Repair or replace engine

a short block is a rebuilt engine less the heads and intake. As long as the heads are reconditioned I don't see a problem even though a Long block would be better meaning the heads come reconditioned and installed with it.

Agree. The heads need a valve job and new valve seals.

How many miles are on the vehicle? Jim

@86,000

With only 86,000 miles on it yes, an engine repair should be ok. You still have lots of life left in the vehicle. As already mentioned, have the heads gone over too. Even if you have to pay for just that, in my opinion it's worth it. I'd feel comfortable with the dealer's recommendations. Hope that helps! Jim

The extended warranty only covers the short block, but I too agree that the heads should be ok if the failure involved only a blown rod. But for security I'd spend the $150 to have a machine shop pressure test and measure the heads. Good luck. Ern TSG/B

I too have a 2009 Subaru impreza and I want to replace the motor as well. I heard instead of using the original 2.5i, which is $1799, you can use the EJ20 2.0L, which is only 750$ out the door with 45k miles and a 3 month warranty. I was wondering if it is a direct fit and what I would need to change to do this swap. I heard only the intake and exhaust manifolds. I just dont know how true this is. And one last thing, since I'll have the motor out I'm guessing itll be easier to replace the clutch kit this way instead of pulling the tranny? Or do I still have to drop the tranny??? I need help asap because I am doing all this, this weekend. HELP

I wouldn't replace an old 2.5i with the completely torque-less 2.0 unless you're willing to live with the anemic response. OTOH it's not SO bad with the stick. But you'll be replacing the ECM, maybe harnesses, exhaust parts, et al. The only real benefit with keeping a 2008-2011 Imp is the comfy suspension over potholes. Yet the 2012+ have myriad problems. A rare stick 2013+ 2.0 is kind of a fun little goat...but not with CVT. You should be able to find a 2.5i for your old Imp for far less than $1800. Nonetheless unless it's PERFECTLY dry I'd remove the heads and send them out for testing and assured flatness and replace the HGs, t-belt and pulleys at the same time. It's hard to recommend dumping much money into 2008-2011 Imps as they're pretty thirsty, which may be annoying when fuel doubles in price in a couple of years. Good luck. (Disclaimer: I service and sell 2016+ OBs/Legs in Boston)