which subaru engines to avoid

As an avid 4x4 enthusiast, I often mention and link to various products and gear I use. Discarding this adhesive means that the head gasket is more vulnerable. My other Subarus are Subarus. Subaru of America settled the lawsuit, and you can read our full report here. In conclusion, while Subaru is known for producing sturdy and reliable vehicles, not all of its engines are created equal. Other drawbacks to mention are short rods and small bases, which have obstacles in withstanding heavy loads. Since there are fewer Subaru automobiles in the market nowadays due to more portable brands, finding a good mechanic is hard. they are the ones fixed with the coolant additive. 2013 Legacy 2.5i bought new. The VersAttach tools include tool holders . Fast production often translates into poor construction quality and factory errors. Unlike other parts (small, easy to disassemble, etc. Drilling Holes in Muffler: Is It a Good Idea and How to Do It? CV Axle Not Seated Properly Symptoms: How To Fix Them. 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. In return, its also less likely to get corrupted. Not only causing excessive oil consumption, but the whole engine is also quickly degraded over time. This occurs especially when a high G maneuver is pulled, and the oil floats from one side to another without a proper lubing of the entire engine parts. Our Subaru was recalled for wind noise a few years back but I could hear no difference after the dealer made changes? The next-generation 2023 STI will likely be powered by the reliable 2.4-liter turbocharged engine currently used in the 2022 Ascent, 2022 Outback, 2022 Legacy, and all-new naturally-aspirated 2.4-liter in the 2022 BRZ sports coupe. EJ25 2.5L engines make knocking noise just like the EJ20 engines. Many Subaru models have been known to last well over 200,000 miles with regular maintenance. The Subaru Outback is the brands all-time best-selling model and is among the last remaining station wagons in the market. Several loyal Subaru customers have praised that the engines still perform well before each maintenance period. Home Subaru: The Latest Models And Features. 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. Their base is too small and cannot hold much stress. There are often oil leaks in EJ25 engines, coming from the malfunctioning camshafts and loose cylinder headcovers. This makes it challenging to manufacture the engine compared to conventional engines with inline or V-shaped cylinder arrangements. Because they undergo a flawed casting process that affects the ability of the pistons to function well, the piston consumes a high amount of power, causing the engine to overheat and crash. Which Subarus arent? In the end, the car will eventually overheat and crash the whole engine blocks. However, if the damage is more extensive and requires a full engine rebuild, the cost can easily exceed $4,000. 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. ), the boxer engine is difficult to maintain on a regular basis. These issues result not from long distances and trauma but from poor engine design and engineering. The knocking of EJ25 2.5L starts with the issues with the 4th cylinder. The Crosstrek recipe was born out of the popular Impreza Sport. This problem is more common in early models. Facts about Subaru engine problems for used-car buyers. 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. I am an Amazon Associate. The Boxer engine is the reason for many Subaru engine problems. 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. Indeed, the boxer engine is extremely suitable for the driving enthusiast. Many have declared this model as one of the best Forester ever made. Additionally, the design allows for more efficient use of space under the hood, which can lead to better weight distribution and easier maintenance. Are Catalytic Converters Interchangeable? They now have increased piston stroke and a decrease in the bore size, which enhances the engine performance and reliability Hi, I'm Kern! (Proper Car AC Vent Temperature), Best and Worst Years for Chevy Traverse (Stats & Data Included), Best Years for Nissan Altima & Years to Avoid. Does Subaru Make Good Engines in General? For the last 2 - 3 years I have had endless problems, which Subaru have not solved. Subaru had three lawsuits claiming an engine defect in 2012-2017 WRX and WRX STI models equipped with the EJ25 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. In sum, Subaru cannot meet the customer satisfaction in the Impreza, Legacy, and Forrester models during 2017-2019. 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. It is why many Subaru engines have recurring issues. 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. They have identified four popular Subaru models with the potential to have this engine issue. The 2014 Forester model is the one to stay away from. The computer part was initially programmed with no finesse and precision. In 2019, Subaru recalled more than 450,000 of its models in the U.S. to address engine computer issues. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Then it just stopped and never burned oil again. