Hello,

 

New to this board and seeking some advice. My husband and I are looking at a 96 outback in very, very good condition. One problem that irks us is the owner has a small problem with the automatic gear shift. A screw driver is placed in a small hole in order for the car to shift into/out of gear. Apparently the dealer/service dept told him to do this instead of replacing/servicing the gear shift; I guess it's costly. He said a drink was spilled and got into the gear shift causing this problem. We're just worried about this being a safe alternative rather than repairing it.

 

Any idea how much it might cost to repair or replace this?

 

Thanks,

Newbie

Probably just needs pulled apart and cleaned, it's not that hard to do, just need to find someone willing to do it for you. if it needs replaced, these things NEVER fail so a used unit would be fine and cost next to nothing (since there's zero demand for them). someone on here with a parts car would even sell you one. post in the parts wanted forum. i don't have any that would fit your vehicle at the moment.

Thanks for the advice!

i think someone mentioned in your other thread about the relay going bad. they are probably right.

 

when you put the key in and press the button on the shifter you should hear clicking. if you don't that relay is probably bad. i have a 96 legacy as well and the clicking comes from somewhere behind the stereo.

 

i would guess it's either accessed behind the stereo or it might be accessible from the drivers footwell area, above the gas pedal so to speak.

 

if you can find the relay you can just knock it with something to. while only temporary, it may determine if the relay is the issue.