2000 Subaru Outback review from North America
"Decent car, expensive to keep running"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Head gasket leaking coolant at 30,000 miles. It was replaced and is leaking again at 62,000 miles (out of powertrain warranty).
It is on its third set of brake rotors due to warping.
The radiator has been leaking coolant at the core-to-top-tank junction for the last year.
It's leaking oil -somewhere- on the lower end of the engine. Getting drips on the garage floor.
Pulls to the right with the factory Firestone summer tires. It's fine with the winter Michelin Alpins mounted.
Terrible clutch clatter when cold. Clears after a few "hard" takeoffs. Dealer says it's "normal".
Multiple exhaust rattles from the heat shields and muffler.
About 22 MPG (US) overall. Not great for a 4-cyl with a manual trans.
Thin paint -- the nose is full of chips from road debris.
General comments?
Superb in the snow with winter tires mounted (manual trans. is 50/50 front/rear torque bias).
I find it comfortable for long distance drives.
Love the heated seats...
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  | The 2000 Subaru Outback is not what I hoped for |
| Great car to drive if you're rich enough to keep a mechanic on retainer! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.5L four Manual |
| Performance marks | 6/10 |
| Reliability marks | 3/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 12 miles |
| Most recent distance | 64500 miles |
| Previous car | Subaru Legacy |
| Date of Entry | 16th December, 2003 |