1989 Subaru GL 2WD Wagon review from North America
"Relatively roomy, reliable, quick econo-transportation"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Hole in the radiator, caused by a stick.
Warped cylinder/head interface, caused by the hole in the radiator (drove home without coolant).
Timing belt breaks (exact, predictable 60k intervals, always when least convenient).
Seats loose adjustment settings weekly (detente teeth break off).
Alternator goes up intermittently, takes battery with it (similar to timing belt, but unpredictable - never at a good time).
Air conditioning pump clutch goes up occasionally (also, when you need the car most).
Half-shafts wear out.
Transmission input bearing & main bearings both worn & cause plenty of noise.
Clutches last about 100k miles.
General comments?
This car has surprising power - drop down a gear, floor it, blow by cars with twice the power.
Similarly surprising handling - not great, but good for a supposed econobox, and station wagon.
Carry anything. (Yes, I CAN fit that sheet of plywood/2x4/large piece of furniture in my sub-compact car!)
Recommended reviews
| Despite a few flaws, it's a very nice, economical little car |
|
| Rock solid, economical, utilitarian mountain car! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1989 |
| First year of ownership | 1989 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8L Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 208000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 15th April, 2001 |