2000 outback (automatic, 230,000 miles) broke down on me in last July.
Looked under the hood and the crankshaft pulley was dangling/had basically fallen off. We replaced the balancer, bolt, and woodruff key but the car wouldn't start. Replaced the timing belt and even bought a timing belt guide (sits above the crankshaft sprocket). Cranks but won't start; backfires. We checked all the relays and even replaced the coil pack. Timing is fine, and fuel is getting in. Gonna check for spark tomorrow.
For a little history, before she broke down she was throwing the following codes:
P0420 (catalyst efficiency below normal -bank 1)
P0122 (throttle position sensor circuit low input)
P0731 (gear 1 incorrect ratio)
P0440 (EVAP system performance)
I can't find the paper now, but I also seem to remember an additional code for a cylinder misfire. Before breaking down, I was frequently having the following problem: at around 70mph, the AT temp light would flash and I would lose RPMs and lose acceleration, causing me to pull over and turn the car off for several minutes.
Reincarnation in ABQ said they "fixed" this problem by replacing the Transmission Control Module. however, the issue persisted occasionally and was never really solved.
Any suggestions besides checking for spark? Anyone experienced similar issues with AT light and losing RPMs/acceleration?
