Faults:

Routine maintenance. I replaced the head gaskets at 231000 miles.

General Comments:

I know all about the head gasket issues with Outbacks.

The head gaskets in my 98 Outback blew at 231000 miles.

I can't really fault the car for that, since most engines don't even last that long!

I've got 261000 miles on Auto the Outback, and he's still going strong.

I spent a grand to have the head gaskets replaced. Other than routine maintenance and the usual parts replacements - power steering pump, alternator, axle shafts etc.

Auto has performed admirably in all kinds of weather. Great car. I don't imagine I'd ever not own a Subaru. I mean, 266000 miles and it still runs flawlessly? C'mon.

Faults:

Blown head gasket at 130,000 miles. Cost $3000 to replace.

Clutch went at about 100,000.

Driver's seat heater died at 120,000.

Now at 144,774 miles the speedometer sensor crapped out.

My old Celica never had a major mechanical issue for 180,000 miles.

General Comments:

Love the AWD, but it should not need $3000 in head gasket repairs at 130,000 miles. Very disappointing.

Faults:

2 calipers jammed.

Check engine light keeps coming on.

ABS system failed.

Heated seats failed.

Rear shocks needed to be replaced, 1 was broken in half when I bought the car.

Heavy white smoke comes from front end often after a drive, still don't know what it is, even the mechanic and dealer haven't found out yet.

I'm probably forgetting stuff.

General Comments:

Works great in our northeastern Canadian winters, but hard on gas and unreliable, just as my Jettas.

Faults:

Bad transmission, warranty replaced at 24k miles (unmatched gears at factory).

It leaked coolant after the dealer did the 60k service, took it back, they said it was low on coolant (they just serviced it - go figure) and needed new head gaskets ($2300).

Great driving car otherwise, but terrible factory loyalty to customers. A $25k car should not go bad after 60K miles. Buyer beware.

General Comments:

The car is fun to drive, good power, but recommend deep pockets to be an owner. Unless you know how to work on them, good luck.

Faults:

Headgasket popped at 114K miles with no overheat and no warpage. We had it repaired and have driven 87k miles since with no problems.

Knock sensor died a few years ago and was repaired.

We've had 3 front main seals in the car and it's leaking slightly again.

The harmonic balancer needed to be replaced last year at about 185K miles.

Recalls for the alternator and brake master cylinder - replaced at no charge.

General Comments:

Overall a very good and reliable car in my opinion. It's had its issues, but only once in more than 200k miles has it needed to be towed.

It has received regular maintenance, always starts, runs smoothly, everything works, and it remains a pleasure to drive especially in poor weather.

My biggest gripes about the car are the seats and the location of the cup-holder; not bad overall.

I fully expect the car to exceed 250K miles with ease.