Subaru Repair: General Subaru maint/repair, cylinder head gasket, head gasket problem

Question
I'm considering buying a used Outback. Guessing in the range of '96-'01. What should I look for, as far as maintenance done/due since most of the ones I've seen range in mileage from 75k to 175k. Anything in particular
should avoid?

Thanks for any help/insight

Answer
There are major services due every 30,000 miles. And the timing belt is due on the 96-98 2.2l every 60,000 miles. On the 2.5L DOHC engines that are in some Legacy's and almost all Outbacks, the timing belt is due at 105,000 miles. Also, alot of the higher mileage Subaru's develop oil leaks that are not unsafe, but a little messy, and even smelly if unfixed. On the 2.5L DOHC motors, roadtest them long enough to know if the temp gauge works, and if the heat up like they should without overheating. Somtimes people remove thermostats to mask a cylinder head gasket problem, making the car run a little cooler than normal.

If I could, I would go for a 2000 or 2001. They are a little more pricey, but I think fewer problems. You might save money up front on the older ones, but you also might spend the money on repairs quicker on the older ones too.

If you find a Subaru you like, email me the vin and I can check warranty history and see if there are any open recalls. spwilkins@yahoo.com

Z