Parts for your 2016 Subaru Exiga-Head gasket

2016 Subaru Exiga head gasket: purpose, care, and when to replace

Based on technical references including the Subaru Global Service Information (GSI) for the FB25 engine (Engine Mechanical – Cylinder Head section) and the Subaru FAST electronic parts catalogue for the 2016 Exiga/Crossover 7, this model absolutely uses head gaskets—two of them, one for each cylinder bank of the 2.5‑litre FB25 boxer four. The parts catalogue lists the cylinder head gasket as a serviceable component, and the workshop manual details torque procedures and surface checks, confirming it’s a fitted and relevant part on this vehicle.

On the 2016 Subaru Exiga, the head gasket sits between the aluminium cylinder head and the engine block, sealing three critical systems at once: combustion pressure in the cylinders, engine oil galleries, and coolant passages. With the Exiga’s horizontally opposed layout, there are two heads and therefore two head gaskets. Subaru’s FB-series moved to robust multi‑layer steel (MLS) gaskets, a step up from older EJ-era designs, reducing the likelihood of weeping and mixing fluids when everything’s serviced on time.

This gasket isn’t a routine “wear” item, but keeping it happy is all about good servicing. Stick to the logbook for coolant changes with the correct Subaru‑spec long‑life coolant, and make sure air pockets are bled out after any cooling system work. Overheating is the enemy—if the temp needle climbs, pull over before things snowball. During services, a quick look for dried coolant tracks around the head-to-block seam, unexplained coolant loss, pressurised hoses from cold, or a sweet exhaust odour can help catch issues early.

If a replacement is needed, it’s a proper workshop job. Best practice is to fit genuine or OE‑quality MLS gaskets, check head flatness and surface finish, follow the factory torque sequence, and assess head bolts for condition and length per the workshop manual. It’s smart to renew related seals and consumables while in there—rocker cover gaskets, intake/exhaust gaskets, fresh coolant and oil, thermostat, and any tired hoses. Many techs prefer engine‑out on the FB25 to get clean, precise access and avoid dramas refitting.

• Watch for gradual coolant loss, overheating, or milky residue under the oil cap.
• Use the correct Subaru coolant mix