Two weeks ago I bought a 97 Impreza L Sedan with 73,000 miles for $2,700. It was an old lady's car - never had been serviced except for regular oil changes. I dont think she ever even had the tires rotated. Anyhow, she died, and her family sold me the car. Creepy right! None of this really matters though...
When I hit about 40 mph, the whining noise starts. Aroung 55, it is very loud. but around 60, it disappears. I took it into my mechanic (a Subaru specialty shop) and he said it was the rear differential, and that he could fine me a used one and put it in for a grand total of $400-$500. Is this a good price? Is this a repair that Les Schwab or someplace else could do for cheaper? My mechanic said it wasnt dangerous at this point, and that I could drive it as long as I could stand the noise. I CANT STAND IT!!! ITS DRIVING ME NUTS!!!
What is a good price to have this repaired? I have read in this newsgroup that this is a common problem. If I have this done, and the noise comes back in a couple months, will most shops have a warranty on the new differential? Or am I going to have to spend this money over and over? Arg! This is a super little car, but I am at my wits end!