Oil Pan Replacement Cost For Subaru Owners

The cost of replacing an oil pan for a Subaru varies depending on the model and year of the car. For example, the cost of replacing the oil pan for a 2004 Subaru Outback is estimated to be between $740.53 and $1092.38, while the cost of replacing the oil pan gasket for a 2002 Subaru Outback is estimated to be between $436.58 and $606.06. The average cost of an oil pan replacement for a Subaru Forester is $413, while the average cost of an oil pan replacement in general is estimated to be between $677 and $766. The price of a new oil pan is likely to be under $100.

Average replacement cost

The average cost of an oil pan replacement for a Subaru vehicle ranges from $315 to $413, with parts costing between $175 and $238, and labor costing between $140 and $238. The price may vary depending on location and the specific model of your Subaru. For example, the shop/dealer price for a 2007 Subaru Outback 2.5L Turbo oil pan replacement is estimated to be between $708.64 and $985.39.

It is important to note that repairing an oil pan can be a complicated and dirty task, often requiring the removal of multiple components to access the oil pan. In some cases, the suspension sub-frame may need to be disassembled, which can take several hours. Therefore, it is recommended to have the oil pan replaced by a professional mechanic to avoid further complications.

Additionally, there are other related repairs that may be needed along with the oil pan replacement. For instance, the oil pump pickup screen should be checked and cleaned if necessary. Moreover, if the oil pan drain plug threads are damaged, a repair shop can attempt to repair them instead of replacing the entire oil pan.

The oil pan holds the motor oil that lubricates the engine. While the oil pan is typically durable and can last the lifetime of the car, it can be damaged by a sharp impact with a hard surface, leading to leaks. If you notice oil puddles or streaks of oil underneath your vehicle, it is crucial to have the oil pan inspected and replaced if necessary to avoid costly engine repairs.

Parts and labour costs

The cost of replacing an oil pan for a Subaru vehicle varies depending on the model and year of the car. For example, the cost of replacing the oil pan on a 2004 Subaru Outback is estimated to be between $740.53 and $1092.38, while the cost of replacing the oil pan on a 2016 Subaru Forester is estimated to be between $923.70 and $1320.73. The average cost of an oil pan replacement for a Subaru Outback is $315, with $175 for parts and $140 for labor. Similarly, the average cost of an oil pan replacement for a Subaru Forester is $413, with $175 for parts and $238 for labor.

The cost of replacing an oil pan gasket for a Subaru Outback is estimated to be between $436.58 and $712.25, with an average cost of $209, including $69 for parts and $140 for labor. The price of an oil pan gasket replacement may vary depending on the location and the complexity of the repair.

In some cases, it may be possible to replace the oil pan gasket without replacing the entire oil pan. This can be a more cost-effective option, as the parts required for an oil pan gasket replacement are typically less expensive than the parts required for a full oil pan replacement.

It's worth noting that the oil pan gasket can be made out of various materials and that it's important to verify that the gasket is leaking directly and not just collecting oil from a different leak. Additionally, whenever the oil pan is removed, it is recommended to have the oil pump pickup screen checked for debris and cleaned if necessary.

In terms of labor, replacing an oil pan can be a complex and time-consuming task. On average, it takes around 4 hours for a technician to replace an oil pan on a Subaru vehicle. The labor costs may vary depending on the location, the experience of the technician, and the accessibility of the oil pan bolts. In some cases, it may be necessary to support the engine and remove the subframe to access the oil pan, requiring specialized tools and skills.

DIY vs. professional replacement

The oil pan holds all the motor oil that keeps your engine lubricated. While it's a durable part that can last the lifetime of the car, a sharp impact with a hard surface at high speed can cause the oil pan to start leaking. The oil pan gasket can also wear out.

Repairing an oil pan can be a dirty and complicated undertaking. In many cases, there are items that need to be removed to fully access the oil pan, which can include suspension sub-frames that can take several hours to disassemble and reassemble.

While some people opt to replace their oil pans themselves, this can be a challenging task. The process can be very simple or require the major disassembly of your Subaru, depending on the accessibility of the oil pan bolts and the ease of removing the old pan and installing the new one. On average, it takes around four hours for a technician to replace an oil pan.

If you have the right tools and knowledge, you can save money by replacing the oil pan yourself. However, if the job is not done correctly, it can lead to costly repairs or even a new engine.

