Subaru EJ Series Vs. FA/FB Series Engines. 5 Reasons Why The EJ Is Still The King!

[@martinfinbarscully4924]

My dog knows the WRX is on the way home from miles away as he knows an EJ engine when he hears one

[@sirtnfol8476]

your dog is gay too.

[@nakoma5]

That is adorable.

[@matd8958]

Your right my wife says my dog gets all excited when he hears me down the road

[@mgintrouble1499]

I’ve had both. The MotoIQ channel does a nice deep dive in the differences of the EJ vs the FA. It’s done from an engineering perspective.

[@richieduck67]

My EJ at 155000 miles still going strong and on original head gaskets

[@gregdolecki8530]

EJ253 with 248,000 miles, original head gaskets.

[@Cozmo85]

@@gregdolecki8530had to do mine at 220 but still going strong now at 275k

[@Yourmission9]

2006 EJ with 277k miles with original head gaskets. I win! Kidding, head gasket replaced with multi layer around 150k

[@paultice610]

My ej 253 180,000 miles and all gaskets

[@MicMc539]

08 EJ253 225,000K's original Head Gaskets, and worrying!

[@TheSharkGirls]

Hard to argue against the 2005 EJ20x GT Wagon I have. 500,000km. Type C big turbo & tune from Japan new. Only time I had to add oil between changes was when the turbo oil line came a little loose. Rarely add any coolant. Change good oil every 5000km. Timing bits every 60,000km Still pulls without lag to the limiter. Doesn't like being parked pointed uphill, because of the oil pickup, so I don't. I warm it up to temp before driving, as you say, it keeps those forged pistons happy. Just replaced the rear passenger wheel bearing for the first time ever. Replaced usual suspension bits due to wild country driving but that engine just purrs along. I regularly tow a small boat a thousand km (600 miles) and it only goes above 2500rpm on 2 mountains. My buddy upgraded to an FA Gt type and had to change wheels and suspension just to make it drive-able, but it just doesn't do it. More fuel, less performance. I'm thinking of getting a replacement gold anodised billet EJ and then when the day comes, have it made into my tombstone when I die. Fastest most reliable car a plus six foot guy can comfortably sleep in. It all comes down to the engine.

[@johnmastr7901]

I'm making 330 horsepower 375 ft lb of torque on E85 on my 06 Outback XT with just bolt ons and a VF 52 Turbo. With a built automatic transmission from ipt Transmissions. Has been tuned by TaylorD. Car runs and drives great. Of course I'm older and I don't beat on it. I now have a 19 Outback touring and I got to say I really like the new Outback

[@tkf28]

The EJ rumble is iconic

[@CourtesyToot]

The Fa engine has an upper oil pan with integrated baffle so it doesn’t have so much sloppy oil windage. It also serves as structural reinforcement. The iconic ej sound comes from exhaust pulses striking the sharp bends in the manifold instead of directly feeding the turbocharger. Ive never heard someone argue better mpgs on an EJ…thats like one of the major benefits of going with newer DI. At least you EJ people don’t have to clean your valves every other year.

[@Wrang15]

Well my FA is in the shop.... dreaded oil pan sealant failure. At least it's under warenty still. 4 weeks to do the job SOA told me. Hoping they extend the warenty on all the sealant.

[@JacobRJZ]

I also used to be a Subaru tech. And still currently own a WRX (now with a EJ25) and I can tell ya. You’re right. The EJ motors are just (in my opinion) tougher and like you said Easier to work with. There’s more support and they’re relatively reliable for the most part. F series isn’t bad….BUT the timing chain setup is not for me lol. And also like you said NOT DIY friendly…

[@fredastaire6156]

As an EJ owner, I'm honestly looking forward to the FB series engies can do. Even now I hear that there is less modifications needed to achieve greater horsepower and more efficiently. The engine does run cooler with thicker cylinder walls. All and all, I love the engineering put in to these engines and am excited at what the next decade will bring as we learn more and more about these "newer" engines. Great video Rob,thank you!

[@vegasstang1]

EJ is also a favorite for VW Bus and camper van swaps.

