Did you recently take on (or consider) a loan of 84 months or longer on a car purchase?
A reporter would like to speak with you about your experience; please reach out to PR@Edmunds.com by 7/22 for details.
Options

Subaru Impreza WRX Wagon

1…103104106108109…115

Comments

  • volkovvolkov Member Posts: 1,306
    No idea, sorry. I do expect that they just tightened it. Mine would stop rattling when I pushed on the mounts.
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    I added one on the driver's side of my Forester. Then I swapped it with the one on the passenger side because that one was more flush.

    Any how, it's just a simple bolt holding it in, 10 or 12mm metric IIRC. If it's already tight, try a washer as a spacer. You could even put a lock washer.

    Keep it mind it is metric, not english, both threading and size.

    Good luck.

    -juice
  • bkaiser1bkaiser1 Member Posts: 464
    My last fillup in my 04 wagon recorded nearly 29mpg (325 miles/11.3 gallons), which is far and away better than my previous high of 27. I've never been able to get much change in my mileage over the past 21k miles, with it consistently getting 24-25 in mostly highway driving conditions.

    I travel roughly the same route on I80 to and from my office in Reno and I track my mileage at every fillup. Part of the difference this time was obviously my lower speed -- I set the cruise around 73mph, rather than my usual 80mph. Incidentlly, my mileage is ALWAYS better on Nevada's gas than CA, where I live, so I had filled up in Reno before heading home.

    I know this car isn't setup to be a fuel miser, but it's really nice to be able to get great mileage out of a car when you're not pushing it. Just another reason I love this car!

    I'm picking up a set of gold STi wheels next week for my car (to replace the stockers) -- we'll see what happens to the mileage after that.

    Brian
  • twrxtwrx Member Posts: 647
    I have gotten 30 on my '03 sedan. High altitude is the key. My 30 mpg tanks were in Colorado and Utah this summer. Best I have done back in Indiana (elevation 400 ft) is 27.7 on this car. But hey even that is above EPA spec.

    twrx
  • jwilson1jwilson1 Member Posts: 956
    I'm just beginning a search with the idea of buying a used WRX wagon. Good enough: but lots of my reading complains about fairly expensive reliability issues, especially with the clutch (shudder) and transmission (broken gears).

    My questions:

    Obviously these folk are telling about real issues. But are the issues widespread?

    I was told the '04 has a new transmission -- haven't been able to confirm that. True? Is it better?

    Is the '04 more (mechanically) desirable than the 02-03? Some have said the seats are better -- opinions?

    I'd like not to spend more than $20k (taxes included) -- is it reasonable to expect to get a good one for my money?

    Any other areas of the car, or issues, I should be aware of?

    Thanks for your time! JW
  • locke2clocke2c Member Posts: 5,038
    let's see:

    '04 new transmission: false. '03+ did get a clutch force restrictor though, basically a spring loaded valve inside the clutch cylinder that prevents the clutch from being dropped. this adds longevity at not cost to normal usage --normal people have no need to do a 4-wheel burnout.

    '04 mechanically is otherwise unchanged. '04 seats are wider, if you're wider that's good. if you're like me, 6'0" 160lb that's not good.

    clutch shudder-- it happens. subaru uses a pretty soft pressure plate (clutch cover) to limit shock to the drivetrain in the hands of the merciless or clueless, and even when driven properly this can cause clutch shudder for the first few moments of driving in cold weather.

    $20k including tax-- I wouldn't bother with a new '04, but you can easily do this on a used 02-03. get low miles, unmodified, and have a thorough inspection done. run like hell from a car with a boost controller or aftermarket clutch. the reason I say don't bother with a leftover '04 is that you won't likely beat invoice on an '05 by much, and you can get that deal by joining IMBA for 6 months.

    ~Colin
  • bkaiser1bkaiser1 Member Posts: 464
    I've got an 04 wagon with about 22k miles on it now and it's been absolutely reliable -- the only visit back to the dealer since I bought it was for a recalled cruise control cable.

    The transmission and clutch are fine in normal use -- I've never experienced any serious issues. I will say that it's not the smoothest transmission around and can feel balky and hesitant at times, but it's a normal trait with all WRX transmissions. The 04 transmission is exactly the same as previous models...only the force limiting valve that Colin mentioned has changed.

