I've got a '99 Outback Sedan (it was actually called the "SUS" -- Sport Utility Sedan -- for that year only). Has 59,0000 miles. Came back from a 4-hour trip (each way) the other day and smoke was pouring out from under the hood! So I took it to my local mechanics who told me both the front and rear engine seals needed replacing, and that this was a common problem with Subarus.
I've taken very good care of this car (the car was fine in mid-August when it was gone over with a fine-tooth comb).
Well, I really loved the Outbacks -- up until now. If this is really a common problem with Subarus, that does it.
Which sedans are available today that are more or less equivalent to the Outback (high level off the ground...) but that are better made? Any suggestions?
I've taking the car into the Subaru dealer service tomorrow to get the seals replaced (and I'm going to complain loudly in the hopes they may give me a break -- my local mechanic said it should cost somewhere around $2,600 if they were to do it!). Then, since it's 7 years old, and things seem to be starting to head south, I'm going to sell it and buy a new car -- maybe right away, maybe in 6 months.
Has Subaru fixed the engine seal problem in the newer Outbacks? Otherwise, what other cars should I look at?
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!