Head gasket failed on 1999 Subaru at 38,000. Car was maintained religiously. Subaru recall was never sent to me. I was told my car was the 'wrong phase engine' to be covered under warranty. Car had overheated 3 months earlier. Subaru flushed the system and added 'special coolant lubricant'. this was worthless. I was told it would cost $2000+, even though my family has purchased 4 Subaru's from the same dealer. After a lot of screaming and yelling, they replaced both gaskets, radiator, thermostat and water pump. I ended up paying $250. Dealer, (wakefield surbaru, wakefield MA.) helped convinced Subaru corporate to foot most of the expense. Later when Subaru oil filters failed (leaks) and after more screaming and yelling with this dealer ship, (after they said I was making up the leak problem) I've changed dealerships who has a more professional service center.

- Malden, MA, USA

Engine and engine cooling: Blown head gaskets 1999 Subaru legacy Outback DOHC.

- Bothell, WA, USA

In October 2003, the engine of my 1999 Subaru Outback with 80,000 miles overheated, seized and required replacement. I was on the highway at the time and realized the car was losing power and the thermostat gauge was above "H". I contacted Subaru prior to the repair and was told that the problem was likely due to improper maintenance and besides, my vehicle was out of warranty. This was Subaru's response even though I regularly maintain my car. I did get the engine replaced at significant out-of-pocket expense. Last week, while traveling along the interstate, my temperature gauge again was on "H" and I quickly pulled off the road. The "check engine" light was on and I immediately shut off the engine. The car was towed to a Subaru mechanic and I was told that the head gasket had failed and needed replacement. Another significant expense after only 30,000 miles on a factory rebuilt engine. Although I am now aware that Subaru sent out a recall / notification letter in Feb. 2004, I did not receive one, apparently because I have the type of engine that may not be covered by the notification. It is clear from a review of this website that I am not alone in my complaints about the Outback's engine and cooling system, and the fact that Subaru is not standing behind its product.

- Colorado Springs, CO, USA

My 1999 Subaru Outback overheated and problem attributed to cracked head gasket. Dealer states that 99-01 are covered as warranty despite mileage if has a phase 2 engine. Mine is phase 1. trying to determine amount of similar problems.

- Manteca, CA, USA

Head gasket was leaking and needed to be replaced.

- Unknown, DC, USA

Engine make a noise. The dealer and technician diagnosis the piston was worn-out at premature mileages.

- Philomath, OR, USA