SUBARU Impreza Cylinder head repair/replacement
Engine, Fuel & Emissions system·2003–2005 · SUBARU repair guide
Get the exact price for your SUBARU Impreza
See the fair range for your specific car
Pick your year and engine to get an instant estimate without leaving this page.
Estimates in seconds · Always confirm with a qualified mechanic
Example estimate
Cylinder head repair/replacement
Select your vehicle above to get your personalised estimate
SUBARU Impreza — What to know
The Impreza (including WRX/STI) uses Subaru's horizontally-opposed boxer engine. The naturally aspirated 2.5L EJ25 engine has a well-documented head gasket failure problem — particularly on older (2000–2010) four-cylinder models. This is the single most important reliability concern for older Impreza buyers.
What is this repair?
Plain-English overview
The cylinder head sits atop the engine block and seals the combustion chamber; a cracked or warped head causes coolant or oil mixing, overheating and loss of compression. Repair or replacement is one of the most involved engine jobs.
Warning signs
How to tell your SUBARU Impreza needs this repair
- White smoke from the exhaust (coolant burning in the combustion chamber)
- Milky or frothy oil on the dipstick or oil filler cap
- Coolant loss with no visible external leak
- Engine overheating repeatedly
- Loss of power and rough idle with coolant consumption
Common causes
Why SUBARU Impreza vehicles need this repair
- 1.Normal component wear over high mileage
- 2.Oil maintenance quality and adherence to change intervals
- 3.Operating temperature and thermal cycling over time
- 4.Age degrading seals, gaskets and rubber components
What affects the price
Why your quote may differ
- Whether the head can be skimmed and reused or needs full replacement
- Extent of damage to the block deck surface
- Timing chain or belt access labour added at the same time
- OEM vs remanufactured head
At a glance
Key facts about this repair
Labour time
8–20 hours
at a typical garage
DIY difficulty
Specialist only
Risks of ignoring this
What happens if you delay
- A minor issue becoming a significantly more expensive repair if ignored
- Secondary damage spreading to related components
- Possible roadside breakdown or sudden failure
- Failed roadworthiness inspection or MOT
Full repair guide
Everything you'd want to ask a trusted mechanic
Click any question below to expand.
Related repairs
Other engine, fuel & emissions system repairs on the SUBARU Impreza
Similar vehicles
Cylinder head repair/replacement cost on similar cars
Get the exact price for your SUBARU Impreza
Pick your year and engine below. Instant estimate, no account needed.
Estimates in seconds · Always confirm with a qualified mechanic
Example estimate
Cylinder head repair/replacement
Select your vehicle above to get your personalised estimate