1985 Subaru GL review from North America
"Reliable, easy-to-maintain putt-putt-I highly recommend it!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The hydraulics that hold the hatch open have slowly died since I got it. They are now pretty much useless.
Alternator died and was replaced at 75,000.
Theft and hot-wiring of the vehicle at around 100,000 resulted in some minor electrical problems (brake light always on, no hazard lights).
At 105,000 the water pump needed to be replaced.
In that same week, a "mystery" fuel filter was clogged and had to be replaced... after we'd already replaced the other obvious fuel filter and the fuel pump.
General comments?
Most of these issues are due to the fact she's an old, well-loved car. All of these problems were easily fixed between my step-dad and father-in-law. I've never taken it to the shop. This car is EASY to work on, and parts aren't too expensive.
My little GL won't win any races, but she's got enough get-up-and-go to get me where I need to be. She's got more oomph than one would imagine looking at her.
I think Subaru's had building quality products figured out for a while (20 years at least!). As a matter of fact, hubby is looking to replace his car and the Subaru lot is the first place we'll look!
Recommended Reviews:
  | Car is great and reliable |
| The only thing reliable about this car is that the next month there will be something else to fix |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 1985 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 Manual |
| Performance marks | 6/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 6/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 70000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 106000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 8th January, 2005 |