1998 Subaru Outback Limited 2.5L boxer
Summary:
Great little runabout if you can find one that has had the dead gaskets replaced
Faults:
From about 200,000Km:
1. Rear struts clunking (did not fix).
2. O2 sensor failure (front, check engine light on but did not fix).
3. Anti knock sensor failure (bypassed it).
4. Front CV joint (2) bellows split (did not fix).
5. Blown headlights (multiple).
6. Using engine oil.
7. Overheating.
8. Cooling system pressurizing and discharging coolant.
9. Cold engine knock (piston slap).
10. Radiator (R) plastic tank split, discharging coolant.
General Comments:
I paid 8 grand for this car and I loved it. I travelled 100,000Km in it on long and short trips. I had a Subaru dealer perform the 200,000Km service where all fluids and filters were changed as well as the timing belt and pulleys. This service cost me $1,400!
From 6 above to 10 was the slow decline and death of this car. The overheating is caused by faulty head gaskets installed from, I believe the 1995 model right up to the 2004 model. This is why I did not buy another one, as low mileage Subi's are hard if not impossible to find, and I didn't want to run the risk of a repeat performance. Combustion gasses leak into the cooling system through the faulty head gaskets. This over pressurizes the cooling system. It also causes hot spots at the top/outer end of the cylinders, which in turn causes wear. Thus the cold engine knock and the consumption of engine oil. I feel the radiator failed due to the increased pressure within. These things happened over time however. I never got stuck while I carried extra water though.
It was a great little 'luxury' car that never let me down until the very end. Brilliant on gravel with the 'hold' function engaged. Not the most economical at 10l/100Km (my 4L Falcon does as well), but a well built, comfortable little car.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 24th May, 2019