[@GlycerinZ]

hell yeah!

[@miken8150]

Fuel economy: my 2007 Outback (with EJ253 and 4EAT) averages 27 mpg. My 2023 Outback with CVT averages 37. Similar roads and driving habits. Maybe the CVT is responsible but the difference is staggering. However I do agree the EJ is simpler and easy to work on.

[@ddphotoadventure2657]

My 23 outback only gets around 31mpg not even close to 37

[@santouchesantouche2873]

CVT is far more efficient

[@manuelbejarano6121]

I have a 2009 EJ Outback...230K miles and a 2015 FB Outback 233K miles ............ I LOVE my EJ engien, way easier to fix (I am a DIY'r) !! Right on, Mr S !!!

[@StuG-pr9tf]

NEW Subscriber - Sir, I must say you are so thorough on your breakdown of the different aspects of these Subaru vehicles is quite impressive. I am a 61 year old guy ( No Mechanical aptitude to speak of ) I have not owned a vehicle since May 2023. I am looking at a 2005 Outback that a repair shop has for sale. 251,000 miles ( 3 owners) I test drove it yesterday and it really performed well. The Carfax report say's that the Head Gasket was replaced at 97,000. The A/C does not work right now ( Belt not attached ) I worry that the Head Gasket is blown or even slightly leaking again, it's been nearly 160,000 miles?? They are asking $2,500. It needs new tires + brakes ( front / rear ). I cannot afford to have someone tear down the engine to replace another head gasket...putting $3,000 in for brakes + tires + and some minor things is doable? and I forgot tomention the steering wheel is slightly off center? ( front end alignment maybe? )

[@NolanGunn]

I can’t agree more. After tearing apart an FB series, the EJ feels like a walk in the park. I went from an FB back to an EJ253 (2012 Outback w/ CVT) and even at 248,000 miles, I’m averaging 28 mpg. It’s a phenomenal vehicle and doesn’t drink a drop of oil. EJ forever 👌🏼

[@jam00723]

The EJ207 is king. Big port heads, twin scroll turbo, ELH, and it screamed all the way to 8,250 rpm’s. Such a fun and easy motor to work on. Subaru should’ve just brought the EJ207 dual AVCS V10 STI motor to the American market, but they hate us.

[@brendancrosby2965]

I think subaru would have just used the EJ207 if they could, instead of designing and building the EJ257.

[@jam00723]

@@brendancrosby2965 it’s kinda weird because the 257 were in the JDM STI Foresters. It’s almost like what Nissan did with the 240’s by sticking a truck motor in it (KA24DE) and saved the coveted SR20 for their market.

[@chandlerbraaten847]

​@@jam00723thats exactly what they did.

[@kaiwilliams12]

​@@jam00723That's because America like trucks, and they're ain't no replacement for displacement 😤. No wonder Japan thought their little 2L motors wouldn't sell in the U.S. They were probably worried enough that their 2.4L and 2.5L were too small for you guys 🤣

[@nzmarco]

Twin scroll turbo came out well after the EJ207 first came on the scene. In fact, it came in after the JDM Bugeye model.

[@jeffdean277]

I have a 23 wrx and my girlfriend has a 23 Ascent. I'm averaging 27-28mpg and she she is hovering around 24. I LOVE the ejs, but I'm beyond happy with both of our FA24 powered cars. I can't wait to see how things progress.

[@theodorgiosan2570]

I think there is an even better series than the EJ and that is the EA series (OHV, not the EA82 and ER27) I daily drive a 79 Subaru DL Wagon that has a 1989 EA71S engine that I rebuilt and modified myself. It makes around 120hp naturally aspirated with 12:1 compression and a 310/310 duration camshaft. The powerband starts just above 3500 RPM and peaks at 6500. Since the rebuild, I have put around 200,000 miles on the engine at a rate of about 50,000 miles per year. It does nearly 100 percent highway miles at between 3500 and 5000 rpm cruising. Since a valve adjustment is required around once every 10,000 miles, I have seen under the valve covers around 20 times since the rebuild. It is absolutely spotless under there, and the inside of the cylinders have no scoring or bore polishing whatsoever. There is no timing chain or belt to worry about, only two solid metal gears. The oil pump is right on the front of the engine and easily accessible. There are no oil starvation issues going around tight turns. I think the EJ is better than the FA/FB but it will never dethrone the king, the EA series, at least in the longevity department.