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Therefore, you need to have a wide-bay engine. According to common complaints, drivers noticed that the contact points between the piston ring and the ground had weakened significantly in this engine system. Lets take a closer look at the reliability of Subarus and which engines and models to avoid. Besides, the air-conditioned intercooler seems hit-and-miss since it can not cool down the engine core during operation, especially in high-load performance. Subaru Report - Weve got you covered! 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. This problem is more common in early models. Owners of these models often notice that the Check Engine signal lights up continuously for uncertain reasons. You surely want to avoid this happening to your engine. These engines are more likely to malfunction than others, typically due to oil-related complications. It was staying in storage for six years because of lack of funds. and if no how many miles are on it. We can not deny the benefits that the boxer engine contributes to your drive. 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 IIHS gave the Forester an overall evaluation of good. The most common cause of oil leaks is the crankshaft seal. What is the Biggest Tire You Can Put on a Stock Ford F150? Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The 2017 Subaru Forester in particular earns a lot of thumbs down due to its weak engine and electrical issues. 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. The root cause of oil leakage belongs to the head gasket issues. The 2021 Subaru Forester, Outback, Crosstrek, Impreza, and Legacy are top picks. Another model that hurts the brands overall reliability rating is the Ascent, a newer three-row SUV. Thats what Hyundai and KIA do. The most common version is the EJ20E with aluminum alloy cylinder heads designed with SOHC (single overhead camshaft) features. Most owners complained of poor battery life, with issues even when the car hasnt hit 30,000 miles yet. In fact, many drivers of these mentioned car models have experienced this unpleasant situation. The Forester also has one of the best customer loyalty ratings of all cars on the market today. If you have a newer Subaru and the damage is minor, you might be able to get away with just replacing the head gaskets and doing a few other repairs for around $1,500 to $2,500. We were researching Subaru engine problems and found this fantastic video explaining why Subaru engines fail and the mechanics involved. 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. This shells adhesion is considered unstable, gradually fading after about 100,000 miles. Subaru gaskets are prone to head gasket failures and overheating. 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. Operating with an PCV valve error, the cars engine is difficult to activate, vibrates, or shuts down. Almost all EJ 25 engines face head gasket problems. In both cases, the problem depends on the type of head gasket used, not the engine itself. Important Facts! What Subaru engines are the least reliable? Despite its popularity, this engine has been plagued with several issues that have caused headaches for many drivers. Based on data collected from a Customer Report in 2021, Subaru is proud to be in the top 25% of most credible automobile brands. Unwanted buildups of sand, dust, salt, or organic matters within the cylinder can result in poor lubrication and overheating of the engine. This engine was engineered in the 2009-14 Subaru Impreza WRX and WRX STI models. We drive an Outback! Dont use old models of Subaru engines such as the EJ20 2.0 and EJ20G in your cars because they will ruin you. This is most likely due to issues with its EJ25 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, which will be discontinued after the 2022 model year and replaced with the same 2.4-liter engine that is in the Outback and Legacy. The Subaru engines to avoid are the 2.5-liter turbo 4-cylinder and the EJ25 flat-four Boxer. Most automobile technicians wont master all the brands and models of Subaru hence an increase in repair cost. The engine has a problem with the 4th cylinder that makes it knock most times. They often develop oil-related issues like gasket head failure and cracked PCV valves. Most used for automatic transmission has the Mitsubishi TD04 turbocharger. 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. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. The venerated Japanese automaker has long been associated with sturdy and affordable vehicles whose AWD drivetrain has been a staple. These problems can result in engine damage or even failure if left unaddressed. Subaru designed the Boxer Engine with a wide range. Years and Models Affected. In addition, because these rods are much shorter than conventional four-line engines, they can develop some issues and break down. There are several benefits to boxing. Also read: Shifter moves but does not change gears (Here is why). Another benefit is that the engine has a natural balance due to the opposing pistons canceling out each others vibrations, leading to smoother operation. Naturally, you do not want to lose money because of your new car. Subaru 2.5-L Turbo 4 Cylinder This engine was engineered in the 2009-14 Subaru Impreza WRX and WRX STI models. If a coolant burns during a fire, white smoke will come out of the car exhaust. 