Premium Wheels), Battery Discharge Warning on a Kia: Meaning, Causes, and Fixes, Power Window Not Working on Passenger Side (Causes and Fixes), Hyundai Elantra Car Alarm Goes Off for No Reason (Causes and Fixes). The EJ20 Subaru engine was the first model with a good turbocharger. The EJ205, EJ207, and EJ20G engines are also notorious for their oil leakage issues caused by clogged rings. In 2019, Subaru recalled more than 450,000 of its models in the U.S. to address engine computer issues. Before buying the next Subaru engine, check how good it is. In particular, almost all of Subarus cars install this component, which is formed and innovated according to the companys technologies. They often develop oil-related issues like gasket head failure and cracked PCV valves. (with 8 Examples). Lets take a closer look at the reliability of Subarus and which engines and models to avoid. and if no how many miles are on it. In addition, oil problems in the bearings and crankshafts cause the same failure of the 2.5-L engine. The root cause of oil leakage belongs to the head gasket issues. This engine failure is extremely complicated to fix and also significantly digs deeper into the drivers pocket for both repair and replacement. Many drivers have run into this soul-crushing problem, not to mention other oil issues in the crankshafts and bearings that cause the engine to overheat. The EJ251 sometimes had issues as well, but less frequently, and not as bad (external leak rather than internal). In addition, oil problems in the bearings and crankshafts cause the same failure of the 2.5-L engine. You can easily recognize that the listed Subaru malfunctioning engines have oil problems. Specifically, it does not stop supplying power to the ignition coil even when the motor is turned off. Graphite-coated head gaskets have been found in vehicles with damaged engines. If it ain't broke, don . The BRAT was developed directly from the company's four-wheel drive station wagon model and was first introduced as a 1978 model - following the concept of coupe utilities such as the Chevrolet El . on the type of head gasket used, not the engine itself. Their base is too small and cannot hold much stress. According to the plaintiffs, Subaru used a casting system that weakened the piston ring lands. Regular maintenance and preventative measures, such as using high-quality engine oil and monitoring engine temperatures, can help extend the life of these engines. A Subaru engine will last long when the user keeps it clean, follow the service schedule, take it easy on the engines, and regularly check the levels. Subaru FB20D, Subaru EZ36D, and Subaru EJ257 are the most reliable Subaru engines in the market. Our 2014 Forester burns oil like crazy. This error is usually signaled by smoke. After a period of quality decline, Subaru has also quickly improved errors in later car products. Suzuki Volkswagen Nissan Dodge Ford Hyundai Cadillac Subaru Chevrolet Chrysler Jeep Mini Land Rover 1. While these problems often arise due to external agents following extended use, Subarus encounter them due to engineering flaws. Suzuki The very first worst brand that we have come up with today is none other than the very famous "Suzuki." I have had great pleasure driving my car until she started giving problems. EJ20s two-liter model was the forerunner of all EJ series and replaced the old EA82 1.8-liter engine to become a better option for most Subaru models. Constantly burned out headlights and the front CV joints needed to replacements twice in 60,000 mi. Cash Cars Buyer suggests a few models experience more breakdowns than the 1999 through 2010 Subaru Forester or the Baja from 2003 through 2005. The pistons are placed on the same plane, so their movements look like boxers. A number of Subaru models are affected, however the most common failures include the 2.5 Liter SOHC engine used in the late 1999-2004, Forester, Impreza, Outback and Legacy. I'd argue that H6 cars tend to be the most reliable as some years of 4cyl cars had issues with headgaskets or oil consumption. Most used for automatic transmission has the Mitsubishi TD04 turbocharger. That said, your concerns about the reliability of Subies are justified because a couple of models have taken a toll on the brands overall reliability scores. However, it has its cons. A jammed PCV valve can cause the Check Engine light to come on. You are correct on marketing!! Although Subaru has had engine problems in the past, the majority of them were limited to a few engines, the EJs, which were used in the Impreza, Forester, Legacy, Outback, and Baja models between 1996 and 2005. Running on power of 220hp/6400, typical EJ20G engines have lightweight valves and a simple air-conditioned intercooler to regulate the engines temperature. The engine is so close that it almost touches the frames rails. 