1992 Subaru Liberty GX review from Australia and New Zealand

Airbag suspension went at around 120000km. Had replaced with lift kit and springs and struts.

Radiator cracked at approx 190000km. Driver at the time did notice steam coming from bonnet and warped one of the heads. Mechanic machined head and at the same time replaced timing belt.

Aircon needed regassing and retrofitting to new standard at approx 200000km. Works great now.

Power steering tank/belt assembly began leaking at approx 200000km. Cheaply fixed.

Clutch is getting pretty sad - revs need to be matched and sometimes needs a double-clutch to change smoothly under power. (This is still the original clutch however.) Quoted 650 to replace with new unit.

Second gear is a little sad, but doesn't crunch all that noticeably.

Lo range lamp in dash has blown a few times.

Power mirror controls died once.

Cigarette lighter failed. Cheaply fixed.

Rear speakers fell to pieces.

Rear wiper motor failed.

My father has owned this car it's entire 200000km life. Given its age, it is running absolutely superbly. I have just purchased it from him as I want to use it offroad.

Performance is nice and adequate, but it is not a rocket.

Offroad performance is surprisingly good, I have taken this car through all the deep sand which is normally restricted to large 4WD's - on the standard little 14" road tyres (let down to 18psi) for that matter. It was brilliant.

All the above problems were fixed by the local subaru specialist, and consequently I am quite confident I can get another 200000km out of this vehicle without major hassles.

Parts are on the expensive side, but this is offset by cheaper 4cyl rego costs in queensland, as well as impressive reliablity.