Parts for your 2017 Subaru Impreza-Head gasket

Understanding the Head Gasket in the 2017 Subaru Impreza

The 2017 Subaru Impreza features an engine design that incorporates a head gasket, a critical component in the engine's overall function. The head gasket may not be something most drivers think about every day, but it plays an essential role in ensuring the engine runs smoothly and reliably. For anyone looking after their 2017 Impreza, it's worth understanding what the head gasket does, why it matters, and when it might need attention.

At its core, the head gasket sits between the engine block and the cylinder head. It acts as a seal that keeps the internal combustion process contained while also preventing the mixing of coolant, oil, and combustion gases. Without the head gasket, the engine would leak fluids, lose compression, and ultimately fail to run.

The 2017 Subaru Impreza typically comes with either a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated boxer engine or a 2.0-litre turbocharged boxer engine, depending on the model and trim. Both these flat-four engines use a cast iron block with aluminium cylinder heads, where the head gasket is essential to maintaining a tight, durable seal between these two components. Subaru engines are well known for their boxer layout, which provides a lower centre of gravity and unique engine packaging, but despite this distinct design, a head gasket remains vital.

Why is the head gasket so important? When the engine is running, high-pressure combustion gases are generated inside each cylinder. The head gasket must ensure these gases do not escape into the coolant passages or the oil galleries, as this would cause loss of engine power, overheating or contamination of the engine oil. Equally, it must prevent coolant and oil from mixing, which can seriously damage the engine and lead to expensive repairs.

For owners of a 2017 Subaru Impreza, one thing to keep in mind is that Subaru has had some history of head gasket issues in previous generations, though the 2017 model engines tend to be more robust. This makes it even more important to observe regular service intervals and watch for any signs that the head gasket may be wearing out or failing.

Typical symptoms of a failing head gasket could include:

• White smoke coming from the exhaust, which usually indicates coolant entering the combustion chamber
• Engine overheating without obvious cooling system leaks
• Milky or frothy oil on the dipstick or under the oil filler cap, suggesting coolant and oil mixing
• Loss of engine power or rough running since compression suffers if the seal is compromised
• Bubbling in the radiator or coolant overflow tank due to combustion gases leaking into the cooling system

Addressing any head gasket issues early is crucial. When it comes to replacing the head gasket on a 2017 Subaru Impreza, the job is quite involved. The entire cylinder head must be removed, cleaned, checked for warping or cracks, and then a new gasket fitted carefully. Because the head gasket maintains the seal between surfaces that undergo extreme heat and pressure, selecting a quality replacement gasket and proper torqueing of the head bolts is a must.

Subaru recommends checking the head gasket as part of regular service intervals, especially if the vehicle shows any of the above symptoms. While head gaskets do not require routine replacement under normal use, ensuring the cooling system is working well and that the engine oil is clean and regularly changed can help prevent premature gasket failure.

To help keep the head gasket in good shape, Impreza owners should:

1. Maintain cooling system health by checking coolant levels and condition regularly, and flushing the system as per the service schedule
2. Use the correct type of engine oil specified by Subaru to ensure proper lubrication and cooling of engine components
3. Avoid overheating the engine by monitoring temperature gauges and addressing any cooling issues quickly
4. Follow service schedules diligently and have the engine inspected by a qualified technician if any worrying symptoms arise

Overall, the head gasket in the 2017 Subaru Impreza is a vital part contributing to the longevity and efficiency of the engine. While it might seem like a small piece, neglecting its maintenance or ignoring warning signs can lead to costly repairs down the track. Regular upkeep of the cooling system and prompt attention to engine performance can go a long way in keeping the head gasket and the engine happy for many kilometres on the road.