wfournier

Thanks for the info, how big a job is replacing the head gasket on a 2.5? If it's something I can do myself it might drive the price down if I can find one that isn't leaking bad. I've seen some people with over 300K on their H6's, is that to be expected with a well maintained car? Consumer reports overall gives the forester a better score than the outbacks, any idea what factors might be causing that? I'm not totally sure how much weight I give those ratings.

Well my 97 OBS is getting to the point where I think it is starting to make sense to look for something new. My main concern at the moment is that the body is starting to go away (rusted through at the wheel wells). Other than that the car is solid but I think it is starting to get to the point where rust is going to be a continual issue. I've been looking around a little and am leaning towards a used forester or outback. I'd like something with the capability to pull a small trailer for moving bigger things and some firewood (say 1/2 to a 1/3 cord at a time). I'm seeing quite a few available, many with high miles. I'm looking for what will be my best bet, any particular models/years to look for or avoid? I'm not afraid of some work, I've head the engine out of the OBS and worked on most every other part of it so I feel pretty comfortable with a wrench. How do the automatic transmissions hold up (current car is a 5 speed, wife doesn't want to learn and it would be good if she could drive it if needed)? How many miles should I expect one of these to go? If it's got a 180,000 miles on it is it done or with tlc good for another 100k? Sorry for the rambling, I guess bottom line, I'm looking for what tends to be issues with the newer models and what is going to give me the best bang for my buck.