l am looking for an engine for my 1997 Subaru Outback (2.5L EJ25) because the head gasket is blown and l figure the cost of replacing the gasket in a boxer engine will be around to same for a new engine to be fitted (taking into account the age of the original motor as well).
Does anyone know how much an engine like that will cost, where a good wreckers are located in NSW to could find one, and if any 2.5L EJ25 engine will fit in my Outback?

Thanks in advance

Hi, having just completed the same exercise with my Outback because the timing belt seized, l am happy to let you know that engines (second-hand) range from about $1800 to $2000. It would have cost me over $5000 to get mine rebuilt (it bent a few valves). If you would like to call me on (02) 62315913 and l will give you a number of a few wreckers l found that had, or could get, engines. It still will cost around $1000 to get someone to put it in, but it is better than $5000.

My sister is 1999 Legacy Outback had the same problem. My mechanic, Bill, stated that the 2.5 motor is prone to have head gaskets blown. Her Legacy has around 150,000 miles on it. Bill replaced both head gaskets, rebuilt the heads & stated that as long as the block is not cracked, (oil in the water or water in the oil), & the compression is good, no need to replace the motor. He did the job for around $2,400.00. He said if he had to get a new short block, he still would have to re do the heads & the whole job would run around $3,500.00 including labor.

A newER engine goes anywhere from $850 to $1300 depending on whether or not u want a transmission with it. a warranty too, short though. Then labor is just under a grand. re-furbished tuned & cleaned/re-bored engines go for a lot more. l did this on my legacy 96, younger engine more life & power, but Subaru is VIN# Sensitive so GET THE CORRECT TYPE. Now my engine light is on because l cant fit my EVAP Canister into the dam motor. Engine light = No State Inspection Pass. Keep in mind although the Ej25 is a good engine, they r mainly prone to gasket leaks, oil. 1990s era mainly. Keep Hope Tough! If u love ur Subie its worth the effort. the only thing that stopped me from getting a new legacy was monthly payments. Good Luck.

In the US, changing the head gasket is on ur engine is a $500 to $800 job by a pro or maybe $150 to do it ur self over a weekend. l would not go for the whole engine swap unless the old one is showing it is age. it will cost a whole lot more for R&R of a whole engine. If the car has been properly maintained it should be good for 200,000 miles at least. If it is showing signs of age & u think it would be better to change the motor, make sure u have things like the water pump, timing belt, & maybe even the clutch done at the same time. You will save a good amount on labor by havung things done at once rater than havung it done again a short time down the road.