I am helping a friend of mine shop for a new car and she sent me a link to a 2000 outback with 75,xxx miles. The price tag looks to be higher than I would have thought. the Ad is asking for $6500. What should I make sure of before concidering shelling out that much on a 14 year old car?

 

She has had some real lemons in the past and is very concerned about mechanical issues. It took some convincing to talk her out of a new car because the warranty could provide her some peace of mind. I know these cars have issues with head gaskets and thermostats.( I have a 2000 outback limited)

 

So I guess the biggest question I have is what should I ask about to ensure the risk of mechanical issues is smaller. I want he to either spend the money on a mechanically sound car or leave her with enough money to fix it when it has troubles.

 

thanks,

PC

The headgaskets are probably one of the big things to ask about and if the timing belt was done recently.  I'm not sure if those engines are due at 60k or 100k.  That's the other thing to keep in mind...if she keeps it, the timing belt and water pump probably should be done around 100k.  So that's maybe a bargaining tool if she really wants to get it.

Timing belt due at 105,000 on the SOHC 2.5.

 

My 2000 Outback HGs went out at 92,000 miles.  Lucky for me!  Subaru picked up the tab for them and I had them do the timing belt and associated parts at the same time.  I only paid for parts.