jcole01108

I purchased a set of Falen ZE512s for my 2000 Subaru Outback and am happy with them. They are very quiet and hold the road well and are inexpensive. They can be had for $55-$73 a piece depending on where you get them.

Had the same problem on my 2000 Outback. There is a techniocal service bulletin about it. They applied some sealer and cleaned the gutters or so I was told and I have never had the problem again. I also had a mystery problem with the moon roof opening on its own in the rain. Lovely experience. Only happened once.

A two part question: If I can get Subaru to replace some of the pistons under warranty, which I gather is their repair of choice these days for the problem, what is the risk they will do the repair well? In other words how risky a repair is it? Now the second part of the question: this vehicle, a leased vehicle, has been pretty reliable and fun to drive and except for the piston slap, brakes and a front wheel bearing has caused no pain so I am considering buying it at the end of the lease, but I am strongly hesitant because of the piston slap. Would you hesitate as well?

So.....at 51K miles I should just live with it or press Subaru to fix it which means.... piston replacement or short block replacement but which may only be a temporary fix... is that about right?

I called 1-800-subaru3 today to try to get the piston slap I experience on cold starts on my 2000 Outback limited. with slightly under 51K miles, fixed. I was told that it is normal, that it can't be fixed, that some have tried replacing the short block, changed pistons, tried various liquids or different octane gasoline but because of the design of the pistons, "they all fail". I was also told that the Subarus in their fleet in New Jersey have the problem. The bottom line: they won't fix it and it won't harm the engine, so don't worry about it. So, I am curious, how many Subaru owners do in fact live with the problem?

Geez, on my 2000 Outback the brakes are great ... saved me numerous times.

I've had my 2000 Outback Limited since it was new. Only have slightly under 51k on it. I have replaced the brakes and calipers, had a front bearing go, the heat shield on the catalytic convertor loosened up and had to be fixed. I have the dreaded piston slap which I have taken to the dealer three times only to be told that it is normal. IThe ticking does disappear when warm. Other than that, the car has been great. Rides confortably, quietly and has gotten me through New England winters without a problem.