Parts for your 2013 Subaru Exiga-Head gasket

2013 Subaru Exiga head gasket — what it does and when to sort it

Yes, the 2013 Subaru Exiga uses head gaskets. Subaru’s factory service manuals for the Exiga YA-series (EJ20/EJ25 and FB25 engines) include full “Cylinder Head” procedures specifying the cylinder head gasket and torque sequence, and Subaru’s FAST electronic parts catalogue lists “Gasket – Cylinder Head” in group 11044 for Exiga applications. Subaru technical bulletins for EJ-series engines also discuss coolant seepage from head gaskets, confirming the part’s relevance on these boxers. So, whether the Exiga in question is a 2.0‑litre or 2.5‑litre petrol flat‑four, there’s a head gasket at each bank.

On the 2013 Exiga, the head gasket’s job is to seal combustion pressure while keeping engine oil and coolant in their proper passages. With Subaru’s horizontally‑opposed layout, there are two cylinder heads and therefore two gaskets. When they’re healthy, you get clean combustion, stable temps, and long engine life. When they’re tired, you may see coolant seepage, misfires, overheating, or that dreaded milkshake in the oil.

Head gaskets aren’t a routine service item, but smart maintenance goes a long way. Keep the cooling system in top nick: use the correct Subaru long‑life coolant, replace it at the recommended interval, ensure the radiator cap seals properly, and never ignore a rising temp gauge. Overheating is enemy number one for gaskets. If Subaru specifies a cooling system conditioner for your exact EJ application, use it as directed, don’t add sealants otherwise.

• Watch for early signs: faint coolant smell after a drive, low overflow bottle level, fine bubbles in the bottle at hot idle, unexplained heater performance changes, or oil/coolant cross‑contamination.
• If symptoms appear, ask for a cooling system pressure test, chemical block test, and a cylinder leak‑down before tearing in.

When replacement is needed, a proper job matters. That means genuine‑quality multi‑layer steel gaskets, clean and flat mating surfaces (have the heads checked and lightly machined if required), and following Subaru’s torque‑angle sequence. Most techs fit new head bolts, cam and rocker cover seals, intake/exhaust gaskets, and a fresh thermostat. On EJ‑belt engines, it’s the perfect time to do the timing belt, idlers, and water pump. On chain‑drive FB engines, inspect the pump and hoses while access is easy. Done right, a refreshed Exiga boxer will happily clock up many more kilometres under the bonnet.

Popular questions about 2013 Subaru Exiga head gaskets

How many head gaskets does a 2013 Exiga have?
Being a flat‑four, it’s got two — one per cylinder head. Both should be assessed and, if required, replaced together to keep things even and reliable.

What are the first signs a head gasket is going?
Common early clues include a sweet coolant smell, slow coolant loss with no obvious leak, small bubbles in the overflow bottle at hot idle, or a misfire on cold start. Overheating or milky oil are later, more serious signs.

Is head gasket replacement a normal service item?
No. It’s only done when testing confirms a problem. Good coolant, a healthy radiator cap, and avoiding overheating help prevent issues and extend gasket life.