1999 Subaru Outback review from North America
"C/C+"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Timing chain cover gasket went south at ~60,000 miles, not the end of the world. Replaced the timing chain, too, since they had it all apart. It's leaking again for the last 20,000 miles, not so bad that it's worth another $500.
Left front wheel bearing went out at ~90,000 miles, this was the beginning of the end. $250 at a local shop.
Broken left front axle left me on the side of the road at 8 pm on a Sunday night, $250 at a local shop, but lost a day.
Lost the left front wheel bearing again two weeks ago, in upstate NY in the middle of nowhere, lost three days of a five day vacation. $450 at a Midas shop.
I don't think it's asking too much for a manufacturer to make things like wheel bearings reliable.
General comments?
In snow, it appears to me to be the best system out there. I've motored straight up a few hills past 4WD pickups and SUVs on the side of the road, it's never let me down.
Has a strong feel on wet roads, too.
Ergonomics are poor. The power window buttons are arranged exactly opposite to how the human hand closest to them is arranged. The door lock/unlock button is out of sight. Cup holders in front of the radio and HVAC buttons are absurd.
Recommended reviews
| Comfortable, cushy, holds the road, but both engine and tranny failed at 95k so unsatisfied. |
|
| Very reliable and great in winter weather |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model year | 1999 |
| Year of manufacture | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.5L DOHC Automatic |
| Performance marks | 6 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 5 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 5 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 150000 miles |
| Previous car | Volkswagen Jetta |
| Date of Entry | 16th March, 2006 |