I'm getting ready to buy a 2000 outback limited or a 2002 outback. When I go to check these out, what should I look for? I need a checklist from you guys so I can make the best possible decision. If you don't mind, of course. I'm mainly concerned with a headgasket leak, and where to look for this problem. Thanks for your time!

The head gaskets on these model years can develop an external leak that SOA should have or will (if you get a dealer to check the records) install an additive in the cooling system to "prevent" the leak. This extends the warranty to on the gaskets to 100K miles. It's more of a minor seepage than an outright leak and is a cooler weather problem. Apparently, in very cold weather the gasket has a very minor leak until the engine warms up.

 

Given a choice between a Limited and an Outback, I'd go Limited.

BUT, I'd go newer model year first, especially since 2000 was the first year for that model.

 

Tough choice.

True about the external HG leak. I'd go with the 02 model, just coz it's newer...