Parts for your 2019 Subaru Impreza-Head gasket

2019 Subaru Impreza head gasket: what it does and how to look after it

Yes, the 2019 Subaru Impreza uses a cylinder head gasket. This is documented in the Subaru Service Manual (2019MY Impreza, FB engine—Cylinder Head and Gasket procedures via Subaru Technical Information System), reflected in Subaru Genuine Parts catalogues listing a “Gasket – Cylinder Head” for the FB20 2.0‑litre boxer, and supported by engineering literature on the FB engine family (for example, the SAE technical paper on the new Subaru boxer engine architecture) describing multi‑layer steel head gaskets used between the aluminium block and heads.

On this model’s 2.0‑litre FB20 engine, the head gasket sits between each cylinder head and the engine block, sealing three critical paths at once: combustion pressure in the cylinders, coolant running through galleries, and engine oil moving to and from the valvetrain. Being a flat‑four (boxer) with aluminium castings, thermal cycling and clamping loads are significant, so the factory multi‑layer steel gasket and correct bolt torque are vital to keep everything leak‑free over hundreds of thousands of kilometres.

Good servicing helps the gasket live a long, quiet life. Sticking to the manufacturer’s schedule for coolant and oil changes, using the correct Subaru‑approved long‑life coolant and the specified oil grade, keeps corrosion, aeration, and hotspots at bay. Workshop checks that matter include cooling‑system pressure tests, looking for combustion gases in the coolant, and monitoring for unexplained coolant loss. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions—long highway runs, steep climbs, and hot summers—an eye on temperature and a healthy radiator, fans, and thermostat are worth their weight in gold.

Replacement is a proper workshop job. Expect cylinder head removal, inspection, and machining if required, new OEM‑spec MLS head gaskets, and fresh seals for anything disturbed. Head bolts are torque‑to‑yield on this engine and are typically replaced