I have a 1996 Outback. 160,000 miles, but the motor has a severe oil leak and a bad engine knock. The body and interior are in good condition.

 

I am thinking of selling, but would like to find out how much this car would be worth as is. I live in Charlottesville, VA. Any ideas?

With a bad motor, maybe $500 to $800, maybe not that much. It is difficult to sell in that condition. You may be better off trading it in on a newer car at a dealer.

$450-600 in my neck of the woods. Most guys will just yank the motor and drop a different one(usually a cheap 2.2) in and away you go. By the time you are done with all the seals and proper stuff-see all the swap info-you are into it about $1,500. That is if you pay to have it done.

 

I think those 96 OB's were 'supposed' to take premium fuel.

 

A 2.2 is probably the most sensible thing to do.

 

I'd say the posts so far about the value of the car and the cost of a replacement engine are good estimates.

 

Dave

$500-$800 is about right depending on condition/options...leather, sunroof, paint, etc. it's very dependent on the market. it's "possible" to get $1,000, just unlikely. if we told everyone in the US $1,000....probably 1 out of 100 might sell for that. if you go for $500 then it'll be 80/100 will sell. made up numbers but i think you get the picture.