Parts for your 2013 Subaru Forester-Exhaust gasket

2013 Subaru Forester exhaust gasket

Technical references from the Subaru Service Manual for the SH chassis (Exhaust section), Subaru’s genuine parts catalogue, and mainstream aftermarket catalogues (e.g., Walker Exhaust, Fel‑Pro) all show that the 2013 Subaru Forester uses several exhaust gaskets. These include manifold‑to‑cylinder‑head gaskets, ring or “donut” gaskets at spring‑bolt joints, and flange gaskets further downstream. Turbo variants also use a turbo outlet gasket. So an exhaust gasket is absolutely relevant and fitted on this model.

The exhaust gasket’s job is simple but vital: it seals the joins in the Forester’s exhaust so hot gases don’t leak before they reach the catalytic converter and mufflers. On the 2013 Forester (FB25 non‑turbo and applicable turbo models), proper sealing keeps noise down, prevents exhaust odour creeping into the cabin, protects nearby components from heat, and ensures the O2 sensors and cat see the right gas flow for clean running and good fuel economy.

There’s no fixed service interval for exhaust gaskets, but they’re a common “replace on disturbance” item. Any time the exhaust is dropped—say for clutch work, gearbox removal, front pipe, cat, or muffler replacement—fresh gaskets should go in. The crush style (donut) gaskets are designed to conform once, reusing them risks leaks. Manifold gaskets are multi‑layer steel on most Foresters and should be renewed if the manifold comes off.

Good workshops in Australia and New Zealand will typically: clean mating faces, fit new gaskets dry (no sealant unless the Subaru procedure explicitly calls for it), replace spring bolts and springs if fatigued, and tighten evenly to the factory torque specs from the Subaru manual. After first heat cycle, a quick recheck of accessible fasteners can help if a slight weep is suspected.

Owners can keep an ear and nose out for tell‑tales:

• A sharp ticking on cold start that softens as it warms up
• Sooty marks at a joint, or a whiff of exhaust around the engine bay or underbody
• Hiss or chuff under load, or a sudden increase in exhaust volume
• Check‑engine light with fuel trim or O2 sensor codes due to false air

If any of these show up, it’s worth booking the Forester for an inspection. Driving with a leak can let fumes into the cabin, skew sensor readings, and may risk a WOF/rego knock‑back.

Popular questions about 2013 Subaru Forester exhaust gaskets

Where are the exhaust gaskets on a 2013 Forester?

This model typically has gaskets at the manifold‑to‑head, a donut at the manifold/front pipe spring‑joint, and further flange or ring gaskets at the front/centre pipe and centre/muffler joints. Turbo variants add a turbo outlet gasket. Exact count depends on engine and exhaust configuration.

What are the signs of a blown exhaust gasket, and is it safe to drive?

Common signs are a ticking or hissing noise (especially when cold), exhaust odour, visible soot at a joint, and sometimes a check‑engine light from O2 sensor readings. Short local trips might be possible, but it’s not ideal—fumes, heat, and sensor/catalyst issues can follow, and it may fail inspection.

Should sealant be used with Subaru exhaust gaskets?

Generally, no. Subaru exhaust gaskets are designed to seal dry when faces are clean and hardware is torqued correctly. Only use sealant if a specific factory procedure for that joint calls for it, otherwise it can interfere with proper seating.