• Drain the oil: Place a drain pan under your Subaru, undo the oil filter and oil drain plug, and let the old oil drain out completely.
• Remove the oil pan bolt and oil pan: Gently remove the oil pan bolt, being careful not to damage the oil pick-up located inside the oil pan. Then, remove the oil pan.
• Clean the surfaces: Wipe clean the lower engine block, oil pan, and motor mount, and let them dry for a few minutes.
• Apply sealant and the new gasket: Once the surfaces are dry, apply a thin film of RTV (silicone rubber) to the mounting surface. Then, position the replacement oil sump gasket against the mounting surface and apply pressure.
• Secure the gasket and reinstall the oil pan bolt: Take a few strands of a 3-4 inch long wire, peel off the insulation, and twist them loosely around the new gasket to keep it from moving. Next, install the pan bolt and untwist the wire strands.
• Torque the oil pan bolt: Refer to your Subaru's specifications and torque the oil pan bolt accordingly. Note that some engines require torquing the rear oil pan bolt differently from the front bolt.
• Reinstall the oil filter and refill the crankcase with new motor oil: Lower your Subaru, start the engine, and let it run for a few minutes, ensuring no signs of an oil leak.

If you are unsure about any part of the process, it is best to consult a professional mechanic. They will have the necessary tools and expertise to replace your oil pan correctly and safely.

The estimated cost for an oil pan replacement ranges from $450 to $1092, depending on your Subaru model and location. This includes parts, which range from $175 to $400, and labor charges, which range from $120 to $424.

In addition to the oil pan replacement, you may also need related repairs, such as changing the drain plug or oil, which could increase the total cost.

Signs you need a replacement

The oil pan is a vital component of your car's engine. It acts as a reservoir for the engine oil, ensuring that it is readily available for circulation and lubrication of various components. While the oil pan is designed to last the lifetime of your car, certain signs may indicate that it needs to be replaced. Here are some common warning signs that your oil pan may be failing:

• Oil leaks: One of the most noticeable signs is the presence of oil spots or puddles under your vehicle. This could indicate a crack or hole in the oil pan due to corrosion or impact damage.
• Dents and damage: Physical damage to the oil pan, such as dents or cracks, can occur from running over debris or having low ground clearance. Even minor dents can disrupt oil flow and lead to potential engine issues.
• Unusual noises: A damaged oil pan can cause low oil levels, resulting in knocking or ticking noises from the engine due to inadequate lubrication.
• Overheating engine: The oil pan plays a crucial role in engine cooling. If the oil pan is compromised, it can lead to overheating as the oil is not able to effectively lubricate and cool the engine components.
• Corrosion and rust: Exposure to the elements can cause corrosion and rust on the oil pan over time. Severe corrosion or rust can lead to leaks and affect the pan's ability to hold oil securely.

It is important to address these warning signs promptly to prevent reduced engine performance and potential engine failure. Replacing the oil pan may be necessary if it is severely damaged, persistently leaking, or heavily corroded. When replacing the oil pan, it is essential to choose a high-quality aftermarket or OEM pan to ensure your engine's protection and optimal performance.

Steps to replace an oil pan

The cost of replacing an oil pan for a Subaru can vary depending on the model of the car, the labor rate at the repair shop, and the availability of the oil pan. The dealership quoted a Subaru owner $420 to replace the oil pan. However, another Subaru owner stated that a new oil pan is likely to cost under $100.

Step 1: Identify the Problem

You will likely notice one of the following issues:

• A puddle of oil under your car
• Smoke coming from your engine
• Lower than normal oil levels

Step 2: Confirm the Source

Make sure that the engine oil leak is, in fact, coming from the oil pan gasket. Clean all the oil from the engine using a degreaser or engine cleaner, then go for a quick drive and recheck for leaks. If you don't discover leaking oil from anywhere above the oil pan, the leak is likely coming from the oil pan gasket.

Step 3: Purchase Replacement Parts (If Fixing at Home)

Research the specific parts that your car needs and order them.

Step 4: Remove and Replace the Oil Pan

Oil pans are often attached via a significant number of small bolts and can sometimes be obstructed by the frame of the vehicle or steering components. On some vehicles, you have to remove the front sub-frame or even the motor to access the oil pan.

• Remove all the oil pan mounting bolts
• Gently pry the oil pan from the engine block
• Clean the mounting surface on the engine
• Install the new oil pan with a new gasket or gasket-making material
• Torque the mounting bolts to specification in the correct order

To ensure a good seal on the new oil pan, clean the mounting surface after removing the old oil pan and gasket. Use a gasket scraper or similar tool to remove any old gasket material without damaging the engine block or other mounting surfaces.

You can use a new gasket or a liquid gasket maker to seal the new oil pan. However, add a liquid sealant anywhere the new oil pan will cross a seam or gap, like where the engine block meets a timing cover.

Frequently asked questions