tom dennen

My family owns 4 subarus, (93 & '05 imprezza; 99 & 06 SOB). My son's '93 with the 1.8 L engine has 140K on it and seems to run and run. However my '99 OB with 49k miles just blew a head gasket. Two months earlier the dealer put in 'coolant' conditioner and explained it was a lubricant for the water pump and gasket conditioner. After researching I learned they applied the 'solution' SOA reccomended for '99-'02 cars. Repairs included new radiator, thermasat, water pump, and machining the heads. The cost was estimated to be $2k+. I was PISSED. This happened to me with a 5 year old Ford T-Bird that I'd bought new. I switched to Subaru EXPECTING to be done with mickey mouse problems like this. The dealer ended up charging me $440. SOA was not helpful stating the obvious and noting that the warrenty expired years ago. (Does this mean I should buy the extended warranty.. or Hyundai?) Over the past 18 months other unexpected problems have occured (oil pump, o2 & knock sensor failed, HVAC control module failed) costing $1.5K to repair. Can I expect continuing worsening quality problems with the '99? My faith in Subaru aledged 'quality' is dimming!!!