Subaru EJ207 Engine Problems, Reliability, Specs
The Subaru EJ207 engine is a four-stroke introduced to the automotive market in 1991. The EJ207 is one of many variants manufactured by Subaru, belonging to the EJ series. The engine was only offered to the Japanese, U.K., and Australian automotive markets until it was succeeded by the current generation of Subaru FB engines. However, many American Subaru enthusiasts are purchasing the EJ207 for engine swap projects due to its power and performance.
The EJ207 is known to be more reliable and durable compared to similar Subaru engines such as the EJ257. Yet, like any engine, it does have its various problems as well. Regardless, the Subaru EJ207 engine should be respected for its power and exceptional performance. Throughout this article, we will further examine the EJ207 including power, specs, mods, and reliability.
Subaru EJ207 Engine Specs
| Engine | Subaru EJ207 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.5 (WRX/STI 1993-2000) 5.0 (WRX/STI 2000-2007) |
| Configuration | Boxer (Flat-4) |
| Displacement | 1994 cc (2.0L) |
| Bore x Stroke | 92.0 x 75.0 |
| Compression Ratio | 8.0 : 1 |
| Valvetrain Layout | DOHC |
| Block/Head Material | Aluminum |
| Horsepower | 220-328 hp |
| Torque | 198-318 lb-ft |
The EJ207 has a unique layout that is a signature of Subaru’s manufacturing style. The configuration offers drivers that indistinguishable Subaru sound and performance experience. Subaru utilizes a turbo that boosts this engine’s power to an impressive 220-328 horsepower.
This Subaru EJ207 engine responds extremely well to modifications and upgrades, especially with the appropriate support mods. The specs don’t lie; with up to 328 horsepower and 318 lb-ft of torque, the EJ207 can accelerate and keep up impressively.
Subaru EJ207 Reliability
When car consumers think of overall reliability their mind does not immediately think of Subaru’s. This is especially true considering the fact that other popular models within the brand have had consistent issues with oil consumption and other various electrical applications. Subaru had a total of three lawsuits against them starting in 2012, specifically due to claims of engine defects for the EJ25 engines.
The EJ207 does have a better track record than the EJ257 in terms of durability and longevity. However, the Subaru EJ207 does have its issues as well. The most prominent problems seem to be due to high oil consumption issues and various oil leaks. Fortunately, the EJ207 does have thicker block cylinder sleeves to protect the engine’s bore, as well as a better capability of cooling off the cylinder block compared to the 2.5-liter turbo engines from Subaru.
When compared to other Subaru models of the same era and size, the EJ207 ranks above average in terms of reliability. Many drivers report that their EJ207 engine is bulletproof, however, we found that too many essential repairs were needed after a mere 60K miles to agree with that label.
It’s important to note that The Subaru EJ207 is commonly modified and driven aggressively, which are two factors that do contribute to the reduction of any engine’s lifespan. With that said, let’s continue below examining some of the problems that make a negative impact on the EJ207’s overall reliability.
Subaru EJ207 Problems
Some of the most common problems for the Subaru EJ207 engine include:
- High oil consumption
- Oil leaks
- Engine Knocking
Although these issues made our list of common problems for the EJ207, it’s important to note that not all engines will experience them. However, high oil consumption and oil leaks do seem to be a prevalent issue for the Subaru EJ20 series engines. Especially due to the fact that most Subaru EJ20 engines currently on the road are up to 20 years old with considerable wear.
High oil consumption and oil leaks for the Subaru EJ207 engine have numerous different causes. The most common area for oil leaks within EJ20 engines is the camshaft seals and valve cover gaskets. It’s vital to check those two areas periodically, as they are the likely culprits of oil leaks. Oil leaks can lead to high oil consumption and further engine damage that will reduce the overall power and lifespan of the EJ20 engines.
