SubieShop

We replace valve bodies occasionally at work. Same condition you have, where it drives just fine but the lights flare up. Not sure how long you'll have before issues actually arise or if you ever do but one customer got almost 5k miles before she got scared and had us replace it.

The outback is extremely rusty. Not sure Id want to reuse the parts coming off the underside or not.

Things to watch out for is rough idles or engine stalling coming to a stop. We like to change the fluid every 60k. If you or whoever does the work notices the fluid is still dark coming out of the overflow or fill hole after changing, change it again. It should be the light green color or close to it.

I can't remember years specifically but from experience it's roughly the 2010-2012 years.

I just so happen have a '98 outback parts car. I'll see if the brackets are even reusable since the car is a rust bucket.

I've read that the rear didn't raise as much as the front with the forester suspension. What was your experience with it and about how much lift did you get? Also what year forester gear did you use?

I've got a 1996 Subaru Legacy L Wagon. Recently put a Frankenmotor (original 2.2 heads with 2.5d block) in it and need a few inches of lift to clear the all terrain tires I'm wanting to put on. I've pretty much decided to try the same year outback strut/spring combo to get another inch or two. What brand/website or parts store have people been happy with as far as replacement suspension components go? I prefer to buy the whole preassembled strut/sprint combo is possible but I'll make do with what I can find. I appreciate any tips or experience you guys can share!

I work on Subarus everyday. We've got customers getting over the 200k mark without any issues at all. In fact we've never had to replace a cvt. Some of the earlier gens put up a Christmas tree on the dash (all lights flare up) and replacing the valve body fixes the issue. And Subaru does sell their genuine cvt fluid by the quart now. It's a clear, minty green fluid that almost smells like liquorice. To get back on topic, the cvt are holding up well (except the first two or so years they were produced) and if you don't mind how they drive as opposed to a traditional automatic don't fear buying the newer Subarus.

I'm in Franklin, NC. You in Boone?

Hey guys! Just popping in to introduce myself, currently own two Subaru's. Just started daily driving a 96 Legacy L that I built a Frankenmotor for. Only 200 miles on the new engine so far. Bought the car for $150, built the engine and back on the road after a total of $930! (Hint: I am a mechanic for a small independent Subaru shop in Western NC, so I've got a bunch of spare parts and nic nacks lying around). Once I figure out how to upload some pictures I'll show you what I got. I'm planning on painting the car and wheels soon so hopefully you guys can help me decide on colors. I'm buying a 98 forester tomorrow for $500, so that'll be subie #3!