Hey everyone

 

I'm currently in the market for a new vehicle. Previously owned hondas/acuras but after an oil pump failure, I'm changing it up. I've decided that I want a subaru, specifically a wagon (cargo space). As I'm new to Subaru, I'm looking for any useful info. I'm looking at between a '97 to '02 with a 5 speed. Is there a mileage limit (where things go horrible) or any other things to look out for, or to look for when purchasing? I'm needing a reliable vehicle and I'm trying to do my research.

 

Thanks everyone.

best to avoid the 97-99 Ej25 DOHC motor. Known for repeat head gasket failures. Look for one with an EJ22 or get one with a known bad motor and replace with an EJ22. Check for overheating signs/bubbles in coolant.

 

99+ learn to look for external and internal head gasket leaks. (Usually external on these motors) A little weeping is fine, but this is the beginning of the failure. Big bonus if headgaskets are already replaced and done right. Done right the headgaskets will be done once and not need it again.

 

Ensure that all 4 tires are same size, brand a wear. Drive slow tight circles to feel for torque bind.

 

Avoid anything with a turbo unless you care to have more frequent and expensive maintenance.

 

Subarus can last a very long time, and are easy to work on so they are often worth it from prior owners to get new/low miles engine and transmissions. I've seen them with over half a million miles on the clock. The bigger thing to look for over mileage is how well the car was cared for. Clean, smooth, well maintained cars last. Good service history records and such help. Most cars will tell you whether they have been cared for or not if you know what to look for.

Edited April 28, 20178 yr by AdventureSubaru

best to avoid the 97-99 Ej25 DOHC motor. Known for repeat head gasket failures. Look for one with an EJ22 or get one with a known bad motor and replace with an EJ22. Check for overheating signs/bubbles in coolant.

 

99+ learn to look for external and internal head gasket leaks. (Usually external on these motors) A little weeping is fine, but this is the beginning of the failure. Big bonus if headgaskets are already replaced and done right. Done right the headgaskets will be done once and not need it again.

 

Ensure that all 4 tires are same size, brand a wear. Drive slow tight circles to feel for torque bind.

 

Avoid anything with a turbo unless you care to have more frequent and expensive maintenance.

 

Subarus can last a very long time, and are easy to work on so they are often worth it from prior owners to get new/low miles engine and transmissions. I've seen them with over half a million miles on the clock. The bigger thing to look for over mileage is how well the car was cared for. Clean, smooth, well maintained cars last. Good service history records and such help. Most cars will tell you whether they have been cared for or not if you know what to look for.

 

 

 

Thanks, this is the kind of info I need.

2000-2004 sticks have a nicer ride than the 97-99.  Ditto on the 2.5 comments of that era from adventure Subaru.

consider a pre-purchase inspection. If soobs have been thru more than one owner, it's easy for them to have been abused. A good shop should know where to look for issues. RUN if you see mis-matched tires.

 

start locating a soob-friendly independent repair shop near you. Ask about pre-purchase inspection as well as if they have a customer thinking about selling.