Hey all, new to group. I'm hoping someone out there can answer a question I have regarding the 1997 Outback 2.5L.
Here's the deal: 70K, no rust, decent shape, the price is right. We are replacing our 96 Legacy (175K- not too too bad, I think) but I have heard from several friends and mechanics( the "work at a garage and fix 'em at home" type) that the 2.5L is a potentially expensive engine. My wife works at a dealership and I've spoken to the service manager and HE says that the engine is of the "timing belt snaps and you're screwed" variety. I know, replace the belt and you're fine but... I also have heard that the twin cam design is not very durable in that it seems to develop expensive fix problems around 90-100K.
Yeah, it's all rumor. I've Googled around but haven't really found the answer I'm looking for, perhaps I just really stink at framing the right Google query - I don't know. Personally, I like the car. Our Legacy is perfect for us out here in the sticks, I think it's replaced the Saab as the "State Car of Vermont" and rightly so.
So let's assume the Outback has had fairly regular maintenance, needs brakes and stuff but otherwise has been maintained pretty well as in when things broke they got fixed and the oil was changed on time. Hasn't been wrecked. Motor sounds okay, no leaks, no puffs, starts right up... the whole shebang.
But that motor and the rumors of it being not very durable have got me nervous, especially at 70K and the crucial miles still ahead. I really don't want a coffee grinder under the hood at 90K, you know?
My thanks in advance for any insight you folks mighty be able to pass along.
BTW, the 96 Legacy has finally succumbed to the nasty dirt roads and just needs replacin'. It's kind of funny the way she has gone - it just "Herbie'd Up" and sat in the driveway smoking and steaming away one rainy afternoon. The service department did a gunk/leak check and came back with the sorry news that it didn't look good and we should pay our respects and not a mechanic. Great little car even if it was woefully underpowered climbing those hills on I-89 on the way to MA. Oh well. It was a demon in the snow....