    I personally HATED the 04 seats and could never find a comfortable position in them...after about 12k miles of trying, I bought a set of 2003 WRX seats and have been happy since. The 02/03 seats are far superior in my opinion, but others will surely have their own tastes.

    There were some very minor suspension changes made in 04 (different struts) but I could not really tell the difference in back to back test drives.

    There are a ton of used WRX's out there, just look for one that appears to have been cared for (and not modified) -- preferably for sale by the original owner and not a dealer. Subarus are very durable and you should be able to find a good used one that will last forever. Keep in mind, though, that new 05's are being advertised in many places for under $22k, some closer to $20k. And that's brand new....I would keep that in mind when you are pricing used ones.

    Brian
  • jwilson1jwilson1 Member Posts: 956
    thanks for the information -- saved me a ton of time if, as you assume, the cryers were folk with heavy feet and risky mods.

    Colin, "IMBA" = ????

    Thanks again, JW
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    I've seen left over 04s dirt cheap, worth a look IMO. Try fitzmall.com and Van Bortel (anyone have the URL handy?).

    They don't depreciate much, so a used one won't be a lot cheaper.

    -juice
  • locke2clocke2c Member Posts: 5,038
    http://www.imba.com

    join up and in six months you get invoice pricing with no haggling from any Subaru dealer. I also happen to ride a mountainbike. :)

    ~c
  • km24km24 Member Posts: 36
    HI
    WHERE AND FROM WHO HAVE YOU SEEN 05 WRX FOR BELOW 22K AND SOMETIMES CLOSER TO 20K? I WOULD BE VERY INTERESTED TO KNOW.
    THANK YOU
    KHYLE
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    Check out fitzmall.com, see if they have left over 2004s.

    I think Van Bortel Subaru also has good no-haggle pricing but I don't have the URL handy.

    -juice
  • jwilson1jwilson1 Member Posts: 956
    Juice -- Van Bortel isn't listing prices as of now and I didn't push it, but fitzmall has a single 04 wagon (red) left for $19660 .... real good. The best on an 05 was $22.9k.

    JW
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    He did say '05, but I would not resist that kind of bargain and jump on that '04 before it sells.

    -juice
  • bkaiser1bkaiser1 Member Posts: 464
    When I bought my 04 wagon last July, I had intended to swap out the OEM wheels/tires immediately...well, other priorities delayed that until this past weekend. To me, the 16x6.5" wheels just never looked right on the car, seeming to be set too far inboard and look a bit small from some angles.

    I put an OEM set of STi wheels and tires on this weekend and what a difference! It looks great and the handling feels a bit sharper, with some additional ride harshness and noise. The Bridgestone RE070's are summer only (a first for me), so I'll be searching for some all-seasons by year-end to make it over the Sierras, but for now I'll enjoy them.

    At minimum, I think the WRX should have come from the factory with 7" wide wheels, even if they spec'd 16" diameter. I actually really liked the design of the OEM wheel, and LOVE it on other Subies, just not on the Imprezas.

    Brian
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    You gonna put the all-seasons on the old rims? Why not get snows?

    -juice
  • jwilson1jwilson1 Member Posts: 956
    REactions, please? TIA.

    '02, silver, very good condition (except some cloudiness on left rear door and quarter panel, will buff out I think), w/23400 miles and full warranty until next June 24.

    It has new tires (these are H rated M+S but did well on the test drive). The car is entirely stock, all maintenance records were in the glove compartment and up-to-date. Runs very smooth; same with clutch and MT5.

    Dealer took it on trade, asking $18295. He said he'll go to $17400 when I showed I was ready.

    Your reactions to the car, and to the deal, will be appreciated.

    Question, in addition: what tools come with the car? I saw the jack but am curious about the cutout, tool-shaped spaces beneath the 3 rear deck hatches -- should anything be there?

    Thanks, JW
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    Fitzmall.com had a new 2004 for $19.6k last I heard, that price is too close to the price on left over 04s.

    Unless you prefer the bug eyes and more narrow seats, at least.

    -juice
  • locke2clocke2c Member Posts: 5,038
    JW, I think that's a fairly average deal for an '02 although the low mileage is definitely a plus.

    I would exhaust all options on a leftover '04 first, though. AJ does have a point.

    ~c
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    A friend here at work is selling an '02 wagon (blue, 5 speed) for around $15k with a 2nd set of rims, if interested let me know and I'll put you 2 in touch.