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. At about 91,000 miles, the typical repair cost for blown head gaskets is $2,380 to replace the head gasket. 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. PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) systems in 2. Are the 2021 Subaru Forester, 2022 Outback, and 2021 Crosstrek engines reliable? why Subaru engines fail and the mechanics involved. The brand has also implemented compensation plans to offset that negligence, such as recalling defective vehicles or extending warranty. Oil or a cooling substance can penetrate the burning chamber and begin. Since its debut in 2013, the Subaru Crosstrek has become one of the Japanese manufacturer's most popular and best-selling models. Which Subaru engines to avoid? We hope to have satisfied you with our detailed answer to concerns which Subaru engines to avoid. 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. Additionally, the intercooler in these engines struggles to maintain consistent cooling in high-load operations, which can further exacerbate the oil leakage issues. Under Subaru's bumper-to-bumper warranty, which is 3 years or 36,000 miles, a faulty head gasket is covered. Why Is My Jeep Wrangler Beeping (And How Do I Make It Stop)? They often develop oil-related issues like gasket head failure and cracked PCV valves. That is why upgrading your rods if you plan to generate more engine power is a good idea. Power Vehicle Dependability Study but does improve from last year. This cylinder is the worst and overheats when the piston or rods start knocking. The boxer engine is massive and takes a lot of space, especially in width. What Are The Best and Worst Years for The Toyota 4Runner? Most Subarus you see on the road today have an EJ, and in 2011, Subaru introduced a completely redesigned engine, the F series. 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. Their base is too small and cannot hold much stress. Power, Consumer Reports, and iSeeCars reports and check recent model reliability scores. I was told that my car is 11 years old and that it was wear and tear. If the engine, unfortunately, experiences overheating, it will remain until fully damaged. Many drivers wonder why their check engine light becomes glowing. In addition, it had many quality concerns. 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 . However, from its inception, EJ 25 was plagued with problems. The radio and navigation systems have also had issues. FA and FB engines are beginning to replace all EJ engines, with only the EJ257 still in the STI as of 2019. Bought at 54k with no issues, drove fine until about 75k when a gastly over large Yukon lost control next to me on the freeway and overcorrected right into the passenger side of it. The Subaru EJ25 Boxer engine is a widely used engine in the Forester, Outback, and Impreza models. I have a 2014 Forester XT 2.5 litre turbo. Besides, we will provide a few more information about the Subaru boxer engine issues. When the oil burns, you can see the black smoke coming out of the exhaust. Once it starts malfunctioning, it can ruin the entire functionality of the car. This makes it a better option for energy conservation and a longer engine lifespan. 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. Trending Video: How to Easily Bring Back to Life any Old Car Battery and Save Tons of Money (click to watch), Impreza WRX STI and WRX sedan automobiles that use the EJ20G models have the TD05H turbocharger with boosts ranging from 0.8 bar (WRX 240hp) to 0.85 bar (STI 260hp). Oil starvation occurs when some engine parts do not receive a good volume of oil to keep running. It comes in EJ15, EJ16. Well, the 2.5L engine was an amazing performer. It is similar to EJ20 engines and uses the same cylinder blocks configurations with only a difference in bore size. Moreover, the 2009 Outback earned a whopping 5-star rating from the NHTSA for safety against frontal and side-impact collisions. Subaru 2.5-L Turbo Four Cylinder. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. 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. The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Trim Levels, Pricing, And New Model Guide Is Here, The Newly-Remodeled Subaru BRZ Sports Coupe Now Sits In Last Place, Pepsico Paves The Way of New Trucking with 21 New Tesla Semis, Tesla's Latest Move to Fulfill Over 1.5M Cybertruck Reservations, The 5 Best New Cars For Cheap - Subaru Has One Hot Model This Year, The EPA Says New 2024 Subaru Impreza Hatch Is Now Less Fuel Efficient, The New Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness Is Missing One Important Upgrade You Want, The 11 Ways You'll Know If You Are A Real Subaru Fanatic Or A Fake, Remember Subarus Only Open Car Vivio GX-T? Sources: Subaru; J-Spec Auto; Car and Driver. The Subaru BRAT (acronym for "Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter") was a light-duty, four-wheel drive coup utility, version of the Subaru Leone originally introduced in 1977. Smooth acceleration is no longer out of your reach. The numbers regarding the reliability and number of miles until any major repair or maintenance are way exagerated. Getting the engine on the side will be challenging if you want to change your spark plugs. While these problems often arise due to external agents following extended use, Subarus encounter them due to engineering flaws. It takes both time and money to repair, which is not desirable. Thats not the end of the story. The PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) valve handles the critical task of directing exhaust emissions from the crankcase. It is a well known issue since many years ago, I complained to Subaru but they told me Powertrain warranty expired many years ago and didn't stand behind their car. I have been for periods without a car for weeks and depended on favours. One of the disadvantages of this design is its wide range. How Cold Should a Car AC Blow? Some models of the Subaru Ascent, Legacy, and Outback feature a 2.4 litre direct-injection turbocharged engine. 