Parts for your 2013 Subaru Xv-Exhaust gasket

2013 Subaru XV Exhaust Gasket — What it does and when to replace it

Based on Subaru technical references — the Subaru Workshop Manual for the GP-series XV/Crosstrek (FB20 engine) and the Subaru FAST parts catalogue — the 2013 Subaru XV absolutely uses exhaust gaskets. These include the multi-layer steel exhaust manifold gaskets at the cylinder heads (e.g., Subaru 14038AA000 range) and crush-style pipe gaskets at the front pipe and mid/rear flanges (e.g., Subaru 44022AA123 donut/flange types). Aftermarket application guides from brands like Fel-Pro and Walker list matching pieces for this exact model, backing up their fitment.

On this XV, exhaust gaskets keep the exhaust sealed from the moment gases leave the engine right through to the tailpipe. They’re thin but crucial, coping with heat cycles, vibration, and a fair bit of movement between joints. When they’re in good nick, there’s no hissing, no fumes sneaking into the cabin, and the O2 sensors get clean readings so the FB20 runs sweet and fuel economy stays on point.

As part of routine servicing or whenever the exhaust is disturbed (manifold work, front pipe removal, cat-back changes), it’s best practice to replace any gasket that’s been separated. The factory manual treats most of these as single-use, especially the crush “donut” styles. Reusing old ones often leads to tiny leaks that become big annoyances — think ticking on cold start, a whiff of exhaust at idle, or a raspy note under load.

Good shops will do a quick visual and a smoke or soapy-water test while the car’s on the hoist. If the XV’s done lots of short trips or towing, or it’s seen off-road corrugations, give those joints extra attention. Hardware corrodes, flanges warp a touch, and the gasket is what takes up the slack.

• Common clues a gasket’s gone: hissing/ticking near the engine bay, soot marks at a flange, exhaust smell in the cabin, slight loss of low-end torque, or a fresh check-engine light linked to O2 readings.
• Replacement tips: use quality gaskets matched to the GP XV (FB20), clean and de-scale mating faces, replace spring bolts if tired, align the system relaxed (don’t force it), and torque everything to the workshop spec once warm, then re-check after a short run.

Look after those little seals and the XV will stay quiet, efficient, and legal on emissions — exactly how it left the factory.

Popular questions about 2013 Subaru XV exhaust gaskets

What symptoms point to a bad exhaust gasket on a 2013 Subaru XV?
Drivers often notice a sharp ticking on cold start that softens as the metal expands, a faint exhaust smell around the front of the car, or a light soot trace at a flange. The ECU can also flag fuel-trim or O2 sensor codes when leaks let extra air into the stream. Power can feel a bit flat off the line, too.

Should exhaust gaskets be replaced every time the exhaust is removed?
On this XV, yes — especially the crush “donut” and flat flange gaskets. Once compressed and heat-cycled, they rarely reseal perfectly. Subaru workshop procedures call for new gaskets on reassembly to avoid leaks, noise, and repeat visits. It’s cheap insurance compared to chasing a persistent hiss later.

Does the 2013 XV use flat flange gaskets or a donut gasket?
Both. The XV’s system uses multi-layer steel gaskets at the cylinder heads, a crush donut at the front pipe joint, and flat/ring-style gaskets at various mid and rear flanges. The exact mix depends on build and market spec, but all are readily available by VIN or engine code (FB20).