    -juice
  • jwilson1jwilson1 Member Posts: 956
    I agree with your perceptions and would like to pull some more out of it. I can always walk ....

    I was the one who posted the $19.6, juice ... a great price but more than I'm ready for.

    Any reaction on the tools: what is there beyond a jack? what goes beneath the rear floor hatches?

    JW
  • jwilson1jwilson1 Member Posts: 956
    Juice, what's the mileage on your friend's blue wagon approx? Where are you?

    JW
  • hypovhypov Member Posts: 3,068
    The scissor jack you'd mentioned, the thingie that cranks the jack, breaker bar for lugnuts, flat/philip head combo screwdriver, and torx screwdriver for crossbar.

    -Dave

    Oh, and gorgles... [edit] I mean goggles :)
  • jwilson1jwilson1 Member Posts: 956
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    I'll find out for you. He changed jobs so his old e-mail is no longer valid.

    We're both in DC.

    -juice
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    45k, Mobil 1, it's been pampered though.

    Your e-mail is private, so e-mail me, ateixeira at ifc dot org, and I'll put you two in touch.

    -juice
  • jwilson1jwilson1 Member Posts: 956
    The extra 21k+ miles and year left on full warranty is worth a thousand to me ... so I'm going to try for 16 and see what I can get. If he isn't willing to satisfy me, I'll email you (but don't want to abuse your email otherwise). Appreciate the trust, juice!

    JW
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    Kewl. Now you have leverage with the dealer. Push for $16k, more than that and I'd really just stretch and buy new. Get a 5 year loan instead of 3 and the extra two years you're covered under warranty.

    -juice
  • p0926p0926 Member Posts: 4,423
    How ironic that someone who works at the World Bank is advocating a 5-year car loan ;-)

    -Frank
  • locke2clocke2c Member Posts: 5,038
    well heck in that case, make sure to drive whatever WRX you end up with VERY enthusiastically. enjoy the vehicle to the fullest! ...and consume a lot of gas. ;)

    ~c
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    What price, happiness?

    LOL

    -juice
  • andmoonandmoon Member Posts: 320
    Got a stone hit on my windshield this morning. Anyone replaced theirs? How much am I looking at?
    Thanks,
    Don
  • bluesubiebluesubie Member Posts: 3,497
    $350 seems to ring a bell, but I can verify tonight.

    -Dennis
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    Does your insurance cover it? In the state of MD it's covered by your Comprehensive, and your rates will not go up because it's not the fault of the driver.

    -juice
  • bluesubiebluesubie Member Posts: 3,497
    So that would be a no. :-(

    -Dennis
  • andmoonandmoon Member Posts: 320
    I have a 500 deductible. I called some places and it looks like 350. They come out to the car.
    I don't have a crack. I have the tip of a volcano. I may give thoses repair kits a try.

    Thanks,
    Don
  • paisanpaisan Member Posts: 21,181
    NY State also has zero deductible glass coverage.

    -mike
  • bkaiser1bkaiser1 Member Posts: 464
    My windshield got hit about 8 months ago and put a bulls eye near the gauges...then, a few days later, another rock hit me and produced a crack the goes half way across the windshield. Still, I haven't fixed it and I really need to find a good shop here to have it done. I'm wary of the mobile places, having read that a windshield really needs to cure after being set and should not be driven. Any truth to this?

    Also, I'm not turning it into my insurance...the last thing I need is to give them a reason to up my rates again. I've never filed a claim on any of my cars, and yet the WRX's rates have increased 2 times since I bought the car last year, from $1000/yr to $1400/yr.

    Brian
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    In fairness they're getting stolen a lot. Probably more than forecast originally.

    -juice
  • jwilson1jwilson1 Member Posts: 956
    Thanks to all in my short search for an 02 wagon, especially for the prompt, clear answers and guidance (espcially juice!) to my several questions.

    So the car is mine -- the deal was okay, but I"m not ready to brag about it. I'm most pleased that I got a "good" deal on a car with only 23000 miles. So I'm expecting big things from it.

    I've read the manual and will drive it a bit more now and over the weekend. I want to get used to the brake feel, and high adhesion with a roll of the suspension, and the rush of power the engine gives off. Then I'll be taking it to the autoX next weekend(Shhh. Don't tell....)

