Hello USMB listers!

 

I've been lurking and learning about these Subies for awhile and am also actively looking to buy one. I came across a local listing for a 98 Impreza hatchback with 113k on it. I haven't gone to see it yet, but I intend to soon.

It has the 2.2 engine and an automatic. The owner has had it about 2 to 3 years and states that he hasn't done to much to it from a maintenance perspective. What should I be looking out for here?

 

"1998 Subaru Impreza for sale. It is black with tan interior. Has 113000 miles, auto, power windows and locks. Cruise control doesn't work most of the time. The body does have some rust and scratches, but not too bad. Needs nothing. This car is awesome in the snow. Asking $2500 firm. KBB is $4000+"

 

 

Gerald:rolleyes:

the main things I would be concerned with is if the service is up to date (60 and 90k services) It WILL likely need a major tuneup at 120K which is close. Also rust... just how bad is it (not an issue on my side of the country, but we rarely use salt)

Keep looking. I dont like the fact that it may not have been really maintained well and the rust issues.

 

 

nipper

Most cars up here in central NY have some rust at the age of 10, so, short of going south to Pennsylvania or farther, it is inevitable.

I've been looking for awhile and have not seen too many for less than $3K with less than 130K miles.

But, maybe I will keep on looking, but I may have a look at this car anyways.

113,000 miles....besides the major maintience...Has the T-belt been changed...this is an interference motor....I would take it for a good long cruise and check for any symptoms of torque bind...besides these....do a thorough "go-over" of the whole under body (suspension,brakes,steering etc etc...)....It does sound to me like this car has had somewhat a rough life..being in NY with the rust and salt +being 10 years old...

The cars on my side of the state SW PA aren't so good on the japanese rust either. Underneath the body will be fine. But those rear fender wells, filler tube, etc are always issues.

 

If you're considering a PA car check in with Subaru360 here. He redoes them and sales them all the time. I do an well but mine all seem to have a little rust.

 

I'm doing a 96 Blue OBW next. One owner, it'll be getting a 2.2. Probably take 2 weeks and probablky above your price point.

 

I do have a 98 OBW Green 187k for sale under 3k that I haven't redone the engine but I think someone from WV is coming for it tomorrow.

 

I'd drop Subaru360 a PM. See what he has that he's working on. Atleast you know the major maintenance and tuneup stuff would be done and possibly still be in your price range. He's near Philly/Jersey.

Edited March 2, 200917 yr by davebugs
typing ability

all 10 year old cars in rust belt will have rust if they were always in that area. salt will rust a car no matter what.

 

I would be more concerned with the next needed maintenance (T belt)

check for the torque bind to rear wheels and check for any major leaks of oil.

 

2.2 is the engine of choice. does it knock or rattle would be worth looking at.

 

check the CV axle boot on the fronts. they are maybe the age of failure of rubber boots, another expense to thing about

 

what is the title status. if its a clean title the price would be ok. if its salvage, forget it and move on.

 

bh