Mickey Maz

my 2004 outback 2.5l engine needs timing belt changed and the hoses replaced. my mechanic will replace water pump and use subaru parts. there is a slow oil leak from head gasket. i would like to just have him do the timing belt/hose work and leave the head gasket as i read that they can just have slow oil leaks for several thousand miles..by that time i may replace the car. the timing belt work would take a few hours and if i have the head gasket done i am without a car for a few days. has anyone had any experience doing this? any ideas on waiting? thanks

I have a 2004 Outback Wagon. A few years ago I developed some of the same symptoms you have. My dog refused to get into the car. I went out and bought a carbon monoxide detector..started the car and put on the heater with windows closed and did not get into vehicle..sure enough the alarm went off. I suggest you do the same to see if that is what is happening..you have a lot of the symptoms..and it will kill you. It corrected itself after a while...my brother said it sounded like some valve was probably stuck in the open position

Carbon monoxide is getting into car from the heater system as best I can determine. I had Subaru dealer check and they can't figure it out..plus I had a local mechanic look at car. Both checked exhaust system for leaks..none. There are no codes showing. With the air circulation on or the air conditioner it seems OK. I was feeling sick when in the car so I put a carbon monoxide detector on front seat with heater blower on and the alarm went off. Anyone have any ideas??