Faults:
Blown Head Gaskets; once at 102,000 kilometers and both leaking now at 268,000 kilometers. First repair was warranty, still discussing with my dealer (and Subaru Canada) this time.
Faulty Knock sensor (check engine light) gone twice. First time about 3 years ago, now again in December, 2006.
Exhaust heat shields rattling when accelerating. Continually having them fixed by dealer at least a few times a year.
Strong smell of raw gasoline in winter time when car first starts up. Under some extreme conditions, smell will last for days. Dealer has identified the problem as leaking fuel lines that they re-tighten periodically.
Heated smell in car (like coolant or burning rubber) in hot summer months. Cause has never been pinpointed.
Oil sensor switch leaking now and just replaced at 268,000 kilometers.
General Comments:
In spite of the mechanical issues I had (and continue to have), this car offers a nice quiet and solid ride.
Well appointed options and interior have made long road trips very comfortable. No interior rattles, etc.
Even though it only is powered by a 2.5-liter engine, it still offers decent off the line acceleration and highway passing power.
Was broad-sided by a guy running a red light at 65 KPH (roughly 40 mph) and walked away without a scratch. Very safe car to drive.
19th Feb 2007, 21:06
North of the 49th reporting back on my head gasket woes. I don't have to worry about dining on crow, as I suspected I wouldn't.
My dealer reported back to me that Subaru Canada couldn't provide any additional support on my vehicle with respect to the blown head gaskets (for the second time). The reason was the amount of kilometers driven since the last time it occurred. How many times should one expect this problem to occur over the life of the vehicle?
The original dealer quoted my $1500.00 plus taxes to repair, but was prepared to work a deal of a minimum of 10% off the bill. I thought it might be worth getting a couple of additional quotes just to compare. Quote #2 was $1269.53 including all taxes; quote #3 was $1040.00 including all taxes and the inclusion of a new timing belt with the head gasket work. It apparently pays to shop around a bit! By the way, quote #2 is an exact price because the shop that quoted me had just done the same job on another 2000 Outback and was able to show me the paperwork.
As I suggested before, in general, I have loved driving my 2000 Outback and generally have received good service by my local dealer. It's just a shame Subaru Canada wasn't there to provide them with any support when needed.