2000 Subaru Outback from North America

Summary:

It's get up and go has gotten up and left

Faults:

We had a hesitation problem. If you were stopped and had to pull out somewhat quickly (i.e. pulling out onto a busy road) while the wheel was turned, the car would hesitate, as if it wasn't receiving gas. Although we complained about this numerous times, nothing was ever fixed. We then moved, switched service/dealer and suddenly discover the O2 sensor was bad. We were told this should fix the hesitation problem. Unfortunately we had just come out of warranty and Subaru (main office - not either dealer) has refused to cover the cost of the part (~$300) saying we did not document the problem enough prior to going out of warranty.

We have also had break issues which surprises us because we have over 100,000 miles on our Toyota and have not had to put in the amount of money that we already have to on the Outback.

General Comments:

We will not purchase another vehicle from the original dealer or Subaru.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 19th February, 2004

14th Jun 2004, 08:55

I purchased a 2004 Outback Ltd in November 03. I have had this hesitation problem as well. It is an issue that some people may not notice, but to me is very noticeable, and annoying. It is the only problem I have found with this otherwise remarkable vehicle. The dealer, to date, has not recognized the problem during a test drive.

It appears that the vehicle computer retards the timing or otherwise deprives the engine of fuel when it is needed most. Typically this occurs when starting from a stop (but also is noticable when going through 2'nd and 3'rd gear). The accelerator is pressed, clutch is engaged, and as rpms begin to climb, around 2000-2400 rpms, there is a "glitch", or "hiccup", and power is briefly unavailable. This results in a mild to moderately-strong "lurch". Acceleration is otherwise acceptable if you are not performance-oriented, but only marginally. This is a relatively heavy vehicle and the 4 cylinder engine design has probably been pushed to great lengths to allow it to power the vehicle.

It is frustrating that Subaru continues to allow buyers to purchase the H-6 motor only as part of the LLBean "foofy" (and probably very profitable) trim package.

2000 Subaru Outback 2.5L four from North America

Summary:

Decent car, expensive to keep running

Faults:

Head gasket leaking coolant at 30,000 miles. It was replaced and is leaking again at 62,000 miles (out of powertrain warranty).

It is on its third set of brake rotors due to warping.

The radiator has been leaking coolant at the core-to-top-tank junction for the last year.

It's leaking oil -somewhere- on the lower end of the engine. Getting drips on the garage floor.

Pulls to the right with the factory Firestone summer tires. It's fine with the winter Michelin Alpins mounted.

Terrible clutch clatter when cold. Clears after a few "hard" takeoffs. Dealer says it's "normal".

Multiple exhaust rattles from the heat shields and muffler.

About 22 MPG (US) overall. Not great for a 4-cyl with a manual trans.

Thin paint -- the nose is full of chips from road debris.

General Comments:

Superb in the snow with winter tires mounted (manual trans. is 50/50 front/rear torque bias).

I find it comfortable for long distance drives.

Love the heated seats...

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 16th December, 2003

16th Jan 2004, 14:12

That clutch shudder is normal, but Subaru also put out a TSB for it--TSB # 03-51-02R. This issue surfaced on my outback shortly after I bought it used (2000 limited wagon), and Anchor Subaru in North Smithfield of RI took good care of me--got Subaru to pay for all, but $100, and the dealer picked up the rest. I think I may have a leaky head gasket too.

2000 Subaru Outback 2.5 petrol from UK and Ireland

Summary:

An excellent purchase

Faults:

Replaced one number plate bulb.

General Comments:

The car has been totally reliable.

It should be noted that Subaru service intervals are frequent, but over the longer term will pay dividends in terms of reliability.

My previous car was a Legacy estate which also ran faultlessly.

Car lacks torque around 2500 revs. and needs kick down for swift overtaking.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 24th July, 2003