[@samuelwilson4070]

Just because of the sound the EJ makes, it will always be king in my book :)

[@Carlos.Rivera]

Un-enqual length header

[@boostedrex9460]

Doesnt matter i dont want to modify and void warranty if i dont have to just to get that sound i like.​@@Carlos.Rivera

[@Carlos.Rivera]

@boostedrex9460 don't worry, factory EJ has it. All good

[@michaelweatherhead9470]

Thanks for the video Robert ❤❤304k on my 2011 outback.

[@jameshyde1501]

I have the 2011 Outback, and I do all my own service work. I LOVE! how easy this car is to work on.

[@andrewward3286]

I've had cars with ej22, ej22 and now an fa20. I think they are all pretty good honestly

[@CaptainAlex69]

Me watching with my blown stock and maintained 2nd owner 63,000 mile 2013 wrx (warranty so I’m so happy I kept it stock)

[@eknapp70]

i own a fa24 brz and ej25 sti and i've seen modified fa24 wrx's. it seems to me like the biggest plus for the fa24 wrx is that you can make reasonable and reliable power for cheaper than a used ej25. but perhaps if you're buying a good used wrx for 10k you can afford to put a little more into it to make it reliable than if you get a 35k new wrx

[@TaffPlays]

I am so proud of my EJ253 thats in my SG Forester. Nearly 200,000 kms on the original head gasket and hasn't had a real serious issue within the 8.5 nearly 9 years that its been in my family thats not uncommon to any other car, the only thing was a nasty misfire in cylinder 4. Another point I'd like to make is I feel EJ powered Subarus aesthetically look better and arguably more iconic than F series Subarus, since majority of them had the frameless window design, and look smaller than the current lineup.

[@silentk59]

I own an EJ(03) and a FB(22) and I prefer the EJ for sure. Feels more visceral and raw. Its also slightly faster(both are base).

[@JdmZack]

Got an FB20 in my 2015 Impreza 5 speed. Love the reliability of it but that’s really all you get out of it. If it ever goes, I’m going the EJ route for sure.

[@cigarsgunsanddiesel8032]

I have the FB25 in my Legacy... for what it is it's decent... all 174 screaming HP! 😂😂

[@emv143]

'07 NA-matic Forester at 320,000+ km, still going strong. Only 3 problems: 1) both rear wheel-wells starting to rust 2) P0420 3) A-pillar starting to rust Maybe time for another used Subie episode? Keep up the good work boss and keep them EJs alive.

[@charlesperry1051]

I have a 2016 Legacy with the 2.5L, so an F. I call it my boring car. I bought it to have a reliable car that always started, dealt with bad weather, and got decent fuel economy. Over the past 4 years ( I bought it in 2020) it has averaged 31 mpg. If I were into modifying a car, I would probably prefer the EJ. But for just driving, the F is fine. I bought the car with 60k miles and have put 60k on it. My goal is 300k. So far just normal items like brakes, tires, oil, filters, and a PCV valve.

[@ghosty1233]

I unfortunately lost my 08 outback 2.5L with the EJ engine in a wreck earlier this year. It had the multi-layered head gasket and the thing ran like a champ at almost 300k miles and everything worked. My newest Subaru is a 22 outback with the F series engine and I must say the fuel economy is MUCH better than my old outback. I imagine it has more to do with the CVT transmission than the engine. I could probably go without filling its also larger fuel tank for a month. I drive about 450-500 miles a month on average on mostly country back roads which aren't great on fuel economy to begin with. That being said I still have a 99 forester in the fleet that is going strong with little rust and the EJ251 still going strong. The thing will just not die. And everything still works! Well other than the radio but oh well can always swap it. Great video.

[@Metman2J]

Have had an EJ blow up on me not long after I bought it from a mechanic, but did head gaskets on another one that still runs (but stalls when I put it into gear) with about 230k on it. My FB25 Forester has 202k on it and I have not had any issues with the engine, just the transmission and suspension.