    If any of you are interested, once I've driven it hard just for fun I'll post a comparo with my '93 911 track/street car.

    Thanks again to all. JW
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    Congrats.

    Man, that is barely broken in. Sweet deal, you let the original owner take a big hit and you sweep in and get a bargain.

    I bought a used Miata for 1/3rd the original price, and already I've put more miles on it than the original owner did. I could sell it and still recover about 80% of what I paid, too.

    -juice
  • jwilson1jwilson1 Member Posts: 956
    Yeah, I agree. Over the course of my (becoming long) life, I figure I've driven over a million miles and have owned two "new" cars. The question always is whether the car has been maintained properly and driven with a little respect -- I'll let you know in another 50000 miles! lol.

    JW
  • nixomosenixomose Member Posts: 95
    So I think I'm ready to sell my wrx '02 wagon. 25K or so. I looked at kbb, they say I can get about $16-$17 for it. Ouch. I paid $22 2.5 years ago. I don't sell cars I buy new for just that reason, but I just bought a BMW bike, and now I'm itching for an 325xi.
    Is that a reasonable price, can I ask what jwilson paid? It sounds like the same car.
  • paisanpaisan Member Posts: 21,181
    16K is pretty agressive a price. My guess is you'll get something like 15-16k if it's immaculite condition and you find a buyer on the street for it. Used car prices are quite depressed these days with rebates on new cars why buy a higher priced used one?

    -mike
  • designmandesignman Member Posts: 2,129
    Of course I would like to hear your review! WRX is a fun little buzz bomber aye? Handles great. I would have bought one if the automatic transmission was better—my wife needs it. That was the deal breaker so I opted for the additional room of the Outback. Good luck, can't wait to hear about it.
  • paisanpaisan Member Posts: 21,181
    what's wrong with the AT? They are one of the most reliable out there. Heck they can hold 300hp easily compared to the MTs that considered "glass"

    -mike
  • designmandesignman Member Posts: 2,129
    I drove a 2002 and my tester couldn't get off the line, real sluggish. Also, up and downshifts didn't seem to match the proper RPM. I'm looking to replace my 02 Outback so I will be giving the WRX another shot. If the current AT is anything like the new LGT and OBXT I'll buy it in a fingersnap. I don't know though… have been out of the WRX loop. Is it a new tranny or the same one? I absolutely love the handling—WRX is a real performance car— so if the AT does the trick I'll save a lot of money if I can rule out the Outback XT and X3 which are great performing utility vehicles but are compromised as such.

    The real dream is to get me love to drive manual, then that opens up a whole 'nother world. Tried, it's hopeless.

    ;-)
  • paisanpaisan Member Posts: 21,181
    Same trans has been in almost all the subies for years. The 5EAT is different in the legacy GT but as far as off the line, probably the 2.0 turbo is what you are feeling, not the trans...

    -mike
  • locke2clocke2c Member Posts: 5,038
    no, he's absolutely right. the 4EAT might be tough as nails, but the torque converter has a very low stall RPM (as all production automatics tend to have) and the WRX's 2.0L makes no boost until 3k.

    this makes the vehicle pretty damn slow off the line because it takes off at like 1200 rpm max even with a little nudge on the brake.
    ___

    nixomose, what kind of BMW bike? my dad keeps lusting after a 1200GS, can't say I understand the fascination honestly. I just sold my M3 though and I highly recommend you reconsider the 325xi idea. overpriced, underpowered, overweight. if you must defect to a 3er, get a RWD one and dedicated winter tires. that would be more than sufficient on a newer model with stability management and traction control. with my '95 M3, I bought a $2000 pair of snow tires that happened to have a '93 Taurus SHO attached to them. :)

    ~Colin
  • designmandesignman Member Posts: 2,129
    Paisan, are you saying that the current WRX transmission is the same as the 02 Outback? If so then the 2.0 has severely deficient low-end torque. Anyone know where you can find the torque curves for Subaru engines?

    Funny, I drove an Outback Sport with stick and did not notice this, but that was a while ago. Will drive the WRX with manual and get a beat on low-end torque. Would still like to see the torque curves though. They usually tell most of the story. Wish every manufacturer would publish them in their brochures as a matter of routine.
This discussion has been closed.

Helpful Tools

Most popular vehicles