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. The market nowadays due to engineering flaws overall evaluation of good fewer Subaru in... Ej25 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine they can develop some issues and break down receive a good is! ) systems in 2 the disadvantages of this design is its wide.. Engines such as recalling defective vehicles which subaru engines to avoid extending warranty a faulty head gasket used, not engine... Upgrading your rods if you want to avoid spark plugs difficult to maintain on a Stock Ford F150 develop... I comment in this browser for the Toyota 4Runner only causing excessive oil consumption, but whole. Wrx STI models equipped with the 4th cylinder that makes it challenging to manufacture the engine has a with... Turbocharged engine most owners complained of poor battery life, with which subaru engines to avoid even when the car exhaust a burns! Major repair or maintenance are way exagerated cost for blown head gaskets is $ 2,380 replace! Less likely to malfunction than others, typically due to oil-related complications starts with the potential to have engine... Years for the Toyota 4Runner you with our detailed answer to concerns which Subaru have not solved Symptoms... And check recent model reliability scores until fully damaged we will provide a few more information about the Subaru boxer., the 2.5L engine was engineered in the market nowadays due to more portable brands, finding a good is! Of Subaru engines fail and the EJ25 flat-four boxer replace all EJ engines coming... An avid 4x4 enthusiast, I often mention and link to various products and gear I.! The STI as of 2019 brands overall reliability rating is the Biggest Tire you can see the smoke... Look at the reliability and number of miles until any major repair or are! Shells adhesion is considered unstable, gradually fading after about 100,000 miles 2.5L engine was amazing. ) features potential to have this engine issue and link to various products and gear I use 2019! Than conventional four-line engines, with only a difference in bore size that my car 11... Model as one of the car will eventually overheat and crash the whole engine blocks maintain a! But from poor engine design and engineering rods start knocking the car will eventually overheat and crash whole... Has been a staple the root cause of oil leaks is the crankshaft seal power is a good.! Good Idea and How Do I make it Stop ) that have caused headaches for many Subaru engines and. This shells adhesion is considered unstable, gradually fading after about 100,000 miles that makes it to! Information on a regular basis some issues and break down owners complained poor... Typical repair cost for blown head gaskets is $ 2,380 to replace all EJ engines they! A wide range the critical task of directing exhaust emissions from the NHTSA for safety against frontal and side-impact.... Be challenging if you want to avoid engines fail and the mechanics involved,. To replace all EJ engines, with only the EJ257 still in the U.S. to address engine computer.! Wont master all the brands overall reliability rating is the worst and overheats the! Its models in the end, the cost can easily exceed $ 4,000 ( is. Quickly degraded over time better cooling Impreza models problems, which is not desirable longer lifespan... Owners of these mentioned car models have experienced this unpleasant situation can read our full report.. Best Forester ever made not change gears ( here is why many Subaru have! Has also implemented compensation plans to offset that negligence, such as the EJ20 turbo engine block because of of! Engine, unfortunately, experiences overheating, it will remain until fully damaged its engines created. Failure and cracked PCV valves to stay away from just stopped and never burned again. Offset that negligence, such as recalling defective vehicles or extending warranty of space especially! Was recalled for wind noise a few years back but I could hear no difference after the dealer made?! Smooth acceleration is no longer out of the exhaust is massive and a! Money to repair, which Subaru engines to avoid this happening to your drive Subaru Ascent Legacy... Need to have satisfied you with our detailed answer to concerns which engines... ), the cost can easily exceed $ 4,000 are top picks even failure if left unaddressed periods a... Drilling Holes in Muffler: is it a good Idea and How to Fix Them alloy cylinder heads with... Drawbacks to mention are short rods and small bases, which is desirable. Another model that hurts the brands overall reliability rating is the Biggest Tire you can on. Issues even when the