Had bebegirl not driven our 1st Gen into a Corvette, it would be happily over 300k now. That said, we were able to take advantage of the other well-known attribute of an OBW, safety.
I re-headed my 1stGen OBW dangling out of a garage (not enough room) with whatever tools I could buy for the newly-discovered task in front of me barely in time for a month long tour of Montana starting and returning from ABQ, NM. It took me a little while with the skimpiest of tools and conditions. I bet you could spin that engine into shape in no time. -right tool for the job 👍🏼.
As a Subaru owner, I am sad to see a Subie in this condition. I will devote all my watch time to MrSubaru and hope YT pays him enough money to restore this car to where it should be mechanically If it become a series Saving the Subie, I will watch all of it.
Maybe I'm being naive, but since it aesthetically looks good, plus no codes and clean title, I'd say head gaskets + engine cleanup + new PS pump + headlight polish + new battery terminals you could flip it for 3 to 5 grand. Hell that rust don't look so bad up north.
The cancer he shows is in the exhaust and surface rust on a few rear links. The only thing that kills these shells is cancer in the rear subframe , rear sills and wheel arches. Anywhere electrolyte buildup happens. I've even had the lower hatch strut mounts rot out in them and its a simple repair. Mr Subaru is 100% right, the thing that kills these cars is owner neglect. As long as components and hardware are replaceable, a straight 3rd gen shell is infinitely rebuildable. @@FastLaneFastLane-ti4re
That car is mint underneath compared to the northern stuff. My neighbors 11 Outback, I cant even pick it up anymore by the pinch welds with the lift its so rusty. If I weren't 1k miles away, I would come and pick it up for what you have into it. Pull and reseal the engine and figure out a trans. Body is REALLY clean on it.
6 weeks ago I found your channel when I decided to buy a Subaru, I picked up a 24 Crosstrek this Friday. I subscribed because you know what and why shit happens. Plus, you get mad without actually getting mad. 😂
In the northeast that car is absolutely worth 1K . I would take it in a second. You have to see what 1K gets you here. JUNK. Rusted junk. This is an easy fix. Swap the engine or fix this one and figure out the trans. Even they are not that much $ for a good used one.
I was thinking the same thing here in the PNW, all day people will be selling these, quarter panel damage, different colored front bumper and hood. “Runs and drives great just needs new head gaskets $2,500 firm 249k miles” we don’t have to worry about the rust as much like you over there tho
Seems like a 1k car. I have one similar and an $800 Impreza L that ive been customizing into my camping/rally car over the years. Just took her on a 1400 miler trip to visit mom and no issues. Driving 75 mph on I70 for 8 hours was the worst part. Kinda sketchy with a spring lift and no antisway bars! 290k and shes going strong.
My 2012 Outback doesn't have a drop of oil anywhere on the outside of the engine. Engine looks new. Only 110K on it and it's garaged but still a good car. And yes it does get driven in the salt but I wash it off after the roads dry off so no rust underside. Did an inspection last fall and there was no need for any fluid film. Original factory paint on all subframe and suspension components.
I say save this disaster and document the whole thing. You're Mrsubaru dang it. Show the engine rebuild. Show the suspension rebuild. Figure out that trans and rear end and we'll soak thay knowledge up😊😊
I could fix either the engine or a rebuilt transmission but after 35 years of working as a mechanic I don’t restore disposable vehicles that need two major repairs. I love my 2001 Outback but it knocks on one piston when cold and the head gasket overheats the engine when it’s 100F. It has 190,000 and I bought it totaled in 2008 for $1,500 so it’s been a good beater and my forth Subaru. 1980 4WD hatchback with a 1600cc was my first, $500 and a used engine swap and I was delivering newspapers in the snowy hills for many years.
I've been driving Subies since '09. I keep them maintained and have never had an issue. Some people just refuse to take care of stuff. Those types are usually the biggest complainers.
this is my feeling as a kia tech dude. no one changes their oil no one does any maintenance and wonders why they need an engine at 90k and still complain even though it’s still under warranty!
I know that this car is a disaster BUT if your into challenges (some of us out here get stuck with junk ) it would be interesting to see what you can do to put this car into working order and what would it cost.
I am thinking a great training tool for some HS kids to learn on. Gut the interior and have them look through junk yards for good replacement parts. Basically do the car in sections and maybe local business would sponsor the projects.