[@annoyedlife]

after watching you channel MY 2013 subaru 2.0 no turbo I like it the way it is. I keep it clean, I had many subaru owners offer me cash.

[@dennisglodoski6365]

Yes! Thanks for the upload Mr Subaru

[@Rephyc]

Nobody in my life can mistake my 04 STi from miles away, they all love the sound and have gotten a handful of them to get Subarus after they’ve seen my 16 3.6R OB, 06 LGT, & 04 STi all last so long

[@christophercraig9611]

The boxer rumble ... The sound of inefficiency

[@phe8525]

I'm new to the Subaru community. I personally like the EJ more for that sound and I guess it's kind of a nostalgic sound to me aswell. Got me a really nice red 2003 Forester Cross Sports (JDM car) Previous owner really loved and took care of the car. Has some sort of exhaust but it's not too loud and it's just the way I like it. Absolutely in love with the car and I hope to keep it for many years to come.

[@chrisschultz6129]

F-series has the oil filter very handy on the top, just like a Ferrari. Other than that I'll take my EJ every day of the week.

[@mattcrozier8308]

I dunno my Forester STI is lowered and I can still reach under and grab the oil filter pretty easy ...

[@michaelmartin2276]

I love my 2012 Impreza. Its been reliable and is more than fast enough for me and my sporty driving through the rolling hills and winding roads of Western Pennsylvania !

[@scottsmith2366]

EJ is just iconic, my family can tell when I'm on my way home from the rumble

[@phillipjohnson5868]

My 2012 EJ253 has 194k on it and never had any issues! Doesn’t even burn oil! Most reliable engine I’ve had!

[@joeorourke3388]

I have FB 2.5 in a 2016 Outback Petrol. I get low thirties(33,34) consistently in mpg. Highest was 37, This is over a five year period. I explain this by the help and guidance you have given me in maintenance tasks.

[@Kwijibob]

The F-series would be a lot better if they added dual injection like the BRZ

[@steve8803]

@Kwijibob doesn't the brz have a f series engine?

[@fendermon]

@@steve8803 Yes

[@yuglesstube]

I have both. The F series and CVT is teriffic. I drove for several hours yesterday in my new forester. 7.2 litres per 100km. Quiet, smooth. I'll keep the old one because it has the manual gearbox and low range. My old subaru is far less fuel efficient. More like 11 litres. And my old forester is suitable for dogs. They've made a mess of the back. So I'll keep boh

[@RMartin631]

In-so-far as fuel mileage goes, the driver has a huge impact on that. We have a bone stock 2018 Impreza 5 door base model. There is easily a 5 mpg difference between when my wife drives the car and when I drive the car. I get mileage approaching 40 mpg on the highway and 30+ in the city. I am a much more conservative driver. I'm easier on the throttle when taking off from a stop, I maintain a more consistent speed when driving, and I let off of the gas much sooner when coming to a stop. I believe that my driving style is also much easier on the brakes and the CVT. As much as my wife likes to zoom-zoom around town, she wouldn't drive my built NA '92 Mustang 5.0 hatchback.

[@Thebearwand]

It honestly depends your goals, if you’re building for under 400whp the FA is actually better as it requires less supporting mods as responds to bolt ons better, but once you get to anything over that, the EJ makes more sense

[@NocturnalRageGaming]

Less than a month ago picked up a 12 Outback with an EJ. So happy I got one of the last ones made.

[@subfloor2022]

I've heard from some experienced engine builders about the added complexity of the F series. Much more labor time is needed than an EJ.

[@brianneu6489]

I’ve had both engines and I prefer the EJ due to having timing belts. I like timing belts. They have a regular maintenance schedule unlike “lifetime timing chains”. I’ve already had to replace timing chain tensioners and reseal the upper oil pan and cam carriers in the FB. The FB is kind of a joke in my very humble opinion. I want my EJ back.😂

[@steve8803]

The FA24 is superior in every way, except for sound(which is obviously attributed to the uel headers, rather than the engine itself). Sure, you can say the EJ has more aftermarket support, due to it being around since the dinosaur age, but that doesn't make it a better engine.

