SRGAbe

Folks, I have a 96 Outback (2.5) with a little over 100,000 miles on it. I had a coolant leak and the dealeship has diagnosed it as needing a new short block. The estimate is $4700 and the blue book on the car is $4100. Is this a wise move or is it the start of worse things to come. I love the car and with winter approaching, I would like to keep it rather than spend more for a late model used one. Thanks. It cost me $ 5000 after a 10 % discount!. A dealer installed shortblock, new water pump and timing belt and a couple of heads. They asked me to break it in by driving at different RPMs, any suggestions from the guru community? Thanks. Sam

Folks, About three months ago, my check engine light came on and the dealer diagnosed it as the knock-sensor problem and replaced it. Since then, my gas-mileage has dropped noticeably. It was not great to start with (on hi-test!). It has gone down from about 20 mpg to about 15.4. Naturally I am reluctant to go back to dealer for another $75 on diagnosing this if there is something I can do myself. Any suggestions? Sam