tomac24

Hi, I have a 97 OBW with 102K and have had trouble codes PO400 and PO420 pop up. They remain on for a few days then go off for a few and then return. I checked the EGR valve function (code 400) by holding the trottle around 3000 rpm and releasing it back to idle. The EGR valve moved at this signaling correct function, I assume. The seocnd code of 420 mentions the catalyst system being below threshold. Is there a way I can check its function without a trip to the mechanic? I was also wondering if the EGR valve might have become stuck and caused the improper catalyst flow. Any insight would be appreciated since inspection time is approaching and New York now checks emissions. The car drives and idles the same whether the check engine light is on or not, although there is a slight metallic pinging engine noise on the drivers side now. Maybe a valve or lifter?

Hello, I have a 97 outback MT with 101k. I purchased it with 65K and did a HG job at 79K. Other than that, I love the car. It drives like a tank in snow and AWD is great if you ever go off road for camping or biking. A friend of mine has a 98 outback with around 195K and had a a HG job done at 130K. He also has a 2001 outback with the SOHC 2.5. He likes the 98 better because he says it has more power (starting in 2nd gear, etc.) than the 2001. The week his 98 blew the HG, he bought the 2001. I think the outback should be ok for you, as long as you figure in a HG job sometime. (Mine cost around $1000) Tomac24