Hello, everyone!
I've got a 1994 Legacy Wagon L in my possession to have inspected by a mechanic before I buy it. I've read a lot on here (THANKS!) and have a list of specific items to be checked. From what I've read, if the body's not rusting, this car should be a great buy. ($2200 asking with 103,000 miles. I intend to offer $2000 if nothing is majorly wrong.) I think it needs brake work because the travel seems very long on the pedal. The idle also seems funny, which leads me to think the IAC is involved after reading on here. Otherwise, except for scratches on the body, it seems like a great car. CERTAINLY better than the POS '96 Ford Contour I'll be selling after I finish fighting with the dealer over whether the wiring harness recall covers the battery cable that ate through my battery casing. (Yes, you read that correctly.) FYI--Don't buy a Contour and avoid Koons Ford in Falls Church, VA.
But I digress.
Here's my question: I parked it in my garage space tonight and when I got out was almost overwhelmed by the exhaust smell. Does this ring a bell with anyone? I have read on here a number of postings about grease getting on the exhaust and having a smell for a long time. I know the current owner had the front axle (axles?) replaced, but that was in December 2002. Since she parks it outside, I suppose she may never have noticed the smell.
Thanks for any replies, especially any that might come before I hand over the money. I really like this car and will be very upset if I have to decide against it, but after the Contour reliability is my primary need.
Geoffrey
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Washington, DC