My original Email:

 

"Hi!

I hope you can give me a definitive answer about

these Phase I engine head gasket problems? I'm looking into buying a

used Legacy Gt, they all have these Phase I engines. Just what IS the

problem? Is it simple the head gaskets themselves that blow? Are there

bad heads, that make the gaskets go? Are the blocks that these heads

and

gaskets are sitting on are bad? I hope you can give me an experienced

answer!"

 

 

Subaru of America reply:

Thank you for visiting the Subaru Web site and for your interest in

Subaru products! We appreciate you taking the time to contact us.

 

The WWP-99 Engine Cooling System Conditioner is a service program (not

a recall.) In short, Subaru has determined that over time, affected

vehicles may develop small external coolant leaks at engine cylinder head

gaskets. This is the result of normal expansion and contraction of

engine components caused by the heating and cooling of these parts. To

prevent cylinder head gasket leaks from developing or to correct existing

leaks, a special Subaru Cooling System Conditioner should be added to

affected vehicle cooling systems.

 

If you opt to purchase a vehicle affected by this program, you simply

need to contact your local Subaru dealership to schedule this service at

no cost to you.

 

I hope this information is helpful to you, but should you have further

questions, please let me know and I'll do my best to assist you

further.

 

Best Wishes,

 

John J. Mergen

Subaru of America, Inc.

 

 

 

 

My original Email:

 

 

Best Wishes,

 

John J. Mergen

Subaru of America, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

I had a big e-mail argument with Mergen a while back about fuel economy.

the "service campaign" that he is refering to does not concern the phase I engines. the phase I engines have an internal leak, where cylinder pressure is blown into the cooling system. the phase II engines have an external leak, where pressurized coolant forces itself out of the block. a stop leak, which he was refering to, will correct the external leak, since it can plug the leak, but will do nothing for an internal leak, where it will be pushed out of the way.

 

my recommendation would be to stay away from all phase I engines. they have not proved to be a reliable engine. some will be fine, but it is a signifigant gamble that you should be well aware of from the get-go...

Like he said, "normal expansion and contraction of the engine". Just like the wheel bearings, sun visors, transmissions, fuel sending units, etc.

 

I gotta keep mine running because I couldn't afford the repairs on a new one.

Everyone can make a mistake, but that is a little sad that they guy didn't even clue in on the "Phase I" reference in your email. The answer isn't even pertinent!

 

Commuter

SOA rep train of thought: scan email, read "head gasket", copie and paste saved answer.