QuestionMy 1999 Forrester just got diagnosted with two oil leaks... one in the front crank seal and the other in the rear oil separator cover. The mechanic quoted me $2,100 for the parts and labor. Is this estimate valid? Also, is there any other work I should have done while they are in there? My Subaru has 101,000 miles on it. It seemed to run fine until it started to smell like burning rubber. Thanks
AnswerI will answer the second question first. At 105,000 miles Subaru recomends a new timing belt and adjusting valves. I might also consider a new water pump while they are in there taking care of things. Also, with the front timing covers off to do the front crank seal, I would look very closely at both from cam seals, and possibly reseal the oil pump and replace the oil pump o ring. For the oil leak at the back, I would replace the rear main seal and the seperator cover.
As far as the cost goes, thats a tough call. Around here, that price is about twice what it should be. If you replace the front crank seal, reseal the oil pump, replace the oil pump o-ring, replace both cam seals, replace the lower timing cover seal if it is oil soaked, replace the water pump and gasket, thermostat and gasket, timing belt, ac belt and alternator belt - parts should run about $250.00 from a Subaru dealer - give or take $50.00. Labor should be about 5 hours. For the oil leak at the back, you are looking at no more than $50.00 in parts. Maybe another $50.00 if they want to replace the exhaust nuts, bolts, studs, and gaskets. And the labor there should be around 5.5 hours. So, with no more than $400.00 in parts, they are charging over $150.00 an hour, and that seems awful hight. Where are you? Do you have a few places you can call and compare prices? You want to come to southwest Virginia?! Maybe there are more parts on the estimate than you know, and maybe the price isnt high, but if it is for just the parts you listed, I would be very cautious. Good luck. Z
