2000 Subaru Outback Wagon review from North America
"Great car with the exception of the 2.5-litre engine"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Blown Head Gaskets; once at 102,000 kilometers and both leaking now at 268,000 kilometers. First repair was warranty, still discussing with my dealer (and Subaru Canada) this time.
Faulty Knock sensor (check engine light) gone twice. First time about 3 years ago, now again in December, 2006.
Exhaust heat shields rattling when accelerating. Continually having them fixed by dealer at least a few times a year.
Strong smell of raw gasoline in winter time when car first starts up. Under some extreme conditions, smell will last for days. Dealer has identified the problem as leaking fuel lines that they re-tighten periodically.
Heated smell in car (like coolant or burning rubber) in hot summer months. Cause has never been pinpointed.
Oil sensor switch leaking now and just replaced at 268,000 kilometers.
General comments?
In spite of the mechanical issues I had (and continue to have), this car offers a nice quiet and solid ride.
Well appointed options and interior have made long road trips very comfortable. No interior rattles, etc.
Even though it only is powered by a 2.5-liter engine, it still offers decent off the line acceleration and highway passing power.
Was broad-sided by a guy running a red light at 65 KPH (roughly 40 mph) and walked away without a scratch. Very safe car to drive.
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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? | No |
| Model year | 2000 |
| Year of manufacture | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.5 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 6 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 9 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 2000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 268000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Dodge Caravan |
| Date of Entry | 3rd February, 2007 |