Hello to all, I'll be looking for some "what to look for" advice

[Nadanutcase]

Hello everyone,

 

An older engineer here (EE) on a short glide path to retirement (as soon as I wrap up selling my small business). And in conjunction with that I'm planning to retire the last of my little beater / commuter cars (Geo Metro) and look for about a 4 year old Forester or Outback.  I don't buy new and prefer to do my own wrench work to the extent possible; have two older Volvos as hobby cars ('70 and '71 1800E) and enough background to take on all maintenance and many overhaul tasks.  Over the years I've learned that there are always things to look for when buying any make &  model year (known weaknesses or general trouble spots) and since I'll be looking to buy privately, I figured I'd get on a forum like this to 'pick the brains' of those who have experience and can offer tips on what to look for.

 

My first question, after taking only a quick look at this message board, is this: Is the later model Forester / Outback feed the best place to post such generic questions or is there a better place?

 

 

Dave

in Iowa