I just bought a 2001 Subaru Outback Sport standard. It is in great shape except. When I first start the car and it is cold. The shift between 1st and 2nd gear feels very rough and chaddery. Once you get the car warmed up it goes away. What is it? Is this the clutch?

 

Thanks for the help

Yup, it's the clutch. The late 90s early 00s used an organic material in the clutch that causes the stuttering because it does a lot of expanding and contracting. It'll also lead to the clutch wearing out a little faster. It's not really doing much damage, it's just a pain in the arse. I had the same problem on my Forester.

Does it do it when you start off in first gear too? Here are some related threads:

 

http://www.ultimatesubaru.org/forum/showthread.php?t=12131

http://www.ultimatesubaru.org/forum/showthread.php?t=6251

 

How many miles? If it's under 60k, you might be able to get them to replace it under warranty...

 

I've learned to live with it, even though mine does it warm and cold, but only when starting out in first.

I just bought a 2001 Subaru Outback Sport standard. It is in great shape except. When I first start the car and it is cold. The shift between 1st and 2nd gear feels very rough and chaddery. Once you get the car warmed up it goes away. What is it? Is this the clutch?

 

Thanks for the help

 

If it is not under warranty, I can put the new clutch in for you. Go online and get the upgraded clutch disc, then give me a PM. The alternative is to wait until the clutch starts slipping (as it will do all too soon, as that chattering is tearing up the clutch lining), and have me replace it then. The advantage to going with me over a shop is that I come to you so you do not have to leave the car for days at a shop. I'm also cheaper than a shop, as I have less overhead. On a clutch replacement, I also send the freewheel out to be surfaced so that the new clutch has a good surface to grab onto. This increases the life of the new clutch dramaticly, not to mention the performance of same. . .