I am driving my 4th leased OutBack and am giving serious thought to purchasing it this fall when the lease expires. Its the 2002 model with auto and std 4 cyl. engine and has 32000 miles to date. The residual is $13000 and I've had no problems with the car. I just looked at the 2005 with my price being $24,000 making the current car looks real good! I am looking for any comments that you folks might have on this car in terms of the mechanical , structurial, brakes etc. on this car. Consumer Reports and J.D. Powers give it ratings on the average side at best. Any opinons would be appreciated. I realize we can't predict the future but I'm concerned if there are problems with this year car that I haven't encountered.
If you look at JD Powers Durability, Subaru actually moves up after 3 years, and moves up again after 5 years. So they actually improve comapred to the competition with age.
But you know it best. Does it feel tight? Do you think it'll last a long time? If so I'd buy it, even with repairs your total cost of ownership will be lower with a used car. Nice thing is you were the one that used it!
HI. I am a new owner of a 2001 Legacy GT Limited. I am really enjoying my new car but I am very confused about the air control features. My question is regarding the constant flow of air from the vents. On my dash, I have an air conditioner button a recirculating button and a Heater button. I have all the buttons pushed to the off position and the Fan speed control dial turned to Zero, but I still feel a constant flow of outside air coming into the vehicle. Is this normal? I've never owned a Subaru before. any help appreciated. Also , can anyone recommend where I can purchase a shop manual for a 2001 Legacy. I haven't had any success finding one on ebay.
The Forester still seems to have more legroom in the front seat than the Outback, even the 2005. It is still awkward swinging my legs in, getting into the Outback.
Also, the Forester still has better visibility, especially when backing up or looking around to check traffic before switching lanes.
The new Outback does have better styling - nice curves. But even good curves can't compete with superior comfort and visibility. I realize that this is an individual matter but I wonder if anyone else has encountered the same feelings.
I agree completely -- we have an 02 Outback and an 03 Forester. Tons more front passenger room and better all around visibility in the Forester. More headroom too.
I also concur. In my '00 Outback I had to sacrifice a couple of notches forward to accomodate my son's rear facing child seat. Once we moved it into my '04 F-XT, I was able to stretch out more and still fit the seat. Of course, now he's facing forward, so that point really is mute...
Compared to my Outback, I think the F-XT rides smoother and quieter. Front passenger room is also not as cramped (your legs have some room to move).
Also note that I'm comparing the 'old' Outback to the Forester.
I would agree that my 04 leg wagon does not have a ton of front footspace. I am 6 ft and am all legs. That being said, with the seat adjusted all the way back I have found a good driving position. The other gripe is the narrow footwell, which takes some getting used to after driving a full sized american pickup for five years. I think the higher seating in the forrester would be comfortable and more flexible. That being said, I would not trade my "car" for a "small truck" (read, Forrester.) I like living closer to the pavement.
IIRC, for a nominal fee ($30???), you can have access to SOA's technical web site to download .pdf files from the manuals for something like 48 hours. If you have a fast connection and if they have a good index, you could probably get everything you could possibly need for a reasonable investment of time and money. I will try and find the link...
You can only download 20 pdf files per hour with that unlimited 72hr download. So you can't get the whole thing, however you can get most of what you need for that $20.
A Legacy sedan tested by IIHS had "improperly folded airbags," prompting a recall. Then the "corrected" model has issues protecting the front passenger in the side impact test.
The wagon wasn't tested, true. But this isn't what we expected.
I love the 05 Outback I test drove with one exception. The engine (4 cyl. no turbo, I'm cheap) seemed a little underpowered as the vehicle would downshift constantly when I went to accelerate and would rev a lot higher at any speed than my Toyota Corrola (which I love).
Can anyone with long term experience with this engine answer the following questions.
1. Is the engine likely to last 100-150,000 miles acting the way it does (RPM wise) on the highway and accelerating. I tested an automatic by the way?
2. Secondly even though it seems OK would I likely be disappointed with the acceleration in the long run?
We just got a 2001 Outback wagon, base. There were no keyfobs...I've read here on Edmunds and also on cars.com that the base Outback in '01 came standard with the keyless entry...is this true? We'd like to know if we can order the keyfobs.
Also, the new (to us, we had a '97) cupholder in the console is in a nice spot but it seems to not hold a drink well...is there a trick to this?
