1995 Subaru Outback L 2.2L EJ22 from North America
Summary:
Best car I ever owned
Faults:
Worn interior from previous owner at 108,000 miles.
Some dash lights replaced at 110,000 miles.
Oxygen sensor replaced at 130,000 miles.
Knock sensor replaced at 140,000 miles.
Alternator and battery replaced at 150,000 miles.
Rust developing at 160,000 miles.
Transmission failure (reverse) at 190,000 miles.
General Comments:
This remains the best car I ever owned.
The only engine "problem" was a very slow oil leak. About a half quart every 3000 miles.
The interior looks and feels cheap, but is very durable, aside from the seat fabric.
The only thing that ever annoyed me was the wind whistle coming from the worn side view mirror "triangles", a problem that plagues Subaru cars and is due to the frameless windows. My fix was installing a Kenwood Excelon stereo. ;)
About a half dozen repairs over the years, and most were cheap and easy enough to do myself with just a guidebook - and I am not really a "car guy". The alternator and battery dying was the only time it ever left me stranded, and I was able to swap out both in about an hour.
After reverse went out I sold the car to a friend who needed cheap transportation. It's still on the road and he's only had to replace a worn seal!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 3rd February, 2009
25th Apr 2010, 10:35
I agree with your sentiments. I have a manual Outback myself 181k and still running great, can go on 6-7 hours trips with no problems. I have had similar issues with the car, I had to replace oxygen sensors, clutch, caliper, rotors etc; easy to work on. This car was a deal of a lifetime for me, I bought it in 2002 with 120k miles on it. I only wish I could find a similar deal.