Thinking about buying a used Subaru Exiga (2008–2018) in New Zealand? We've documented 6 known faults for this model spanning engine, transmission, and fluid leaks. Each researched and verified before it's published. The most serious issues here are rated critical. Two are set out in full below — the rest, with the symptoms, repair costs and checks for each, are free with an account.
6
Documented faults
Critical
Most serious
$2,000–$4,500
Typical repair
3
Systems covered
Known Subaru Exiga faults
Every fault below is documented specifically for this model — researched and verified before it’s published.
01EJ20 head gasket failure
CriticalVery commonEngine $2,500–$4,500 to fix
Early Exiga YA models use the EJ20 flat-four, which carries the same well-documented head gasket failure as Legacy, Forester and Impreza of the same generation. External oil and coolant seepage at the head-to-block mating surface is the most common presentation, with internal mixing in severe cases. JDM-import Exigas entering NZ from 2010 onward are predominantly in the at-risk mileage range of 100,000 to 200,000 km. The Exiga's MPV use often means more urban idling and short trips that can worsen overheating risk if coolant is low.
Symptoms to notice
External oil seepage along the cylinder head mating line
Coolant consumption without a visible external leak
White exhaust smoke with a sweet smell
Overheating or temperature gauge climbing in traffic
Milky residue on the oil filler cap
What to check
Inspect both sides of the engine block at head gasket level for oil or coolant seepage. Perform a combustion leak (block) test on the coolant reservoir. Check the oil cap and dipstick for emulsion. Review coolant condition and colour. Check for any history of overheating events or coolant top-ups between services.
Where to look: Cylinder head gaskets on both sides of the EJ20 flat-four engine
Ask the seller
“Has the head gasket been replaced on this vehicle?”
“Has the car ever overheated or been topped up with coolant between services?”
“What is the current coolant condition and when was it last changed?”
02Oil weeping from cam carrier / valve covers onto exhaust
MinorCommonFluid Leaks $400–$1,200 to fix
Separately from the head gaskets, the SOHC boxer engines commonly weep oil from the cam-carrier and valve-cover seals, and because the exhaust runs directly below, the oil drips onto hot pipes and produces a burning smell and smoke. It is not usually dangerous but can be mistaken for a bigger leak and should be watched. Gaskets are cheap; boxer-engine labour is the cost.
Symptoms to notice
Burning-oil smell after driving
Smoke from the engine bay when hot
Oily residue on the lower engine
What to check
With the engine cold, check the outer edges of the valve covers and the lower engine for oily film, and sniff for burning oil after the drive. Confirm the oil level is correct.
Where to look: Valve-cover / cam-carrier seals on the boxer engine, above the exhaust
Ask the seller
“Are there any oil leaks onto the exhaust?”
“Does it smell of burning oil when hot?”
TransmissionMajor
EngineMajor
TransmissionMajor
EngineMajor
4 more documented faults on the Subaru Exiga
Symptoms, what to check, where to look and what to ask the seller — for every fault above. Free with an account, no card needed. One account covers one vehicle, so make it the car you’re actually looking at.
This page covers the model. Enter the plate of the actual car you’re looking at and see its year, engine, safety rating and register flags — free, no account needed.
Like any used car, it depends on the specific example and its service history. Across the 6 documented faults for the Subaru Exiga, the recurring problem areas are engine, transmission, and fluid leaks. A Subaru Exiga with a full service history and no signs of the issues listed on this page can be a sound buy but each one needs to be checked individually before you commit.
What are the most common problems with a used Subaru Exiga?
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We've catalogued 6 known faults for the Subaru Exiga, covering engine, transmission, and fluid leaks. Two are written out in full on this page. The rest — with the symptoms to notice, what to inspect, and typical repair costs for each — are free once you create an account.
How much do repairs cost on a Subaru Exiga?
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Most single repairs on the Subaru Exiga fall between $2,000–$4,500 at NZ independent-workshop rates. Some of the 6 documented faults cost less and a few cost considerably more, and no one car needs them all. Knowing which ones to look for before you view is what lets you negotiate the price down or walk away.
Should I get a pre-purchase inspection on a Subaru Exiga?
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Yes. A Subaru Exiga inspection focused on its known weak points is the single best way to avoid an expensive mistake. KickTyres gives you a guided, model-specific inspection plus a market valuation and negotiation figure for $17.90 far less than the cost of missing one of the faults on this page.