In general, we're really happy with the ride of it.
I have an 01 outback and yes they come standard with the key fobs. you should be able to get them at any Subie dealer.
05 outback with the H4 probably accels a bit better than my 01 due to less weight. However it won't be a great diff and many people want more zoom. I domn't think manual vs auto tranny will do much for saving gas. Both are rated at 28mpg highway.
You probably won't get better highway MPG with the stick vs the auto, contrary to common perceptions. The axle gearing on the OB stick is higher than in auto, so it runs at a higher RPM at highway cruising speed.
Did you use the Sportshift mode at all? I found it to be at least a partial solution to concerns about acceleration with the EAT and base 4 cyl. I also think that this is a somewhat subjective area and it's difficult for one person to necessarily know what another would regard as "underpowered."
someone else here may have better information than I .. but I thought that the first base wagon that I got 'serious' about negotiations on had NO remote entry, and that after that one sold and I negotiated the sale on the 2001 base wagon that I have ... the one I BOUGHT did have the the remote entry .. but I didn't think it came 'standard' ...
It's a bit confusing...as I said, most sources I've checked say it's standard, but the owner's manual, in the section about the keyless remote, has the note "if equipped", which made us think it wasn't standard.
I'll see what Subaru says. Thanks for the help, to you, jay_124 and rob999.
I drive a 99 Outback Limited 5speed. Anyone out there know what the purpose is for the rectangular plastic 'tunnels' located under the driver and passenger seat? There are two of these under each seat, seem to go down to a box under the carpet, nothing is visable under the car for these. Possibly a cold air return?? I dropped my car key in one of them (long story). I have more keys, but don't know the affect of dropping a key in these things since I do not know what they are for. Any help is appreciated. Sugardog.
Thanks Mathias and Lumbar for your comments. I agree response is subjective and also in the long run probably I would not be happy with what I drove. My main concern was longevity of the engine which you answered. Regards, -Ken
You can't get my engine anymore, dual overhead cam, this engine has more torque at high rpm, so they redesigned it for 2000 with SOVHC for more torque at lower rpm, but I love the acceleration I get with this drivetrain, I personally cannot stand driving a 4 cyl with an automatic, but if I wanted an auto, I would definitely go with the H6, just my opinion. Either engine should outlast the vehicle.
A couple of quick questions - does anyone know where the "chirper" is located on an 03 OBW with factory alarm? Our alarm works - doors lock, it arms, etc. But, sometimes it chirps, sometimes it doesn't. I've got the factory manuals for the Forester - is it the same alarm wiring?
Second question - how soon is it safe to use clay on a new car's clearcoat? Should I wait a few months or so, or can it be done anytime. The car in question was mfg in Apr 04.
Lastly, just got the oil analysis back on the wife's OBW. I change the oil every 3000 miles. All of the wear indicators I was seeing a few months ago at 13.5K (Feb 04) are down to about normal at 19.5K. Interestingly enough , the engine is very light on iron wear.
There is a sequence of button pushes that will turn the chirp on/off. I think it's listed on the back of the remote. It may be that you are unknowingly toggling it on/off.
I clayed my 03 OBW a couple weeks ago. Followed with a coat of Mother's Reflections high tech sealer. It's like glass. I was amazed at the junk the clay bar picked up.
I clayed my 05 LGT wagon the weekend I took delivery. And as rob_m mentions, it's amazing how much junk the clay bar can pick up from a brand new vehicle. I could hear the bar picking up contaminants as I was gliding it over the panels. After a few panels, I could even see dark build up on the clay bar!
Interesting point on the oil analysis. Perhaps the reason why iron checks out so low is that our engines blocks are alumnium?
All Subaru engines have aluminum pistons, blocks and heads, but the wear surfaces (like the cylinder liners) are iron and steel with coatings and special alloys used to reduce friction and wear. Aluminum is great for light weight and heat dissipation, but is rather soft and not wear resistant.
The low iron content may be the result of the oil filter doing it's job and the iron/steel parts were machined very precisely and very little wear was taking place.
