Unhappy owner

DODGENUT1 22 years ago

Well, just got finished talking to SOA re piston slap in my 99 Outback. At first the rep. agreed that two pistons should be replaced ( 2 & 4) Then they said that there are no corrective pistons for my Phase I engine and refuse to replace the block even though other people have had that done. Their answer to me is basically "live with it" The SOA rep said his 04 makes the same noise. But his goes away, mine doesn't. So it would seem that anyone considering a Subaru should be cautious. Never again for me!! Sorry for venting

1935 Dodge 1/2 ton pickup
1951 Studebaker Commander Starlight Coupe
1970 VW Karmann Ghia Coupe
1999 Subaru Outback wagon
2001 Mazda Tribute SUV

Vote

Mike Diggler 22 years ago

What is piston slap? My subie sounds like a a kid stuck a baseball card in his bike spokes when the car is first started in the morning (cold morning or not) or sitting for over 4-5 hours. It goes away after about 10 minutes of driving? Is this the same problem?

Just curious.

Vote

Guest 22 years ago

Flush your engine (may be a few times in the row).
Use "Mobil CleanDrive Semi-Syntetic" for one-two oil change.
After that use full syntetic oil (5W30).

It help in my case. With every step you will hear "knocking sound" lower and lower. Now I have a little, but it's nothing comparing to what I had before.

Vote

ed 22 years ago

5w30 is too thin if you want to quiet the piston slap, consider at least 10-30 until spring time, then 20-50 for summer use. Oil additives (Lucas, STP) help too, but the problem does not go away. Doesn't sound like you had piston slap. This does not go away with a few oil changes, piston slap means the clearance between piston/cylinder is too much, only cure is replacement.

Ed B.

Vote

Jim Stewart 22 years ago

I'm glad to hear someone agrees with me on this.

The lifters on my '99 Legacy OB would chatter like crazy for the first few miles with 5w30. Much better with 10w30.

Don't know anything about piston slap as I've never had a problem with it.

Vote

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required