Hi, I'm new here and have a general question. I have a '98 Outback wagon with 88,000 miles on it. When I start the car, I get a knocking/pinging sound until the car warms up. I checked the oil etc. Just wondering if I should be concerned.

Thanks.

A few possabilities here. the first thing that comes to mind is piston slap.

Do a search here and you will find out as long as the noise goes away, its nothing to worry about.

 

I do wish to point out that you are due for a timing belt. Maintanence is either or time vs mileage (105,000 miles OR 105 months/8 years). Rubber belts don't last for ever, same goes with all the seals. This is something you may want to think about.

 

http://www.cars101.com/subaru/subaru_maintenance.html#90-99maintenance

 

 

nipper