Parts for your 2016 Subaru Exiga-Radiator cap

2016 Subaru Exiga radiator cap: fitment, purpose and easy servicing tips

Yes — the 2016 Subaru Exiga uses a pressure-type radiator cap. On this model, the cap is fitted to the high-mounted coolant filler/header tank rather than directly on the radiator neck, but it performs the same pressure-control job. This layout is shown in Subaru service information for the FB-series engines used in the Exiga, which includes a specific “radiator cap inspection” procedure, and it’s supported by the Subaru electronic parts catalogue that lists a “Cap – Radiator” for Exiga/Crossover 7 variants. The owner’s manual also cautions against removing the cap when hot, another clear indicator the vehicle employs a pressurised cap.

For the 2016 Exiga, that pressure cap is a small but critical bit of kit. It seals and pressurises the cooling system so the coolant’s boiling point is raised, helping the engine keep its cool on long Kiwi and Aussie drives, steep climbs, or when towing. Inside the cap are two valves: one holds pressure up to the rated kPa so the coolant doesn’t boil early, and the other lets coolant return from the overflow bottle as things cool down, preventing air pockets. If the cap weakens, the system can’t stay at the right pressure, which can lead to overheating, coolant loss, or hoses collapsing as the engine cools.

As part of routine servicing, a quick look and a simple test go a long way. Under the bonnet, check the cap’s rubber seals for nicks, flattening, or crusty deposits, make sure the spring-loaded centre moves freely. A workshop can pressure-test the cap to confirm it holds the specified rating for the Exiga’s engine family (Subaru service material specifies a cap pressure and provides a pass/fail range for the FB engine line). If it doesn’t hold pressure or the seals are tired, replacement is cheap insurance. Stick with an OE-spec cap matched to the original pressure rating and neck style on the Exiga’s header tank.

Only remove the cap when the engine is stone cold. Wrap it with a rag and turn slowly to the first stop to vent any residual pressure. When refilling or bleeding, use the correct Subaru long-life coolant and run the heater on hot to help purge air, topping up at the header tank as bubbles clear. In everyday terms: inspect at each service, test every couple of years, and replace the cap at the first sign of weakness — or proactively around the 4–5 year/100,000 km mark for peace of mind.

• Signs it’s time: coolant smell, damp staining near the cap, overflow bottle overfilling, collapsed upper hose after cool-down, or rising temps under load.
• Fitment note: on the Exiga, the cap sits on the upper filler/header tank — this is normal Subaru design and fully equivalent to a traditional radiator-neck cap.

Popular questions about the 2016 Subaru Exiga radiator cap

Does the 2016 Exiga actually have a radiator cap?
It does. Subaru mounts the pressure cap on a high-point coolant filler/header tank instead of the radiator neck. Subaru’s service procedures include a radiator cap inspection for the FB engine, and the parts catalogue lists a “Cap – Radiator” for this model, confirming it’s a serviceable item.

What pressure rating cap should be used?
Use a cap that matches the original Subaru specification for the Exiga’s engine and header tank. Workshops can check the exact kPa rating from Subaru parts data for your VIN. Using an incorrect pressure can cause premature hose, tank, or heater core issues, or allow early boil-over.

How often should the radiator cap be replaced?
There’s no strict time-only interval in many schedules, but Subaru service information calls for inspection and testing. In practice, test every couple of years and replace at the first sign of seal wear or test failure. Many owners choose to renew the cap around 4–5 years or 100,000 km as preventative maintenance.