I have a Suburu Outback with 311,000 miles. The timing belt went out and the shop wants to replace the pistons without having gone in yet and checking, simply because of the high mileage on car to the tune of $3600.00. Do you think that pistons would need replacing? I don't have $3600.00, nor anywhere near that kind of dough. Will the timing belt still work without replacing pistons? I've had another car that pistons were banging and this car didn't make the same noise. Advice would be appreciated.

not so much the pistons that you have to worry about as the valves.

97 and newer are interference motors - meaning when the timing belt gives out there is a very good chance the valves will be damaged.

I would suggest finding a different shop - one that specializes in Subarus - and get a 2nd opinion before you spend anything.

if at all possible, take it to; http://superiorsoobie.com/