Faults:

Had to replace the parking brakes.

The car has rusted doors and side panels. I knew about the rust issues when I bought this car. Usually most Subarus have rust issues since they are kept in colder climates places (in my case the car was kept outdoor for 14 years in Syracuse, NY).

The car had a rebuilt auto transmission at 160K miles.

The automatic antenna broke, replaced with a wire hanger LOL.

General Comments:

The car is very comfortable. Very stable and easy drive during the winter weather.

I researched for while before buying this car. I bought this car for 600 dollars from a doctor who took very good care of the car. He had serviced the car (timing belt, oil, tires and etc..) as specified by the manual.

I bought this car with 229,000 miles (I know it's very high miles), but the 2.2L boxer engine is legendary in its reliability, all the diffs worked and the car had a rebuilt transmission.

The car been a great winter car that I drive everyday. The does take a while to be smooth from a cold-start, but that's usual. ABS in the wheels is scary good in the winter.

Since I have the LS model, the car had tons of electronic things, which all work to this day.

I got the car inspected without any issues. I would buy this car if I had to.

Faults:

Needed an alternator at 202,000 miles.

Replaced timing belt, water pump and all front seals at 210,000 miles.

Replaced clutch and rear main seal at 210,000 miles as well.

Replaced front brake rotors and pads at 215,000 miles.

Since I bought this car, I replaced the knock sensor, repaired the driver seat and I performed an alignment which really helps the car to hug the road.

But these (besides the alternator) are mostly maintenance items just to make sure the car will keep going good for quite some time.

General Comments:

In my opinion, Subaru has the best cruise control of the world; very easy to use and quick in its response.

The former owner of the car had installed KYB shocks, which very much improved the handling of my Suby.

Interior is simple but good.

The seats are firm but comfortable.

I really like the frameless windows.

The AWD is unbeaten in bad weather and tricky road conditions.

The 2.2 is still very powerful, relaxing to drive and very smooth for an H4 engine.

I installed 16" wheels with performance tires, which look good and improve the handling and in all the cars practicality. You can even take it out on the track and scare some sports car drivers.

If the dealer prices are too much for you, you should learn how to do it yourself, because the Subaru is very simple in its design and easy to work on.

Faults:

My 1996 is not firing properly; the two cylinders on the right (driver side) are not firing properly. I had a garage run a diagnostic check and they said that the computer was defective, and there by causing the spark from the ignition coils to be weak. I got another computer and replaced the old one, but the problem is still there.

I don't know what to do as there isn't a dealer on the Island, or a Subaru specialist.

I know what it feels like when the car is running good; you hit the gas and she goes; who cares about how much gas cost. I just want my car to give me that feeling of flying an airplane again.