[@lucian7182]

It still sounds better even with elh.

[@aldomassa7473]

EJ because of everything you said. 👍🏼 But the rumble is iconic and a neat sound.

[@FlyinGato]

King of the rod knock! lol, I kid I kid, there’s nothing better than listening to the Subie Rumble

[@nube7018]

my EJ25 has 245k miles and still going strong

[@courtneyblackwell9211]

agree, EJ is better--time tested and easy of repair due to simplicity without the massive front timing chain cover or cam carrier plates and its associated problems.........

[@technicallyme]

I have an 2020 ascent and that engine bay is hot! I changed the exhaust too and it's aggressive but nothing like my 2012 sti was

[@mitchkelleher7972]

I never for a moment doubted my EJ22 SOHC for reliability, durability, or repairability for a few bucks and a few hours' work. The FA24D? Not so much, though at least there's no t-belt to change. IME, mileage definitely goes to FA, though. My 5MT FWD '90 Legacy averaged around 27 mpg. The RWD 6MT GR86 with the same wheelbase, approximately same weight, and better aero (not sure with frontal area as it's lower, but wider, though it definitely has a lower cd), but about 100 more hp, .2 liters more displacement, (relatively) wider tires, and shorter gearing (5th in the Legacy was 27mph/1k rpm and 6th in the '86 is 23) gets in the low 30s on the highway at about the same extra legal highway speeds on summer blend fuel. Of course, the EJ22 ran on beer piss and the FA needs premium, so cost is probably higher for the FA.

[@SchoorbinMeHam]

This is why I chose to wait on performance upgrades. Everyone asked me if I'm going to make more power but the market just isn't there yet for my WRX. Cosmetic parts are already pretty limited so patience will be the key.

[@SW0831]

Subaru EJ engine with the SOHC is the best and easiest to maintain for every one even I'm a Honda guy hahahhaha.

[@peterborbilas4711]

Just rebuilt my sohc ej25, enjoyed it because of the logical, robust parts and the great results after all the effort.I have a 2020 outback too but it looks way too tricky..

[@wtaylorg]

I like the non CVT Subarus. The 4 speed automatic transmission in my 2009 Impreza is bulletproof. I wish they offered something like a 10 -12 speed automatic like Honda today.

[@Fearlessphil100]

I had a 2009 Impreza WRX Sti, if it's the A-Line don't you mean 5 speed Auto with the tiptronic mode and paddles? Not heard of a 4 speed, or was your car just a base model Impreza? But for me it was the only reason I was happy to get the auto otherwise I would default to manual, and I grew to really like it. Wouldn't ever get a CVT, I am about to buy a 2011 WRX Sti A-line with only 46,000km on in mint condition (3rd Sti and 4th Subaru I have owned all extremely reliable)❤‍🔥👌😊

[@wtaylorg]

It’s just the base model. I bought it from my Mom in 2011. I live in NE Ohio and it has saved me several times in the winter with AWD.

[@Fearlessphil100]

@@wtaylorg Cool! Yeah Subaru converted me to AWD. Even though I usually buy Subaru I recently had an Audi, and the only reason I was happy to buy that was because it was also AWD.

[@wtaylorg]

I had a 4wd Nissan truck and when I switched to this car I got twice the gas mileage and the same awd. My Mom had to move to a higher up vehicle due to my step-dad being diagnosed with Parkinson’s. She bought a Forester. I told her I’ll offer you what the dealer is on trade.

[@JensScearcy]

My 05 STI is still going 156k miles has had new head gaskets but runs good for all the abuse and neglect from previous owners

[@denshidirect3182]

A lot of the reasons mentioned could be applied to other old-vs-new engine families. Once more people get their hands on the F series engines there will be increased support in the aftermarket, and it should be encouraged to keep the tuning scene alive. Also I like the sound of the FA20DIT except when an unresonated exhaust is fitted.

[@EverydayDIY2023]

Right on! Love my '07 (212k) and '10 (109k) Foresters and couldn't agree more on the serviceability and DIY compared to the F series!