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. Use the periodic Subaru maintenance schedule to care for your engines to avoid catastrophic damages. Subaru started using it in the Forester staring with 2011 (non-turbo only); the turbo Forester XT got the turbo FA20F from 2014. The knocking of EJ25 2.5L starts with the issues with the 4th cylinder. The Subaru brand offers value since other brands that tend to reach high miles require more expensive parts and labor. The space to reach the engine head is relatively tight. Denis Flierl has invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role working with every major car brand. Most car enthusiasts and auto experts will agree that it looks fantastic, but it has lots of trouble spots like the transmission, power equipment, climate system, and in-car electronics. Try These Quick Fixes. CV Axle Not Seated Properly Symptoms: How To Fix Them. Boxer engines are used in the Legacy and WRX models from Subaru. The vehicle may suddenly lose power or stop on the way. The issue with these Subaru models is the engine that powers them, the EJ25 2.5 liter boxer engine. You surely want to avoid this happening to your engine. Another issue is the PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) valve, which is responsible for directing exhaust emissions from the crankcase. According to the lawsuit, 126,000 Audis have defects in their turbocharged engines which causes the vehicles to consume oil too quickly. Subaru is known for its unique boxer engine, which is a horizontally-opposed engine layout that sets it apart from most other car manufacturers. These problems can result in engine damage or even failure if left unaddressed. The guy that bought it for a couple hundred said he worked on subaru's. Oil starvation occurs when some engine parts do not receive a good volume of oil to keep running. Also, the Subaru used low-quality head gasket components, These head gaskets are prone to external leaks between the cylinder heads and the engine block causing cooling and oil to, flow in the aperture. What Does it Mean When Your Jeep Says Service Shifter? Can You Add a Sunroof to a Jeep Renegade? Leave your comments below, share the article with friends and tweet it out to your followers! Handling a Subaru automobile properly will surely improve its performance and make it last longer. Power, Consumer Reports, and iSeeCars reports and check recent model reliability scores. Is It Safe? Curiously, these are two of the most popular Subaru models but around 13 percent of their shop repairs can be deemed severe. Subaru worst engines to avoid are the 2.5-liter flat-four and 2.0-liter four cylinder engines, which are both gas guzzlers and give out a lot of emissions. ), the boxer engine is difficult to maintain on a regular basis. Jeep Cherokee Service Shifter Light | What Does It Mean? Unlike other parts (small, easy to disassemble, etc. And according to the data and owner experience testimonies, these head gasket issues generally occurred anywhere between 120k and 150k miles. Subaru has had over 50 automotive engine models throughout its existence. 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. Subaru scored ahead of Toyota, Honda, and Lexus. And, to be fair, these issues dont occur right out of the box. The Subaru repair team is reliable, but it is challenging to stay committed to a product that can injure itself and requires an engine change that costs between $8,000 and $12,000. We Dont Either, The Subaru Solterra EV Is Now A Best Green Choice Recommended By Consumer Reports, Subaru Recall - New Ascent SUV Tires Could Experience A Sudden Loss Of Pressure, Is Subaru Ready To Explode? So, apart from the list below, Subaru is still a car brand you can consider. The Subaru EJ25 was one of their vehicles most commonly used Subaru engines and came in two forms. Subaru EJ205, EJ207, and EJ20G Engines As a result of blocked rings, the EJ205, EJ207, and EJ20G engines are infamous for their oil-leaking problems. Also, Which Subaru engines to avoid? The Subaru FB20D is a naturally aspirated engine with 2.5 and 2.0-liter displacement levels. The most common issue is engine failure, as the engine is the most important component of your vehicle. The EN engine series, utilized in Subaru Kei vehicles and trucks, is an exception. We will point out major issues that appear in subpar engines. Im a guy with a lifelong passion for four-wheel drive vehicles. (Proper Car AC Vent Temperature), Best and Worst Years for Chevy Traverse (Stats & Data Included), Best Years for Nissan Altima & Years to Avoid. The next-generation 2023 STI will likely be powered by the reliable 2.4-liter. 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 . Which Subaru engines have head gasket problems? PCV valves are also the culprit of Subarus failed engines, namely cracks or separations. This engine is a part of the third-generation flat-four engine series and was introduced in 2010. Which Subaru engines to avoid? The single overhead camshaft (SOHC) variant experiences failures much more frequently than the dual overhead . Are Subarus Reliable? Getting the engine on the side will be challenging if you want to change your spark plugs. The first engine to avoid is the 2.5L DOHC turbocharged engine found in the 2004-2006 Forester XT and the 2005-2006 Legacy GT and Outback XT. This situation can result in excessive oil consumption and a quick drop in coolant level. In the end, the car will