I'm thinking of buying a 1998 Legacy L with 55K miles. Seems to be in good shape, just got its 60K scheduled maint done by the independent dealer/garage (only does Subaru). They're asking right around the Kelly value.
- Assuming it's been well cared for, am I likely to have low maint cost for the next 50K?
- Generally are Subarus expensive or not when they do need repairs?
- Anyone like or not like theirs?
Thanks ~DS
As much as i love my 98 Sube, UK surveys show Subarus are the most expensive cars to maintain in terms of parts prices and repair times.
Do you have web links etc. for these surveys?
expensive cars to maintain in terms of parts >prices and repair times.>>
IME total costs on schedule 3 & 4 services are quite high, as are parts prices (although others are worse) *but* general running costs outside of book services are mainly fuel, tyres and the occasional oil topup or small part. Overall, cheapest car to own I've had in 30 years.
I have 96 Legacy L 90000 miles and only had tire problems, so I have bought
99 Legacy L 121000 miles to keep it company. Very accessible except spark plugs! Only problems one dead starter motor and one intermittent speedometer. Gil
My '98 has 125K and is generally dependable. Even with the occasional repair: (wheel bearing, timing belt, engine shaft seals, clutch, ect.), you must consider that you are a buying a specialized vehicle. Although the Subaru is a low priced AWD, it costs you a little more for gasoline and repair labor than a front drive car. If I didn't need the all wheel drive I would not own a Subaru unless I got a deal that I couldn't refuse. I'd go for a Toyota or a Honda. My Corolla is nicer/easier/cheaper to drive in normal conditions..
If you can do your own work you have an advantage with the Suby. They are not complex if you have basic tools, mechanical experience and time. You need to see if the timing belt has been changed yet as it is soon due. I think my dealer charged me $250 for the job, complete. I did the third one for the price of a belt, ($65). I bought the belt idler kit for $130, that I didn't really need, and installed it but my original idlers were fine. There are other parts associated with a timing belt change, but are usually OK at 55K-which is low mileage. Charlie
I've got a '95 (same body, slightly smaller engine) with 171,000 miles.
Awesome car.
-Matt
I agree completely with you Charlie. My '98 Outback has 195,000K and it has been expensive! I bought it with 90,000k (new timing belt). Since then I have spent $5500 CDN on a clutch & slave, transmission case?, viscous coupler and another timing belt and water pump(recommended with belt). This in addition to regular maintenance. The body is standing up well so far but the car is heavy, gutless and noisy. I bought it because we have a steep driveway at the cottage and a little snow causes trouble for all but AWD cars. The Subaru handles the snow very well. I have 2 other cars, both Toyotas and would NOT buy another Subaru. Good Luck! Dave
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