[@gohan2355]

The FA/FB are just way more reliable now then the EJs. If I was going to make more power I put a ej in the 24 impreza rs all the way but if I am looking for pure subjective reliability the FA motor is flat out a superior motor then the ej. I ain't the engineers of that motor but they both have there own reliability

[@robertjones1855]

You had mentioned in a previous post about cleaning the throttle body and removing carbon from the valves. How often does this have to be done?

[@santouchesantouche2873]

F series is a better engine. I would suggest the use of sealant instead of gaskets and some valve issues being weak points.

[@fendermon]

What valve issues? - Thanks

[@santouchesantouche2873]

@fendermon A light little load on the valve spring and they just simply just drop out and fall inside the head.

[@fendermon]

@@santouchesantouche2873 Yowza, in what scenario could that happen?

[@santouchesantouche2873]

@fendermon Basically with hard driving or open throttle. There was a recall in the states but it didnt address the issue

[@fendermon]

@@santouchesantouche2873 Okay, thanks for the heads up. appreciate it 👍

[@blueridge8992]

Hey Mr. Subaru, quick question about my FA24 if you have a minute: I have a ‘22 WRX 6-speed, Process West intake/top mount intercooler/charge pipe, and dual Radium catch cans. It’s tuned on e50 and makes 385hp/400ft-lbs on the dyno. Redline is set to 6600rpm. I get about an ounce of brown goo in the PCV catch can every 2k miles, but I’m getting absolutely nothing in the CCV catch can on the front of the engine. It still looks new inside. I even checked the stock hose that was coming out of the CCV and it doesn’t have an oily film on the inside. Car has 8500 miles, and has been tuned and wearing catch cans for 6500 miles. I take it to Autocross and a road course track so the car has been driven HARD since 1k miles. Is the dry CCV can something I should worry about, or did I just get lucky with a very tight engine built on a Wednesday? I use Pennzoil Ultra Platinum 5w30 and the black OEM oil filters, and change the oil every 2000 miles since it’s a track car.

[@DDB168]

Of course I agree !! I still have my 2010 Subaru Impreza (EJ204) and maintain it myself. Do I have a fool for a mechanic? Probably, but I like doing my own repairs (I'm not a mechanic btw, I just watch channels like yours and figure it out).

[@rippermagoos8124]

I run 90 non ethanol in my 2020 legacy and I’m currently getting 35mpg it’s amazing

[@JenniLudes]

EJ wins all day. But I will say one thing they did right on the F series is moving the oil filter up top. Easier to change. I understand that even with the check valve in the filter, most of the oil runs out of the filter so it adds a second or 2 to get oil pressure up on first start but I suppose you could always go with a "flood start" then start, ha. (I've burnt my hand a time or 2 getting at that oil filter tucked away in the hot exhaust manifold...guess I should stick to removing it with a cap wrench heh)

[@aspenGF8]

oil filter is in a better place but drain plug is worse, at least without a hoist.

[@JenniLudes]

@@aspenGF8 Yup!

[@Align700nitro]

F series takes 34 sec of flood mode to turn off low pressure light while EJ takes only 5 sec. There is a price to pay for top mount filter.

[@J27M]

It makes minimal difference. You’re under the car anyway undoing the sump plug and it’s not hidden in some obscure location on the block and behind crossmembers or under exhaust manifolds like some Toyotas or Hondas.

[@JenniLudes]

@@Align700nitro Which is why I don't really bother. When I change the filter, sure, but not on normal startup.

[@OilyWRX]

@MrSubaru1387 the only things I’d like to point out are: changing oil on a FA24 motor is pretty easy since the filter won’t spill oil, you only have to worry about getting under the car u less you drain from the top then the FA24 is way easier for maintenance. The other point is you can make more power for less in an FA24 with just and intake, TMIC/FMIC, blended fuel tube or E85 than an EJ25.

[@Nutzi133]

Video idea/request: The differences in Subaru AWD systems over the years. Is there any?