Piston ring failure is also an extremely common catalyst for high oil consumption problems occurring within the EJ207. Like most cars, the EJ207 needs routine oil changes with high-quality oil in order to extend their mileage. High-quality engine oil and supreme fuel are crucial for both turbo EJ20 engines, including naturally aspirated versions. These issues are once again a reminder that proper maintenance and repairs are absolutely necessary.
1) High Oil Consumption & Oil Leaks
We recognize that turbo engines are prone to severe oil consumption and oil leak problems. The most obvious sign that oil leaks are occurring is dark oil puddles gathering underneath your car (aside from a newly lit dashboard light.) Drivers may also experience loss of power or acceleration when their Subaru EJ207 is experiencing severe oil leaks. The smell of burning oil and visible smoke emitting from the engine bay are also blatant signs that your engine is experiencing oil consumption problems. Camshaft seals, sparkplug tube seals, and piston access plugs may also be areas of concern.
Due to the wide variety of potential causes for high oil consumption in the Subaru EJ207, it is difficult to gauge repair costs. However, repairs for oil leaks on the Subaru EJ207 can range from $75 to $2000 plus depending on the parts needed and labor costs.
2) Engine Knocking Issues
This issue most commonly occurs on heavily worn Subaru EJ20 engines or those that have been heavily modified. A knocking sound and potential rattling are most likely stemming from problems with the 4th cylinder. The fourth cylinder is the hottest within the engine, therefore making it the most difficult to cool down. The increased heat then causes the cylinder to knock.
Drivers will likely experience engine knocking upon cold starts until the problem progresses to be more regularly occurring even after warming the engine up. Again, due to the variety of different causes for engine knocking, the repair costs can vary greatly. For example, a single spark plug replacement can cost five dollars, yet cleaning the engine heads can run you up to $800.
For more information regarding similar Subaru engine issues, check out our previous article on the most common Subaru EJ255 engine problems.
Subaru EJ207 Modifications and Tuning
The EJ207 is very popular amongst Subaru enthusiasts due to its ability to respond well to modifications. This engine has become associated with many engine swap projects on YouTube and various car forums. Any modded engine or engine swap project requires extreme care for detail in regards to fitment, proper installation, and balance of supporting mods. With good mods and a good tune, one can expect a substantial increase in horsepower and torque as well as a longer engine lifespan. The most common mods include:
- Tune
- New intake
- Downpipe/exhaust
- Intercooler upgrade
Some of the mods we listed can function independently, yet most require a proper tune. For example, a new intake can be installed independently without creating any damage to the EJ207 engine. However, when tuned, the power and performance benefits from a new intake can increase the full potential. Certain mods, like a new downpipe or exhaust, are much more dependent on a tune to even function properly.
The fact that the Subaru EJ207 was not manufactured in the U.S makes the engine more difficult to find properly fitting parts for in America. The early WRX models are greatly appreciated for their response to upgrades and mods, some drivers boasting an increase of over 100 horsepower on their projects. However, like any engine, the Subaru EJ207 requires knowledge and patience to see a great increase in power without compromising reliability.
Subaru EJ207 Engine Guide Summary
The Subaru EJ207 was utilized in the Japanese WRX models from 1991 to 2001 until succeeded by the EJ205. The engine is known for its performance capabilities and continues to live on through Subaru enthusiasts to this day. The respected performance and reliability make the EJ207 favored over the EJ257 for many engine swap projects as well. We find the engine to be rated as average to above average in terms of reliability and longevity. Issues with oil leaks, engine knocking, and other needed repairs seem to be common for the EJ207 before reaching 60-80,000 miles. There aren’t many glaring flaws with this engine’s unique design; however, it lacks the reliability we would need to call this engine bulletproof.
The EJ207 is one of the more respected engines in the companies history and specifically within the EJ20 series. The EJ207 responds well to modifications yet requires high-quality oil and consistent maintenance. As you add more horsepower, the engine will require more supporting mods. It is essential for the EJ207 engine to be appropriately tuned for those seeking the ultimate boost in power and overall performance. With these upgrades in sync, the EJ207 can be an exciting and impressive engine project for any enthusiast.