Transmission has gone bad at 90000 miles (shift from Reverse to Drive hesitates, then leaps into gear, or occasionally does not engage at all). No repairable problem can be found. This is MAJOR.
Check Engine light has come on in past four months. O2 sensor was bad and replaced, now vent control solenoid valve is bad.
Right front axle and PCV boot went bad and required replacement.
Several plastic body parts have come off or loose (interior and exterior).
Water leaks in closed windows when car is washed.
Water leaks in top of windshield in rain in one place.
This car was a real workhorse for me up until the 90K mileage mark. I got the recommended tune-ups and maintenance, but had to make very few repairs up until recently. Since hitting 90K miles, a series of problems have occurred, resulting in multiple trips to the dealer and the car turning into a "money pit". Now, they tell me that I am going to need a new transmission to the tune of $4000. Instead, I am going to buy a new car (Honda or Toyota). I am not putting any more money into this car after putting $1700 into it in the last four months.
Had same transmission experience with a 1999 Forester. Dealership wanted $4000 for a new trans - had it rebuilt for $2200. Same issue - hesitated going into Drive from Rev, finally just ripped the drum apart. Told that SUBARU INTRODUCED A NEW DESIGN FOR AUTO TRANS IN 1999 - these problems persisted for several years. Guy who rebuilt the trans said he's done 20 Sub rebuilds in the last 1 1/2 years. Will drive this one into the ground then this third Subaru will be my last. I'll get a Honda CR-V.
We are having the same problems. We just put about $8k into fixing almost everything on the car just to have the shifter break on the way to work this morning. Buyer beware.
Note: A Comments RSS Feed is available. New comments appear in the Members Area before the main site