2000 Subaru Outback review from North America

Very pleased with 2000 Outback until valve guide problem occured at 117,000 km ( (73,000 miles) - major $$$ repair job completed after about four return trips to the Dealer because of recurring 'Check Engine' warning light.

Master Brake Cylinder 138,000 km (86,000 miles).

And now at 140,000 km (87,500 miles) we have a dreaded intermittent electrical problem with the ignition. Battery is killed dead (clock resets to 1:00) in approx 5 minutes if engine is shut off but key set in 'accessory' position (continues to provide electrical power to the radio etc.). Dealer has checked and states that battery OK and unable to pinpoint and fix problem. My next step is to take my Outback to an independent Auto Electric shop and see if they can identify and fix the problem. If no solution to this problem is found our 2000 Outback is going to be traded in ASAP (before it screws up the entire electrical system or causes a fire) probably on a Honda or Toyota.

I also have a 2005 Forester with only 26,000 km (16,000 miles) that I will now be watching like a hawk!

Our 2000 Outback handles well on the highway, seats are comfortable on long highway trips. Gas consumption is reasonable.

I thought that I had purchased an auto that I would drive for 350,000 km (225,000 miles) but concern regarding reliability, as outlined above, is the issue!