Hi! I own a well-loved 2003 Legacy Wagon. In the last year, it has started having issues with the engine missing, especially at lower altitudes (I live at 7,000'), but it's now just bad all the time. It putts and bucks and sometimes dies at idel at an intersection. My mechanic is stumped and so am I. Also frustrated.

Any ideas?

Lorilee

Hi This is Jerry, we had a 98 outback that did that when we first got it, took it to Subaru they put the scan tool on it but found nothing. Then the service manager ask what gas are we putting it I said just seven elven gas. The manager said wrong so had the fuel filters change and put high test shell in it and problem solved never had that problem again. That's my story Thanks Jerry

Usual causes for missing - spark plug wires, ignition coil, spark plugs. When was the last time these were changed? Plug wires in particular don't often last long - especially if they are not Subaru or NGK wires. Check also for oil on the plugs/bottom of the plug wires as it's a common issue with an easy fix.

 

I've also had mass air flow cause intermittent but worsening symptoms like that. 

 

Fuel related issues could be clogged filter or a dying fuel pump.

 

We're at 337,000 miles on our 2000 Legacy Outback so it's well worth some effort to keep them running well.

Thank you both! I'll pass this on to my mechanic. @ Jerry - interesting about the gas - I thought it was bad for the engine to use higher octane gas! but it does remind me of the way my old BMW behaved with the regular gas. Hmmm.

Lori