I have been in love with the little wrx's for quite some time. Finally scraped up the cash to get one and a mechanic friend tells me to stay away they leak oil like crazy? Lots of internet sites support his claim. But is this even with the latest models? Something to do with turbo/high oil temp or something? Am going car shoppign tomorrow any suggestions. Also wondering how quickly these WRX's are moving so I know how hard to push dealer(s).

I have been in love with the little wrx's for quite some time. Finally scraped up the cash to get one and a mechanic friend tells me to stay away they leak oil like crazy? Lots of internet sites support his claim. But is this even with the latest models? Something to do with turbo/high oil temp or something? Am going car shoppign tomorrow any suggestions. Also wondering how quickly these WRX's are moving so I know how hard to push dealer(s).

 

They move very quickly, which is why they are so popular. . .

 

If they are leaking from high oil temps, then switching to a synthetic oil should help. I have not heard that they leak by any inordinate ammount, though. they are a great little car, but I would never own one. I hate to see potential wasted. And if I drove this car to it's potential, I would be in jail very quickly. . .

What do you want, dependable daily driver or hot wheels? I'm sure the WRX would be a fantastic ride but I'd bet with any turbo you're looking at higher potential maintenance and repair problems down the road.

 

But don't listen to me--I'm an old fogey whose greatest thrill is figuring out his mpg after a fillup!

 

Good luck!

Olnick is correct in that a turbo will cost you more in maintainance, but be more fun to drive. They also tend to wear out faster as people tend to drive them harder, just because they can. . .

They don't leak oil any more than any other car. Yes the oil gets hot, but they also have small built in oil coolers. ANY car is only as reliable as you drive it. TONS of high mileage turbo Saabs out there, and plenty of high milegae turbo Subarus as well. There are a lot of us out here that race bone stock and modified motors that don't have any problems.

 

Keith