1997 Subaru Outback review from North America

Engine blew at 35,000 miles just under the standard warranty. Dealer replaced the lower block. That problem seemed to be fixed. No cost except aggravation.

Now there is oil all over the engine and the dealer wants about $2,000 to fix. He recommended replacing the timing belt, water pump, valve cover gaskets, etc while they were in there for about $3,000.

Security system disabled the car and had to be towed into the dealer, where they fixed the problem in about an hour. When I went to start the car, it had the same problem. The service manager apologized and fixed it again, while I waited.

Various computer faults, like Air Bag that go away in the spring, summer and fall, but lights every winter. Dealer wants $1,100 to fix and replace a sensor. Gas gauge is about 1/4 tank off. Dealer wanted $200 to fix. Lights in dash need replacing, dealer said it was a big job and would be about $300 of labor to change a $3 light bulb.

Towed into the dealer for a shot voltage regulator? Big bucks about 1 week after the 60k major tuneup. Another $450.

Car ran rough and felt like it was running on two cylinders. Check engine light came on, had it towed to the dealer. Was a spark plug wire. Paid $250 and only got one wire. Complained and they replaced the whole set at the next major service.

Needed exhaust manifold welded to prevent rattling noises while driving.

Major tune-ups cost about $600, with spark plugs, alignment or something extra would be more than $1,000.

This car was perfect for the first three years. Then the engine blew just under the warranty period and was replaced by the dealer at no cost to me. No loaner car and they had the Outback for over 3 weeks.

Minor electrical and mechanical problems have plagued this car after the three year marker.

The car is comfortable and safe driving on ice and snow. Nice and heavy and feels like you are in control of the road. Brakes are sure and last 60,000 miles. Original clutch. Tires also lasted about 55,000 miles.

I am buying a Toyota and goodbye to Subaru. We have had a total of 4 Subaru cars and two were not up to par with their reputation.