[@tyree9055]

Fuel Economy: 32 mpg avg. My 2002 EJ20 WRX has a cold air intake, high flow exhaust, engine management system, and lightweight flywheel. It is capable of reaching 40mpg in 5th gear at 2,000 rpms. That knowledge has saved me from walking to the gas station before (when I left my wallet at home). 🤣👍

[@Kibwunga]

New or old aren’t really reasons to say an engine is better. The F series is most definitely beefier.

[@calebflora9304]

Agreed, not to mention stock performance and reliability. He’s not explicitly saying it, but he seems to imply that a well built and upgraded EJ does better than stock F series engines? Because let’s be real honest, the EJ had oiling issues and if you DIDN’T modify it, it WOULD blow under performance strain. I own engines for both, an EJ in a 2002 WRX wagon and an F-series in my 2021 Impreza Sport wagon, and while age and power output is a factor, my F-series has certainly held up better under hotlaps than the EJ, and the EJ was just rebuilt with a fresh short block BY a Subaru master tech after 155000 miles on the original engine. The EJ can be more easily modded, but REQUIRES it in order to endure the same intensity of driving as the F-series, in my experience. I’m also a lot more eager to help pioneer mods for the F-series, as centrifugal superchargers are often overlooked for Subaru engines, yet make so much sense, and have been holding up well on BRZs and other NA F-series thus far thanks to Subaru’s own years of experience and improvements for reliability within their engines.

[@levytrotsky2550]

For real. Give fa time and i bet it will catch the ej

[@iAmFAUST]

Cool, so show me a 1500 HP one, I'll wait. We seen 1500 EJs..

[@Kibwunga]

@@iAmFAUST What's the point? By the time the EJ hits 1500 HP, it no longer resembles the original engine. I think the vast majority of sub owners want to have a 200K plus mile car,.

[@iAmFAUST]

@Kibwunga nobody buys a sports car to keep forever with mileage like that I think that's why people buy Toyota camrys and corollas. Funny how every time opposition, in terms of performance, slaps the dick of truth on the foreheads of the delusional, they always seem to try to talk about reliability and lasting. Then keep it stock and of that's the case, the car with the STI EJ motor is still better. Now it is established better stock, and better ultimate build, but you want to defend in-between? Well, looks like there are 3 topics in this discussion and you at least lose 2 out of 3.

[@happygarage6310]

EJ, FA/FB, they both sound like tractors to me. They're both open deck blocks, which means modification in order for them to handle high hp.They both keep a low center center of gravity, which is a plus, and engine removal for either is very straightforward. Both engines are pretty simple. Cam timing from belt to chain isn't so different that it would be difficult to adapt. There's always gonna be a subaru following, I would say that either is a good entry-level engine to disassemble and learn about modern engines.

[@MIkegrimm2]

Another item to consider is the way it performs, the older era Subie engines just pulled better. It’s subjective, but there is something about that era of Subaru that has feel and Percy that the newer engines just do not have.

[@roygillotti4615]

Odd you mention fuel economy, My old 2011 EJ Impreza hatchback at best could get 26 MPG on my commute, I could get an average of 32 MPG on my 2015 FB Impreza hatchback on that same trip... However I threw all that economy out the window when I traded up a 2019 WRX, STi Drivetrain swapped it and did some performance modification and dyno tune.

[@jacobd7134]

2004 forester xt 232,000 miles (rebuildt once) 2018 forester xt 102,000 miles I like them both!

[@thomasfx3190]

I’m new to Subarus but my FB25 gets 31 mpg on the highway which is better than my first car which was a ‘67 VW Beetle!

[@danmc2678]

Mr. Subaru, it would be great to see a video on how to get better fuel economy on my 2005 EJ Outback? Outside of a stock tune-up, what mods would give better fuel economy?

[@bullnukeoldman3794]

I purchased a '14 Outback 6MT with the FB new in...2014. I'd traded one of my 2011s for it and noticed, from new, chain rattle - slight but pretty noticeable. Of course I had the dreaded oil consumption issues and had a warranty-replaced short block at 18k miles. I traded it in 2019 for a new F350 - that '14 Outback sadly couldn't tow a 16k lb. horse trailer. Replaced it with a one-owner 2010 6MT with an EJ and enjoy it much more than that '14.