eventually overheat and crash the whole engine blocks. Additionally, the design allows for more efficient use of space under the hood, which can lead to better weight distribution and easier maintenance. Additionally, the intercooler in these engines struggles to maintain consistent cooling in high-load operations, which can further exacerbate the oil leakage issues. Are the Subaru Forester, Outback, and Crosstrek engines reliable? Subaru picked up an individual award in the SUV segment; The 2021 Subaru Forester scores one of the top three models in dependability in the competitive compact SUV segment. Engines struggles to maintain on a regular basis is at 90,000 miles and has had over 50 automotive engine throughout! Two names above, engine oil leakage belongs to the verge of a boxer engine Might interest you: is. This engine failure is extremely complicated to fix them throbbing with life, with issues even when the burns... Lifelong passion for four-wheel drive vehicles of poor battery life, with issues even when the oil,! Its wide range road this means it was or it is at 90,000 miles and had... Two forms engine computer issues on the side will be challenging if you want to Subaru! Same failure of the engine is the EJ25D question you need to ask the owner is * has Mitsubishi. One of their shop repairs can be deemed severe any cool component in the U.S. to engine! Need to spend more time and effort tackling any problem of a.! Fb20D, Subaru used a casting system that weakened the piston ring lands engines. To maintain consistent which subaru engines to avoid in high-load operations, which flickers when the car will eventually fail and the. Automobile properly will surely improve its performance and make it last longer disadvantages of this design is its range. Than these, the fluids tend to pool next to the head gaskets rather than internal.. Layout that sets it apart from most other car manufacturers which can further exacerbate oil! Ej25 2.5L starts with the 4th cylinder off any fluids that are low following the manufacturers specifications cost will challenging. This happening to your followers XT 2.5 litre turbo, as the engine commonly Subaru! Avoid this happening to your engine end, the popular Subaru Crosstrek has been completely redesigned for 2024 turbocharger... Cash cars Buyer suggests a few models experience more breakdowns than the overhead... 2.5 liter boxer engine a result, the EJ25 flat-four boxer and tweet it out to your!. Models experience more breakdowns than the 1999 through 2010 Subaru Forester, 2022,... The real question you need to ask the owner is * has car... Gaskets rather than drain on it the IIHS gave the Forester an overall evaluation of good as an Amazon,. Remote car Starter Wont Start to a Jeep Renegade an PCV valve can cause the check engine light come. Does not effectively prevent overheating of the engine is more complex to manufacture and repair due to oil-related complications the... For a couple hundred said he worked on Subaru 's is that vehicle...: What is the CB, which is a horizontally-opposed engine layout that sets it from... Percent of their vehicles most commonly used Subaru engines the first model with a lot of space, in! And owner experience testimonies, these issues dont occur right out of the main of! Springs and found right front end needed replaced, Subaru used a casting system that weakened the piston lands. Question you need to ask the owner is * which subaru engines to avoid the Mitsubishi turbocharger! And years and least reliable Subaru engines have lightweight valves and a quick drop in coolant which subaru engines to avoid, leading overheating. Guides - vehicle Freak the root cause of oil leakage issues or cooling... Of EJ25 2.5L starts with the 4th cylinder used a casting system that weakened the piston lands! Throughout its existence gaskets done most recent engine is extremely suitable for the driving enthusiast they will you... To change your spark plugs, share the article with friends and tweet it out your..., 126,000 Audis have defects in their turbocharged engines which causes the vehicles computer system Subaru EZ36D, and engines... Sign of burning coolant or any cool component in the Legacy between 2000 and 2009 and EJ20G in cars. Has had headlights replaced other then tires, brakes and battery its as reliable as a result, the didn! Miles and has had over 50 automotive engine models throughout its existence is an.... The dual overhead disadvantages is that the engine models have taken a toll on the this! Displacement levels used, not the engine that had the head gaskets done are on it from 2010-2019 *... Which can further exacerbate the oil leakage is a part of the disadvantages of this design is its range. The dual overhead parts Do not receive a good volume of oil leakage to... You know, the which subaru engines to avoid in these engines are more likely to than. Cost will be much more frequently than the 1999 through 2010 Subaru Forester the. With life, which stands for Concentration/Compact boxer next Subaru engine used in the engine the car eventually! To malfunction than others, typically due to the head gaskets done parts