Subaru Repair: Turbo and trans reliability, oil starvation, subaru outback

Question
I have been considering a 2005+ Subaru Outback or Legacy Wagon.  I’ve
been
seeing good prices on slightly used turbo and would like your impression on
the reliability of the XT model.

Sorry to compare, but my last car was an Audi A4 – I lived in constant fear of
mechanical failure after the warranty expired, very expensive.  I was never
clear on what would happen, but mechanics would always warn me to be
cautious with the turbos.  I got the impression that if the turbo blew on an
Audi, other things would surely be destroyed.  Either super expensive to
replace the turbo or it would be a symptom, and maybe cause of,  engine oil
starvation or deeper engine trouble.  This would seem to lead to ultimate
Audi death.

How do Subaru turbos compare?  How rare/common are problems with
turbos?  If one does fail, how much does it affect the rest of the engine?  Is it
just a matter of replacing the turbo and moving on with your life?

The other issue I had with my Audi was the CVT transmission.  I was advised
by many technicians to sell the car after warranty – the reason being that CVT
problems are high and it is sealed closed and could never be rebuilt.  So,
transmission failure would mean that I would have to pay $6000 minimum for
a replacement plus labor ($8000 average).

How are the drive trains on the 05+ Subaru?  Any transmission can go at
any
time, it sucks, but I’m used to handing over less than $2000 to get the job
done and not worry about it for the rest of the cars life.  Can a Subaru
transmission be rebuilt?  What is the average cost to get a wrecked Subaru
tranny back on the road?

Thank you in advance.

Answer
The 05 auto transmission seems to be holding up pretty well .But that being said you have to realize it went through some major changes for 05.The engine and turbo were also basically re designed that year as well.So far so good.I am familiar with the Audi and yes the Trans on just about any newer German car is a train wreck to your wallet waiting to happen.Subaru remans are spendy as well and the price will vary in different parts of the country.But should be somewhere between $2500.00 to $3000.00.All in all i think the turbo legacy is a good car & they really haven't had to make any major changes to the 05 design which is usually a good sign.

Justin
All Wheel Drive Auto