[@eyes2338]

Which engine and transmission blows up quicker without after market mods when driven the same way.

[@als.688]

I got a nameless muffler delete on my 2015 foz 2.5 and i love the sound its a freakin beast👌🔥 sound like a mini truck loll

[@RR_1138]

My BRZ is a NA FA , it’s fun , no turbo lag , I use to solo drive w half a tank as that is the lightest/fastest the car will be. And 2016 I bought a 17 STI , cuz EJ 😊. My 15 BRZ manual is for sale BTW

[@peterross6050]

Hey Mr Subaru, I like your channel you keep it simple and informative. Do you think it makes sense to rebuild an EA82T engine?!

[@TheSharkGirls]

I would. It is cheap and easy compared to a swap. If you're happy with the way it normally drives. I have 2 fine non-turbo EA82 wagons and would love to pop a turbo in one, just for out bush.

[@Dytopjewa7631]

I think the older engine is more fuel efficient because of its timing belts..less drag and friction..

[@frankpattijr4718]

Ej series is always my favorite

[@melissasmess2773]

2001 Outback, 191,xxx miles, combustion gas in cooling system, works great until 100F outside. 👍🏻

[@AnhYeuEmMaiMai69]

FB is superior in terns of naturally aspirated output at 228HP (BRZ). As for your fuel economy claims, I have a 14 legacy 30mpg average when I drove it before giving it to my wife. I now drive a 2010 outback 3.6R and my average is 25mpg...I get nearly 29 on the highway. Also no $1K+ timing belts every 105K.

[@valkator]

The BRZ has an FA24 not a FB. That is a very cherry picked one since the latest FB25 from the 2025 Forester is at 180HP.

[@AnhYeuEmMaiMai69]

@@valkator point remains FA FB have their own advantages. Cherry picked lolololl try again.

[@GuilleSanchez.answers]

The unique rumble sound made the car more desirable. It's unfortunate that Subaru left the experience that the owners loved. Now, the WRX is a great option for those who need a four-wheel drive and don't need ground clearance. The EJ sound is the one that turns the heads of enthusiasts.

[@sauucynvs]

Ej for life

[@litchips]

Late model EJ with MLS head gasket FTW. BTW, do you recommend flushing CVT fluid on 2012 Outback at 120K miles if it has never been changed? Or it might start slipping and best just let it run at this point? This is California car and running OK now.

[@xyz-md2mv]

My EJ 25 is going strong as the rest of my '98 Legacy as well - 285 000 miles .....😉

[@Tony-59-films]

Great video 👍 love my subaru legacy 2011.

[@Antykain]

EJ will forever be iconic. No getting around that! Still have my old '01 Outback SUS with the NA EJ251 and has 264k miles on the clock. Still running good! As for the FA's, particularly the FA24DIT, gets 'cheap' horsepower. A simple air intake and tune can net you ~325-350 HP & 350+ TQ. There are quite a few tuners posting some insane results with very few mods on the FA24DIT.. My '15 VA WRX by comparison took quite a bit more to achieve comparable results. I now have a '24 VB WRX, but I'm keeping that warranty intact.. for the time being anywho. 😏

[@mranderson3927]

207 is the GOAT

[@adnanmoazzem4146]

Waiting to see upcoming videos on your subaru outback 2011. Have a similar car like that. Would want to work on the brakes, suspensions and shocks

[@Mike_44]

My ej255 finally died at 215k miles.. I replaced it with a newer jdm ej20x (same 255 but with better internals), even kept the EL headers a d twin scroll turbo. It already has 15k on it and going strong. But, you must take your time to research and do this swap correctly..

[@zachsummers3321]

Love my 22 impreza has almost 62,000 miles on it not one problem just normal maintenence. Beast in the ❄️, but fast is not one of them😅.

[@josephbreen9955]

100 % for me it's the sound and parts

[@avluis86]

As an FA20DIT owner I say boooo but it's true an EJ is lovely to work on.

[@mingyaowu7720]

The EJ engines feel more alive even at idle conditions. Even the stock ones.