Main question:
I'm looking at buying a 2001 Outback 5-speed with 125,000 miles and power everything, after a long line of Fords where "power everything" means "lots of electrical problems"
I've heard lots about the almost mystical reliability of Subarus -- does that extend to the wiring harnesses as well? Can I expect trouble-free operation with power seats, mirrors, windows, etc. at high mileage?
Other questions:
Can I tell how much clutch pad is left without having a mechanic look at it?
I've looked at a number of older legacies and outbacks which all have rust under the hood -- especially on the radiator bracket, the power steering pump, some metal hoses (A/C lines?) on the right and some kind of bracket on the left. (This is in Pittsburgh, we get a lot of salt.) Is a more-rusty under-hood car going to be having more trouble with its radiator and engine accessories than a less-rusty under-hood car, or is this mostly a surface issue that doesn't matter?
What are the problem areas I should be looking for with 95 - 2001 Outbacks and Legacies?
Thanks muchly, ~Adam Aulick