cowboyFunkie

My 2002 and 1996 outbacks..... The 1996 is actually a write-off (sensitive airbag deployment), insurance company is towing her away tomorrow even though she suffered no front end damage and runs perfectly fine

I had a faulty knock sensor for over a year on my 96 OB, kept tripping the CEL and I'd just clear it evertime with OBD2 diagnostic program loaded on my laptop. I eventually shelled out the $100 for a new knock sensor and the problem went away. CF

ok, checked with local dealer, drivetrain covered up 5 yrs or 100K. I'm thinking of getting extended warranty in light of head gasket if the price is right. btw - local dealer tells me they don't get that many blown head gasket jobs on the phase II.

Thanks again, one last clarification, is 2002 engine Phase I or Phase II? I've got a 2002 OB (87,000 km) lined up to buy in a couple of days but don't like all the head gasket threads I'm reading. I thought I read Phase II head gaskets are covered under warranty up to 100,000 miles somewhere on this board. Don't see anything for head gaskets under warranty check on CARFAX report I ran. CF

Thanks Gnuman Anyone care to let me know what "SEFI" in 2.5L H4 SEFI DOHC 16V means? Thx CF

I'm thinking of buying a 2002 outback shortly, and want to know if the 4 cylinder 2.5 L engines are interference or non-interference. I have a 96 outback at the moment, but I know the engines have changed since. I recall the new engines went through some growing pains from 1997-2000 ish. Any major issues with the 2002 models that anyones knows about? Thanks for any help CF

Thanks for your comments everyone, I did forget to mention the passenger side airbag did put a few cracks in the windshield, but its still intact. I'll try the recall angle with the dealer and see what happens. Even if I find cheap(er) replacements, not too sure about intalling them myself. While I routinley work on the engine, brakes and such, not sure I'd have the same confidence with airbags. Think a layman like me could do it? Looks like some special tools are required according to last post.

Hello all, its been awhile. Still faithfully driving my 96 outback, but have encountered a setback... I lightly rear ended someone, not even a scratch on my front bumper, nor the rear bumper on the car in front. Thing is, both airbags deployed. I was able to drive away and the car drives perfectly. I've checked out the front end, nothing seems wrong. Subaru dealer now tells me its going to cost $4000 to replace the bags. So do I go through insurance (possible write off) or is there something else I can do? Don't want to drive without airbags. Could these have deployed prematurely? Any advice? CF