Solving Leaking Head Gaskets in Subaru Outbacks with Fluid

I have a 2000 Subaru Outback. When I bought the car, it had 80K miles; shortly after buying it I learned that most 2000 Outbacks have head gasket “issues.” I took the car to the Subaru dealership, but the head gaskets were only “moist.” Now, at 110K, the gaskets are leaking. The Subaru dealership wants to pour some kind of fluid into the car that is supposed to seal the leaks and solve the problem. This seems rather suspect to me. Does anyone know a) whether this stuff actually works and if so, how long it works, and b) anything at all about this head gasket issue? Thanks so much!

That liquid is a sealant that was developed by Fuji Heavy Industries for that specific problem. As to how well it works, I cannot say.

However, if there is no evidence of contamination of your motor oil with coolant at this point, you might want to give the sealant a try before spending the big bucks to replace both head gaskets.

Thanks - this makes me feel better about trying it. Is it meant to last?

Leaking head gaskets are a common problem in Subarus of certain years with the 2.5 Liter engine. Not every car has this problem, but many do. I would let the dealer add whatever miracle liquid they have and see what happens. What have you got to lose? If it works you save a ton of money. How long it will last is anyone’s guess.

It is meant to last, but–as with most other things in life–whether it does last for a long period of time is anyone’s guess.