Worth Fixing a Head Gasket+Other Things on a 2009?

[PlayfulSpirit]

Hello. I have a 2009 Subaru Forester X Premium, 2.5L. I bought it new and it's been an amazing car over the last 15 years. That said, it currently has 137k miles on it and we seem to have reached the "regular repairs" stage of the game. We've recently discovered the oil was leaking (never got a low oil warning and it was out by the time I saw the oil on the ground and checked it), so we took it in to get it looked at. The repair shop has advised us it needs $4,921 worth of repairs ($1400 worth of parts, the rest is labor - head gasket, belts, water pump, air conditioning service, etc.). Every time a repair has come up over the last 2 years, I've told myself it was the "last one for a while" and now this.

So, it was recommended to me that I post on this forum to get some opinions on whether it makes sense to repair or if we should just cut our losses and trade it in and get a new vehicle. Anyone have any good recommendations and thoughts on which direction I should go?

Thank you in advance! I don't want to continue to throw money at my car, but I also don't really want a new car payment either...

 

[SimpleMan42793]

I have an 08 Forester i bought used. Had 178000 when i got it and it was leaking oil. Found out it was a head gasket issue (typical Subaru). I replaced head gaskets, timing set, water pump and a few other items. Cost me about $400 in parts and two days. Car now has 252000 miles on it and going strong. If you have any mechanical knowledge and a clean place to do the work, I'd go for it! Even if you don't and the car is in good condition; it would be cheaper than a new car. These Subarus are great, inexpensive when maintained, and last a very long time. Hold on to it if you can.