jtendzone

Thanks for the reply, I do not know much about working on engines etc. but have several friends that are mechanics etc...Do you reccomend getting the Haynes Repair Manual for this car?? Is it worth having as a resource to potentially diagnose problems etc.? The headlights just seem to be dimmer and I thought I could upgrade the quality of light... Also since it appears that my Outback has reached an age that will require more attention I thought I would educate myself and try and save some money... Thanks again..this Web forum seems to be for the experienced car person but very informative!

I have a 98 Outback Legacy and recently have had to replace the front and rear brakes and rotors and now the engine recently started smoking and the mechanic said it was bad valve covers leaking onto the exhaust. Does this sound right or do you think this could be related to the recent recall I saw about late 90 models having to do with the CV Boot(??) and leaking.... The mechanic said the job was mostly labor because of what needed to be removed to get to the valve covers to replace??? Also i would like to replace all headlights and fog lights and the dash light for the air system has gone out.... Can anyone give me some feedback and point me in the right direction? Thanks