Parts for your 2015 Subaru Exiga-Head gasket

2015 Subaru Exiga Head Gasket — What It Does and How to Look After It

The 2015 Subaru Exiga absolutely uses head gaskets. Subaru’s factory technical documentation (the YA Exiga Engine section in Subaru’s Service Manual via STIS) and the Subaru FAST parts catalogue list multi‑layer steel (MLS) cylinder head gaskets for the Exiga’s flat‑four engines of the period (EJ20/FB series). With aluminium cylinder heads bolted to an aluminium block on each bank, the gasket is the critical seal between them—so it’s very much relevant on this model.

On a boxer engine like the Exiga’s, there are two head gaskets—one per side. Each gasket has three day jobs: keep combustion pressure in, keep engine oil where it belongs, and keep coolant in its own galleries. That airtight, fluid‑tight seal preserves power, prevents oil/coolant cross‑contamination, and helps the engine run at the right temperature and efficiency, kilometre after kilometre.

A head gasket isn’t a scheduled service item, but good servicing helps it live a long life. Overheating is the enemy, so staying on top of coolant quality, radiator condition, and fans is key. Owners and techs should keep an eye out for early tell‑tales and act fast to avoid bigger drama.

• Unexplained coolant loss or pressurised hoses when cold
• Overheating, fluctuating temp gauge, or weak cabin heater
• White exhaust steam after warm‑up, sweet smell, or milky oil
• Rough cold start or misfire on one bank
• Bubbles in the header tank with the cap off (engine running)

If replacement is needed, it’s a substantial job best done by someone familiar with Subaru boxers. Use OEM‑quality MLS gaskets and follow the factory torque/angle sequence for the head bolts. Heads should be checked for flatness and resurfaced if out of spec. It’s smart to tackle “while you’re there” items: timing belt and water pump on EJ engines (the FB uses a chain), thermostat, cam and rocker cover seals, intake/exhaust gaskets, and any tired hoses. Refill with Subaru‑spec long‑life blue coolant, vacuum‑fill if possible, and bleed thoroughly to prevent hot spots.

For routine servicing, stick to the correct coolant change interval, keep the radiator clean and the cap healthy, and fix any small leaks quickly. Do that, and most 2015 Exiga head gaskets will last the life of the engine.

FAQs

Does the 2015 Subaru Exiga have one or two head gaskets?

It has two—one per cylinder bank on the flat‑four engine. Each gasket seals its bank’s head to the block, handling combustion pressure, oil and coolant passages.

How long should a head gasket last on a 2015 Exiga?

With proper cooling‑system care and no overheating episodes, many go well past 200,000 km. They’re not a consumable—issues typically trace back to heat stress, low coolant, or poor previous repairs.

What’s a rough cost to replace an Exiga head gasket in AU/NZ?

Ballpark figures vary with engine variant and machine work, but a professional job commonly lands in the AUD/NZD $2,000–$4,500 range. Doing belts, pump, seals and gaskets at the same time can add cost but saves future labour.