I own a brand new Subaru Legacy GT 2004 (Sedan) that has driver's side and passenger side front windows that leak when I take it through the high-powered touchless car wash in our town. Have had it back under warranty and dealer said don't take it through that car wash, as it doesn't leak in other car washes. Does anyone out there have the same problem with any of your Subaru’s?? Please contact me at silverlady56@yahoo.com. Thanks
The window leaks problem may be simple to fix. Sometimes, the rubber gasket is seated incorrectly in the track it mounts into on the body of the car. Try easing the beading by working your way around the door seal gasket, preogressively stretching then releasing about four inches at a time. You sort of grab the gasket with both hands about four inches apart, pull your hands apart a little and then let it spring back into place. If the gasket has not seated evenly, this will straigten things out. Also wokrs for many ait leaks. It is also worth leaving the doors open on a very hot day occassionally so the door seals ease back to original shape.
I have a 98 GT Wagon with 83K and I have added security classic on it. My plan lasts up to 90K or till march 05. I'd like to extend the contract but I was wondering if it's even possible. Thanks in advance.
Also, how would I go about cleaning sunroof drains, as I think they are clogged.
Is anyone troubled by the posts in the outback and the legacy. I went test driving and found that much of my rear view mirror was filled with the posts. I could work around the view with the side mirrors but found these posts somewhat annoying. My old Lexus ES300 has a wide rear window and no obstruction. Will I get used to it? Is evey owner ok with it on the Sub's? Anyone think it is serious enough not to purchase?
Are you talking about the rear pillars around the hatch opening?? I don't notice any problem from that -- the miror is posisitoned so that I see only "glass", and don't notice the pillars on the sides. But then again, i have been driving Outbacks since 2000 and maybe I am accustomed to it. ANyway, it's not a serious problem for me.
Looking through the rearview in a sedan and from in a wagon is different - the portal to your view of the rear is farther back, so the mirror will pick up more... and what wasn't there before [D-pillar] is there. You'll adjust
Is anyone troubled by the posts in the outback and the legacy. I went test driving and found that much of my rear view mirror was filled with the posts. I could work around the view with the side mirrors but found these posts somewhat annoying. My old Lexus ES300 has a wide rear window and no obstruction. Will I get used to it? Is evey owner ok with it on the Sub's? Anyone think it is serious enough not to purchase?
Comments
more pics from that event at: http://teamiac.com/events2002/ax-07-21-02/people-pics/index.htm
-mike
But you know it best. Does it feel tight? Do you think it'll last a long time? If so I'd buy it, even with repairs your total cost of ownership will be lower with a used car. Nice thing is you were the one that used it!
-juice
any help appreciated. Also , can anyone recommend where I can purchase a shop manual for a 2001 Legacy. I haven't had any success finding one on ebay.
Turn recirc on and it should stop.
Shop manuals come in a set, I think there are 6!
-juice
Jim
Also, the Forester still has better visibility, especially when backing up or looking around to check traffic before switching lanes.
The new Outback does have better styling - nice curves. But even good curves can't compete with superior comfort and visibility. I realize that this is an individual matter but I wonder if anyone else has encountered the same feelings.
Craig
Compared to my Outback, I think the F-XT rides smoother and quieter. Front passenger room is also not as cramped (your legs have some room to move).
Also note that I'm comparing the 'old' Outback to the Forester.
-Brian
The Forester is easier to get into for front passengers, because the seat height is perfect, you can sit right in and spin 1/4 turn.
But the Legacy is easier for rear passengers, because the door and footwell are a little wider. But you do have to sit down into it.
-juice
MNSteve
Steve
-mike
A Legacy sedan tested by IIHS had "improperly folded airbags," prompting a recall. Then the "corrected" model has issues protecting the front passenger in the side impact test.
The wagon wasn't tested, true. But this isn't what we expected.
Can anyone with long term experience with this engine answer the following questions.
1. Is the engine likely to last 100-150,000 miles acting the way it does (RPM wise) on the highway and accelerating. I tested an automatic by the way?
2. Secondly even though it seems OK would I likely be disappointed with the acceleration in the long run?
I'd appreciate any comments or suggestions.
Ken
Also, the new (to us, we had a '97) cupholder in the console is in a nice spot but it seems to not hold a drink well...is there a trick to this?
In general, we're really happy with the ride of it.
Thanks in advance!
A suggestion: Get the stick. More fun, 50/50 AWD, less gas, and no gear hunting.
It does not sound like you'll be happy with the car you test drove.
