Parts for your 2016 Subaru Impreza-Manifold gasket

2016 Subaru Impreza manifold-gasket: what it does and when to replace it

Yes, a manifold gasket is absolutely used on the 2016 Subaru Impreza. On FB20-equipped 2016 models, Subaru’s service literature specifies both intake manifold gaskets and exhaust manifold-to-cylinder-head gaskets, along with related seals like the throttle body gasket. The Subaru 2016MY Impreza Service Manual (Engine/Intake and Engine/Exhaust sections) calls for replacing these gaskets whenever the manifolds are removed and reinstalled. The Subaru genuine parts catalogue for the FB20 likewise lists intake manifold gaskets and exhaust manifold gaskets as service parts. In short: manifold gaskets are relevant, fitted, and critical to reliable running.

What do they do? The intake manifold gaskets seal the join between the intake runners and the cylinder heads, keeping unmetered air out so the ECU can manage fuelling properly. The exhaust manifold gaskets seal hot, high‑pressure exhaust gases as they leave the head, preventing leaks that can trigger oxygen sensor faults, blow noisy under load, and in worst cases heat up nearby components. When these gaskets age, flatten, or get nicked during work, they can create vacuum leaks (intake) or exhaust leaks (exhaust), knocking engine performance and economy.

For servicing a 2016 Impreza, it’s smart to treat manifold gaskets as single‑use parts. Any time the intake or exhaust manifold is off—for example during spark plug, valve cover, EGR, or catalytic work—new gaskets should go in. Subaru’s technical notes emphasise clean, flat mating faces and correct torque sequence/values on reassembly. Using quality OEM‑spec gaskets and a torque wrench pays off with quiet, leak‑free operation.

• Common clues a gasket’s had it: rough idle, high or unstable idle speed, whistling or ticking on cold start, sulphury exhaust smell in the engine bay, soot traces at the flange, lean mixture codes (P0171), or pre‑cat O2 sensor anomalies.
• Good practice: inspect during major services (e.g., 100,000 km), check manifold fastener torque if accessible, and replace gaskets proactively when other adjacent work is done. Don’t use sealant unless the service manual explicitly calls for it.
• After replacement: clear fault codes, perform an idle relearn if required, and re‑check for leaks once heat‑cycled.

With fresh manifold gaskets fitted to spec, the 2016 Impreza runs smoother, quieter, and keeps its emissions gear happy—just how it left the factory.

Popular questions about 2016 Subaru Impreza manifold gaskets

Does the 2016 Impreza actually have intake and exhaust manifold gaskets?
Yes. Subaru’s 2016MY Impreza service manual and OEM parts catalogue list intake manifold gaskets and exhaust manifold-to-head gaskets on FB20 engines. They’re considered replace-once-removed items and are essential for proper sealing and ECU fuel control.

What symptoms point to a failing manifold gasket on a 2016 Impreza?
For intake, think rough or high idle, lean codes, and a faint whistle. For exhaust, look for a ticking sound on cold start that softens as it warms, soot marks at the flange, or an exhaust smell in the bay. Any of these warrant inspection and likely gasket replacement.

How often should the manifold gaskets be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval