Subaru Repair: Head Gasket?, cylinder head gaskets, car head gaskets

Question
1998 Outback 2.5l - Standard 117,000

Recently heat began to fluctuate.  Then I notice coolent is disappearing - no leakage.  now the car is overheating.  No water in oil.  Head gasket? How can I be sure?

Is it worth it to get replaced? Would it be better just to get a new engine? How much would that run me? or just a new car...

Answer
Head gaskets are the most likely cause, sorry. But, pressure testing the cooling system may help find a leaky water pump, or hose - so try to have that done first. How to be sure about head gaskets? Have someone, or yourself use a "block check" product - it tests the gases coming from the cooling system with the radiator cap off and will turn colors if there are combustion gasses present indicating internal engine problems. If you have internal problems, it is probably the cylinder head, heads, or gaskets. With the heads off a machine shop can check for cracks and resurface as needed. You want an experienced tech to check the block closely for cracks - not common, but fatal to the motor if there are cracks in the cylinder walls. Cost? About 1200.00 here - parts and labor - to do both cylinder head gaskets - that includes the $125.00 to have both heads checked. We can sell a short block and gasket set for about $1950.00 then you will need to have it installed. If you are going for the quick, cheap fix, try head gaskets. If you really dont want to mess around, and you are sure you are going to keep the car replacing the engine isnt a bad idea, but it probably is a little overly cautious. As for the new one, you now have a good excuse, but you dont need too. But remember, the tires, brakes, alternator, starter, tranmission, clutch, rear differential all have alot of miles on them. So dont think if you spend 2500.00 putting a new short block in this thing that you have a new car- because you dont. You will have a really good car, but a really good car with miles. If you dont mind visiting guys like me for some expensive service sometimes, you will save money by keeping this one going I think. But, you will have to visit guys like me. Some people would trade the reliability of a new car for the savings of an old car. Your choice.  Good luck. If you would some more exact prices on the short block, gasket set, or even a new Subaru you can try me back here.