Subaru — Reno mechanic recommendations?

[frorider]

GF’s ‘06 outback running strong at 150k but I’d like to get head gasket done proactively.

[Harry]

Why ?

My understanding is that if they make it to 100K that means they probably won't blow. Not every Subaru has bad gaskets. Plenty of 300K+ Subarus with original head gaskets.



Edit: this link says that for your year, once you are past 40K they probably won't blow.
https://scanneranswers.com/the-truth...sket-problems/

Sent from my iPhone using TGR Forums

[jorion]

The head gaskets of that era usually go between 80k and 120k miles. I bought a used ‘06 outback that had already had its head gasket replaced (around 120k) thinking I would be good, but the head gasket went again at around 170k. I guess when they repaired it the first time they didn’t use a mls gaskets and/or didn’t send the head to the machine shop.

I don’t think it makes sense to preemptively replace the head gaskets, especially at that age. From everything I’ve read it, it’s unlikely they would’ve lasted that long and then would go. For another, the cost of doing the job is close to the value of an ‘06 with that mileage. And lastly, it’s something that you should be able to see coming if you keep an eye on it. Right after shutoff, you’ll be able to see bubbles in the coolant if the gaskets are starting to go. Burning a lot of oil is another sign, although that generation of Subarus also burn a lot of oil anyway, as you probably know. If you’re really paranoid you can also buy a cheap testing kit that you hold over the coolant reservoir while idling. If the head gasket is failing it will change colors.

I’ve had the pleasure of two head gaskets going on outbacks I’ve owned. If you ever see the check engine light flashing or the temp gauge climbing pull over and get a tow. As long as you catch it before the engine overheats it shouldnt cost you more than preemptively doing it.

[frorider]

. If you ever see the check engine light flashing or the temp gauge climbing pull over and get a tow.

It has no cooling issues or early indications of failure, but a) she really likes driving a stick shift AWD non SUV wagon...dying breed b) she’s often squeezing in ski outings during a Tahoe blizzard...not a stellar time to get a tow from Kirkwood c) I’ve heard of $1500 gasket / pump jobs, which is no big deal in the scheme of things.

[bodywhomper]

Do the 2006 gaskets go catastrophically? Mine (01) slowly went over 30k, ie there was a slight oil leak at the gasket over 30k miles, until finally some coolant showed.

Also, doesn’t a new gasket change compression? Will increased compression lead to other issues that could be currently no big deal like typical piston slap of a subi at 160k?

[splat]

The engine gets yanked and stripped to do those gaskets.
Chances of something else going wrong afterward is notable enough to wait, imho.

[LT]

Take it to Norm's Subaru off 3rd street in S. Lake Tahoe. IMHO they are the best Subaru shop in the area; honest, knowledgeable and fair priced. They've done two head gaskets for us, our 2005 and our 2010. We've been taking our Subaru's to them since 2002. At minimum you could tell them your concerns, schedule an appointment and they'll give you a visual assessment of the gasket based on weeping at the gasket etc.

[sruffian]

The best Subaru place in Reno is independent auto over in sparks. Those guys legit quoted me more than the dealer in Carson to do head gaskets (and timing belt etc) though.

I take my cars to independent specialists on grove behind rei. They are very reliable honest and straightforward. Not the cheapest but fair prices and they stand behind their work. You will have to book weeks ahead for gaskets most likely - I like mechanics that don’t NEED my business or money and have more at stake in reputation. Steve over there is the man.


Sent from my iPhone using TGR Forums

[dookeyXXX]

... b) she’s often squeezing in ski outings during a Tahoe blizzard...not a stellar time to get a tow from Kirkwood ...

tell her to start skiing Rose instead of KW.
It's closer and the potential towing cost is less.

[splat]

tell her to start skiing Rose instead of KW.
It's closer and the potential towing cost is less.

Yeah, but it sounds like it's maybe cheaper than a head gasket. )

[AKbruin]

Motor Menders in Sparks has done well by me. Tanager Street Auto Services in Incline is also very solid (Rico in particular), although it's generally more expensive than Reno/Sparks. The important thing is to avoid the Reno dealership service departments. It's been my experience and others' that those guys uniformly suck.