Parts for your 2022 Subaru Impreza-Head gasket

2022 Subaru Impreza head-gasket — what it does and when to act

Yes, the 2022 Subaru Impreza uses head gaskets. Technical sources including Subaru’s FB‑series Engine Service Manual (FB20) and the Subaru FAST parts catalogue/TechInfo confirm the 2.0‑litre FB20D horizontally opposed (boxer) engine runs multi‑layer steel (MLS) head gaskets—one per cylinder head, because the boxer layout has two heads. So a head gasket is absolutely relevant to this model.

The head gasket’s job is to seal three critical paths between the aluminium cylinder head and the engine block: combustion pressure, engine oil, and coolant. On the Impreza’s boxer engine, the MLS gasket manages heat cycles and clamping loads across a wide, flat interface, keeping compression tight while preventing oil and coolant from mixing or leaking. When it’s healthy, you’ll never notice it, when it fails, it can cause overheating, rough running, or costly damage.

It isn’t a routine “service item” like oil or filters. Instead, caring for the cooling system protects the gasket for the long haul. Stick to the service schedule, run Genuine long‑life coolant, and keep an eye on small leaks before they become big dramas. If the Impreza overheats—even once—pull over, let it cool under the bonnet, and sort the cause quickly. Heat is the head gasket’s worst enemy.

• Common warning signs: unexplained coolant loss, sweet smell or steam from the exhaust, bubbling in the overflow, oily film in the coolant, milky residue under the oil cap, misfires on cold start, or rising temps at highway speeds.

If a replacement is needed, a proper workshop will pressure‑test the cooling system, test for combustion gases in the coolant, and check head flatness. Best practice on these engines is to use OEM‑spec MLS gaskets, follow the factory torque/angle sequence, and replace head bolts if specified by the manual. It’s smart to renew associated bits while you’re there—thermostat, radiator cap, coolant, and any brittle hoses—plus fresh engine oil and filter after the job. If the head has warped, light machining to spec is required before refitting. A Subaru‑trained technician with the correct procedures and torque tools will save headaches and keep the FB20 running sweet for many more kilometres.

Does the 2022 Subaru Impreza have a head gasket?

It does. The 2.0L FB20D boxer uses a multi‑layer steel head gasket on each cylinder head, as outlined in Subaru’s FB‑series service information and parts catalogues. Two heads means two gaskets.

What are early signs of a failing head gasket on this model?

Look for slow coolant loss with no external drip, white steam from the exhaust after warm‑up, bubbles in the coolant reservoir, unexplained overheating, or milky residue under the oil cap. A cooling‑system gas test can confirm combustion gases in the coolant.

How much does a head‑gasket job typically cost in AU/NZ?

Ballpark figures vary with labour rates and what’s needed (machining, bolts, thermostat, hoses), but many owners see AUD/NZD 2,500–5,500 for a thorough, warrantyable repair using OEM parts. A precise quote needs inspection and test results.