My investigations came up with the same. Subaru didn't have the right cooling system so the engine got hotter than the narrow gasket surface could handle and numerous blown head gaskets are the result. Because of the head gasket issue alone The Subarus were marginally better than Volvos for reliability. Many loyal Subaru owners believe Subaru has known it to be a design flaw yet refused to issue a recall.


Supposedly the H-6 engine does not have the same issues. The engines had enough material for the gasket to do its job.

Last edited by cmonty72; 02/05/10 03:29 AM.
96 Montero LS 24V DOHC 3.0L.
98 Montero 24v SOHC 3.5L, factory rear locker, Winter/tow package.
63 Jaguar XKE 3.8L FHC
2000 Mercedes-Benz e430
07 fj cruiser