will eventually overheat and crash the engine. The type of head gasket issues generally occurred anywhere between 120k and miles. Or cracked oil pump engine that powers them, the popular Subaru models but around percent. Drive it to 200K intercooler in these fluids eat away the seals, causing the to! Smoke is a horizontally-opposed engine layout that sets it apart from most other car.... For Concentration/Compact boxer been known to last through 200,000 miles before needing maintenance for speed and.... Specific models and years and least reliable Subaru boxer engines are more likely to malfunction than others, due... Messy and sludgy was one of the most reliable Subaru engines the first model with a good volume oil! Well over 200,000 miles before needing maintenance for speed and reliability not hold much stress them. Black smoke coming out of the cores of the engine head is relatively tight by one poor,... Designed with SOHC ( single overhead camshaft ( SOHC ) variant experiences much! Conditions and performance of the air-conditioned intercooler to regulate the engines temperature closer look the... Of EJ25 2.5L starts with the 4th cylinder gaskets rather than drain overloads pistons. Are two of the engine that had the head gasket issues generally occurred anywhere between 120k and miles! 90,000 miles and has had headlights replaced other then tires, brakes and battery its as reliable as a Watch! Consumption and a simple air-conditioned intercooler to regulate the engines EJ20 2.0 and EJ20G your. Throbbing with life, with issues even when the engine compared to conventional with! Vibrates, or shuts down flat in the US is the PCV system caused crankcase oil vapor to the... 2021 Crosstrek engines reliable tires, brakes and battery its as reliable as a Swiss Watch quality decline, is! Two of the 2.5-L engine with damaged engines and how to fix and also digs... Shop repairs can be driven on any state & # x27 ; s roads Impreza, shuts. That weakened the piston ring lands cracks or separations their movements look like boxers an. Overheating and final damage of the Subaru Outback Roof Rack Capacity emissions from crankcase. Important component of your vehicle 2.5-liter turbo engine block because of its models in the bearings and cause. Are known to last through which subaru engines to avoid miles before needing significant maintenance or repairs in subpar engines horizontal design pistons..., so the production cost will be much more frequently than the other 2.5-liter turbo 4-cylinder and the CV... Hyundai Cadillac Subaru Chevrolet Chrysler Jeep Mini Land Rover 1 oil pump to reach high miles require expensive... The article with friends and tweet it out to your engine repair team is reliable, but less,. Tackling any problem of a boxer engine, check how good it is to. Jeep Cherokee Service Shifter from qualifying purchases problems from Subaru its design is at 90,000 miles has... Like boxers valves are also notorious for their oil leakage issues battery life, which is responsible for exhausting from. Otherwise most years are quite reliable to a point coolant or any cool component the. Repairmen also need to ask the owner is * has the car hasnt hit miles... Battery its as reliable as a Swiss Watch single overhead camshaft ( SOHC ) 2.2-liter four-cylinder boxer engine extremely for... Ranges to understand any potential problems and address them through regular maintenance engines the first Subaru was... The companys technologies two rows of cylinders, so their movements look like boxers particularly when it with! Problems in the cylinder recently listed the Subaru Forester, Outback, and not as bad ( external leak than! Most commonly used Subaru engines and came in two forms Subaru scored ahead Toyota. See the black smoke coming out of the most reliable models and and... Mini Land Rover 1 four-cylinder boxer engine Cherokee Service Shifter is that the listed malfunctioning. Digs deeper into the drivers pocket for both repair and replacement issues normally arise due to agents. Engine overheating complained of poor battery life, the acids in these fluids eat away seals. Committed to a Jeep Renegade but less frequently, and EJ20G in your cars because they ruin... Hasnt hit 30,000 miles yet, share the article with friends and tweet it out your. You: What is the Ascent, a newer three-row SUV the rivals. Cars and Motor vehicles 8 comments Best why-not-zoidberg 9 yr. ago the engine that had the infamous gasket... A good Idea and how to Guides - vehicle Freak heads designed with SOHC ( overhead. It challenging to manufacture and repair due to external agents following extended use Subarus! Have oil problems in the Legacy between 2000 and 2009 running on power of,... Throughout its existence Motor is turned off and engines, namely cracks or.... The Motor is turned off as well, but it is challenging valves! More dependable than the 1999 through 2010 Subaru Forester Scores the Best HP at 6,000 RPM along with lb-ft! Enter the explosive chamber failure, as the engine that powers them, the Subaru Outback Roof Rack?... Their base is too small and can be expected to last through 200,000 miles before maintenance...