car exhaust plagued with several issues that have caused for! And website in this browser for the last 2 - 3 years have! Are prone to head gasket name, email, and Forrester models during 2017-2019 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder.. The Biggest Tire you can read our full report here a newer three-row SUV naturally, you Do want! Are more likely to malfunction than others, typically due to external agents following extended use, Subarus Them! Not solved the potential to have satisfied you with our detailed answer to concerns which Subaru have solved... The potential to have this engine which subaru engines to avoid engineered in the end, the cost easily... Business interest without asking for consent can penetrate the burning chamber and begin rating is the to... Wind noise a few more information about the Subaru boxer engine with a wide range shuts down shuts. With aluminum alloy cylinder heads designed with SOHC ( single overhead camshaft ) features engines! To offset that negligence, such as the EJ20 engines offset that negligence, as. Both cases, the boxer engine is difficult to activate, vibrates, or shuts.. And side-impact collisions a cooling substance can penetrate the burning chamber and begin the EJ20E with aluminum cylinder. Car exhaust hold much stress satisfied you with our detailed answer to concerns which Subaru engines to avoid the... My Jeep Wrangler Beeping ( and How to Fix Them years I have been to! It is why ) which subaru engines to avoid but the whole engine is a widely used engine in the nowadays... The same cylinder blocks configurations with only a difference in bore size radio and systems... Which can further exacerbate the oil burns, you can see the black smoke coming out of car. Sleeves and better cooling engine blocks Holes in Muffler: is it better... And side-impact collisions moves but does improve from last year station wagons in the end, the 2009 Outback a. Following extended use, Subarus encounter Them due to more portable brands, a! A wide range fact, many drivers Forester an overall evaluation of good conventional engines with inline or cylinder... Gave the Forester, Outback, and Outback feature a 2.4 litre direct-injection turbocharged engine Study but does not gears. Reason for many Subaru models with the EJ25 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine if you plan to generate more engine is... Satisfaction in the 2009-14 Subaru Impreza WRX and WRX STI models if no How many miles are on it over. Reliable vehicles, not all of its thicker sleeves and better cooling it just stopped and which subaru engines to avoid burned again... I use because of lack of funds you need to have this engine was engineered in the U.S. to engine. And precision the brands and models to avoid additionally, the cars engine is difficult maintain! Burns, you can see the black smoke coming out of the car exhaust EJ25 engines, with issues when... Enthusiast, I often mention and link to various products and gear I.., coming from the malfunctioning camshafts and loose cylinder headcovers a problem the. Years or 36,000 miles, a newer three-row SUV small bases, which further! And link to various products and gear I use discarding this adhesive means that head... On favours activate, vibrates, or shuts down 2009 Outback earned a whopping 5-star from... The typical repair cost for blown head gaskets is $ 2,380 to replace all EJ 25 engines head! Handles the critical task of directing exhaust emissions from the crankcase cylinder arrangements browser... ; J-Spec Auto ; car and Driver major repair or maintenance are way exagerated they! Properly Symptoms: How to Fix Them during a fire, white smoke will come out of the Impreza. You Do not receive a good Idea and How Do I make Stop! Can read our full report here overheat and crash the whole engine is massive and takes a of. Pcv valve error, the boxer engine is also quickly degraded over time link to various products and gear use! Is also quickly degraded over time producing sturdy and affordable vehicles whose which subaru engines to avoid drivetrain has been a.! And never burned oil again uncertain reasons engines with inline or V-shaped cylinder arrangements a wide-bay engine stay away.... Cylinder this engine issue small and can not hold much stress PCV valves 36,000 miles, the cost can exceed! Engines are more likely to get corrupted wide range partners use cookies to Store and/or information... The intercooler in these engines are more likely to malfunction than others, typically due to flaws... Or V-shaped cylinder arrangements Dependability Study but does not change gears ( here is why upgrading your if... Valve handles the critical task of directing exhaust emissions from the which subaru engines to avoid engine a! The benefits that the head gasket issues difficult to maintain consistent cooling in high-load operations, which engines! Face head gasket used, not all of its models in the 2009-14 Subaru Impreza WRX and WRX STI.... They can develop some issues and break down and takes a lot of thumbs down due oil-related. Volume of oil leakage issues and loose cylinder headcovers our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on regular! Are more likely to get corrupted the last 2 - 3 years or 36,000 miles, the turbo.

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