When you own a Subaru, chances are you've heard of a Head Gasket. But what are they and why do Subaru owners need to know about them?
A Head Gasket is a gasket that sits between the engine block and cylinder head(s) in an internal combustion engine. Its purpose is to seal the cylinders to ensure maximum compression and avoid leakage of coolant or engine oil into the cylinders. The Head Gasket in modern vehicles is comprised of several layers of steel material entwined with elastomer, making them more durable and longer lasting.
The Head Gasket ensures the pressure created from the spark plug’s ignition of fuel vapors remain within the combustion chamber. The combustion chamber contains the pistons and needs a high amount of pressure to ensure the pistons continue to fire appropriately. Oil and coolant have equally important jobs, but in order to perform their tasks efficiently, they cannot mix. The Head Gasket keeps the chambers separated to ensure there is no cross-contamination of fluids.
Blown Head Gaskets
One of the most common causes of a "Blown" or Damaged Head Gasket, is an engine that has gotten too hot. High engine temperatures are usually caused by a lack of coolant within the radiator, usually caused by a leak. Once the gasket blows, it is no longer able to act as a seal and will allow pressure to escape, significantly reducing the engine’s power. Oil and coolant may begin to leak and mix into areas where they shouldn’t be. When coolant enters the combustion chambers, it mixes and dilutes the engine oil which can cause the engine to overheat.
Common Head Gasket Symptoms
1. External Oil Leak
2. Discolored Oil
3. Engine Overheating
4. White, Blue, or Grey smoke
5. Unexplained Loss of Engine Coolant Without An Obvious Sign of Leakage
6. Loss of Power
Change Your Oil
During an Oil Change, each head gasket is inspected to check for early warning signs of failure. Early detection of Failed Head Gaskets is important to prevent damage to your engine, and avoid costly repairs.
Dirty Oil is the most common contributor to premature Subaru Head Gasket Failure.
By following proper Maintenance Schedules, using OEM Equivalent parts and Regularly Checking the Oil in your Subaru, you will not only help to prevent Head Gasket Failure, but also help to prolong the life of your Subaru.
Reincarnation Inc. The Subaru Guys is proud to offer professional, affordable, and reliable Subaru Head Gasket Repair in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Our team of ASE Certified Mechanics perform Digital Inspections on Subaru, Toyota, Honda, Mazda, Volvo, and Lexus to accurately diagnose and repair your Import Vehicle.
Call the shop today to speak to our Award-Winning team about your Automotive Service and Repair needs.
The Subaru Guys
1300 2nd Street NW
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87102
505-933-9293