Parts for your 2016 Subaru Forester-Manifold gasket

2016 Subaru Forester manifold gasket — purpose, servicing and replacement

Yes, the 2016 Subaru Forester uses manifold gaskets. Both intake and exhaust manifold gaskets are specified for the FB25 (2.5‑litre) and FA20F (2.0‑litre turbo) engines in the Subaru 2016 Forester Service Manual and shown as serviceable items in Subaru’s Electronic Parts Catalogue. These factory technical sources identify distinct gaskets at the cylinder head–to–manifold interfaces, and, on turbo XT models, additional sealing rings at the turbo/uppipe and downpipe flanges.

A manifold gasket’s job is simple but critical: it seals the join between the manifold and the cylinder head so air and fuel get in (intake) and exhaust gases get out (exhaust) without leaks. On the intake side, a proper seal stops unmetered air sneaking in and throwing off fuel trims, rough idle and cold‑start stumble. On the exhaust side, it prevents tick‑tick leaks, hot gas erosion, fumes in the cabin and skewed oxygen sensor readings that can hammer fuel economy.

While not a routine “replace by kilometres” item, manifold gaskets on a 2016 Forester should be renewed any time the manifold is removed, or when there are signs of leakage. Genuine or OE‑quality gaskets are recommended, they’re designed for Subaru’s thermal expansion and bolt load patterns. RTV sealant isn’t a substitute unless the Subaru manual explicitly calls for it at a specific joint.

• Common clues a Forester needs manifold gaskets: hissing or whistling at idle, a ticking exhaust note on cold start, black soot at the exhaust flange, lean mixture codes (like P0171), high long‑term fuel trims, or a raw exhaust smell under the bonnet.
• Good workshop practice: clean mating faces, check studs and nuts, replace any warped heat shields, and torque bolts in the specified sequence and stages. A cross‑pattern, step‑up approach helps keep the seal even.

Owners in Aussie and Kiwi conditions—think long hot runs, towing and corrugations—may see gasket fatigue sooner. It’s smart to inspect during bigger jobs (e.g., PCV or EGR service, turbo work on XT models). If there’s any doubt, new gaskets are low‑cost insurance against drivability dramas and WOF/roadworthy headaches.

Note for XT (FA20F) models: besides the head‑to‑manifold gaskets, there are additional turbo/uppipe and downpipe gaskets that should be replaced whenever those joints are disturbed.

Popular questions about 2016 Subaru Forester manifold gaskets

Do all 2016 Foresters have both intake and exhaust manifold gaskets?
Yes. Non‑turbo FB25 models have intake and exhaust manifold gaskets at the cylinder heads. Turbo XT (FA20F) models have those plus extra sealing rings at the turbo and pipe flanges. All are listed in Subaru’s parts catalogue and covered for torque specs in the service manual.

What are the tell‑tale signs a manifold gasket is failing?
Drivers may notice a hissing intake noise, surging idle, lean codes or high fuel trims if the intake side is leaking. Exhaust side leaks usually sound like a sharp tick on cold start, may leave black soot at the flange and can push fumes under the bonnet. Fuel economy can dip and the vehicle may feel a bit doughy off the line.

Is it safe to keep driving with a leaking manifold gasket?
It’s not ideal. Intake leaks can lean out mixtures and stress the engine, exhaust leaks can overheat nearby components and allow fumes into the cabin. It can also affect emissions and could fail a WOF/roadworthy. Short trips to a workshop are generally fine, but timely repair is the go.