Good luck,
-Mathias
05 outback with the H4 probably accels a bit better than my 01 due to less weight. However it won't be a great diff and many people want more zoom. I domn't think manual vs auto tranny will do much for saving gas. Both are rated at 28mpg highway.
--jay
I'll see what Subaru says. Thanks for the help, to you, jay_124 and rob999.
Craig
Anyone out there know what the purpose is for the
rectangular plastic 'tunnels' located under the driver and passenger seat?
There are two of these under each seat, seem to go down to a box under the carpet, nothing is visable under the car for these. Possibly a cold air return??
I dropped my car key in one of them (long story).
I have more keys, but don't know the affect of dropping a key in these things since I do not know what they are for.
Any help is appreciated.
Sugardog.
Regards,
-Ken
CRaig
I think the base engine should be adequate, especially given the +3hp gain and the -180 lb weight loss.
My dad has an '01 Limited auto and when I told him they now offer an H6 he asked "Why?".
-juice
Thanks for your support, also thanks to Juice.
Sam.
I drive a 1999 Outback Limited 5speed.
You can't get my engine anymore, dual overhead cam,
this engine has more torque at high rpm, so they redesigned
it for 2000 with SOVHC for more torque at lower rpm,
but I love the acceleration I get with this drivetrain,
I personally cannot stand driving a 4 cyl with an automatic,
but if I wanted an auto, I would definitely go with
the H6, just my opinion.
Either engine should outlast the vehicle.
Sam.
Second question - how soon is it safe to use clay on a new car's clearcoat? Should I wait a few months or so, or can it be done anytime. The car in question was mfg in Apr 04.
Lastly, just got the oil analysis back on the wife's OBW. I change the oil every 3000 miles. All of the wear indicators I was seeing a few months ago at 13.5K (Feb 04) are down to about normal at 19.5K. Interestingly enough , the engine is very light on iron wear.
TIA
Larry
Clay it.
-juice
Craig
Interesting point on the oil analysis. Perhaps the reason why iron checks out so low is that our engines blocks are alumnium?
Ken
-juice
All Subaru engines have aluminum pistons, blocks and heads, but the wear surfaces (like the cylinder liners) are iron and steel with coatings and special alloys used to reduce friction and wear. Aluminum is great for light weight and heat dissipation, but is rather soft and not wear resistant.
The low iron content may be the result of the oil filter doing it's job and the iron/steel parts were machined very precisely and very little wear was taking place.
Jim
If more than one window leaks, I'd avoid the car wash. If it's just one, I'd ask the dealer to adjust that track.
I use a 1300psi pressure washer to wash my car and it doesn't leak. My convertible does at times so I adjust accordingly.
-juice
The window leaks problem may be simple to fix. Sometimes, the rubber gasket is seated incorrectly in the track it mounts into on the body of the car. Try easing the beading by working your way around the door seal gasket, preogressively stretching then releasing about four inches at a time. You sort of grab the gasket with both hands about four inches apart, pull your hands apart a little and then let it spring back into place. If the gasket has not seated evenly, this will straigten things out. Also wokrs for many ait leaks. It is also worth leaving the doors open on a very hot day occassionally so the door seals ease back to original shape.
Cheers
Graham
I have a 98 GT Wagon with 83K and I have added security classic on it. My plan lasts up to 90K or till march 05. I'd like to extend the contract but I was wondering if it's even possible. Thanks in advance.
Also, how would I go about cleaning sunroof drains, as I think they are clogged.
I went test driving and found that much of my rear view mirror was filled with the posts. I could work around the view with the side mirrors but found these posts somewhat annoying.
My old Lexus ES300 has a wide rear window and no obstruction.
Will I get used to it? Is evey owner ok with it on the Sub's?
Anyone think it is serious enough not to purchase?
Thanks RO
Craig
-Dave
I went test driving and found that much of my rear view mirror was filled with the posts. I could work around the view with the side mirrors but found these posts somewhat annoying.
My old Lexus ES300 has a wide rear window and no obstruction.
Will I get used to it? Is evey owner ok with it on the Sub's?
Anyone think it is serious enough not to purchase?
Thanks RO
my solution was to just remove them for most driving since no one rides in the backseat ... and they are easy to put back when someone does ...
wifeneedsautom Aug 21, 2004 5:27pm
wow, double post 6 hrs apart
-Dave