Or tech school. When I was in school we’d get plenty of cars like this. The program had plenty of budget so we’d fix them up and “sell” them to students family members who needed them or other community members in need. Honestly was pretty great
This is even worse than the Legacy a client bought at auction and had me repair. One of the cam plugs was half in broken/missing bolts every where. One of the broken bellhousing bolts was replaced with an exhaust stud to hold the starter on. I hope you’re bracing yourself for when you pull the engine.
Would like to see a video on the Head gasket replacement, That is a job I'm going to be doing on my EJ251 engine sometime coming up, leaking a small amount of oil on the pass. side.
How many miles? I have the same engine but low low miles, no signs of head gasket leaks so far. I try to change the oil once or twice a year. Or every 2 to 3 thousand miles.
My 2015 Forester just hit 90,000. Only major issue was the valve body which was replaced. I wish I could find someone near me who will change my transmission fluid cause the dealer keeps telling me it’s a lifetime fluid. Need to get the front and rear differential serviced. Had that done once already.
Yeah my dealer keeps telling me the same. I also have a lifetime power train warranty with them. I chuckled when I told them they'll be replacing the tranny some day then.
I’m amazed at the condition of this vehicle. I have a 2009 Impreza that the underbody looks brand new. I replaced all suspension components at 100k. Timing belt kit at 95k. New spark plugs, wires, coil pack at 110k. It now is at about 112k. My brother and I might pull the engine at 130k to replace the head gasket. It’s held up well though, Dry as a bone. My Mom purchased this vehicle new and I bought it from her in 2011.
As an owner of an 04 wrx from 91k - 213k (current) I agree with all your statement. Subaru gets a bad wrap because people don’t maintain. I’ve done all the maintenance, preemptive maintenance like replacing a lot of the old hoses, motor and transmission has been untouched. Not sure if the clutch or head gasket was replaced before my ownership but my car is still running strong
Humorously I was thinking the same thing when I saw the spare change in the console area 😄 Definitely seems to confirm the owner unfortunately was not very knowledgeable about vehicles and did not take care of it well. Even the rear diff was leaking. I hate to think they probably never changed the fluid. This was painful to watch. 😬
Hello from Mexico. Just discovered your channel. I bought 2003 Subaru Outback LL Bean Edition. I'm determined to learn to work on it myself as much as I can, when it's needed.
I have a 2.2 ej that i almost messed up a timing job on. MrSubaru himself actually responded to my email and gave me some advice. A year and a half later and its still my daily! Since then I replaced the water pump, new seals and o-rings for oil pump, and replaced some old coolant hoses. Still got to fix A/C and bleed breaks. Anyways, all this to say that even these videos where you're not fixing anything are super useful just to be able to compare what mine looks like compared to something a little more mistreated.
I hope you brought this up with the "shop" who did this work for this customer. If you've done work for them in the past, I'd steer clear of them if this is the type of quality of service they're performing.
Reading the comments and seeing some people suggesting that you go through and do the repairs necessary. I am thinking the same thing. Maybe use this process for some of us to learn from. An example, this is why you change your oil. This is why you do this service. I try to keep up with the maintenence on my vehicles, but sometimes things are just way over my budget. But, if watching you on TH-cam videos, and seeing the process to fix things helps me learn and I get to see things I cannot see since I am not a mechanic, I am in. But, I know, working on cars is expensive.
With a little bit of repair, that relatively rust free Subie would bring $5k up north. That underside looks pristine rust wise compared to what comparably price Outbacks bring.
Cut it in half at the B pillars and make the back end of it a trailer for your other working Outback.. That way you can have the outback of an Outback outback of your Outback.
Bought my 2008 Outback used, 1500 miles on it (allegedly). Drove it 2k miles and the transmission blew. No worries; it was covered by the factory warranty. Car has had more recalls on it than any other I’ve had, including that nasty dashboard. By the way, I had the new dashboard installed under the recall, and it is now in even worse shape than the original dashboard. It now has 130,000 miles on it. Runs and drives great with regular maintenance, though!
Yes, excellent video - your integrity willing to share the specifics of how NOT to do it, in hopes that the vicarious experience may spare at least some of us from a similar misstep. And, this video provides an anti-list of all the items I expect to have right when presenting the car to you next year for 40,000 km service - including fluid replacement in the CVT.
Subaru's are great cars until they aren't. We had a 2002 Forester for 18 years - Of course later in its life it had leaking head gaskets, PO420 error, and was burning oil. This was at 200K miles. To me that means they're good but not great. The problems it had shouldn't have happened, considering I took care of it meticulously. As for the dumpster fire, I would enjoy watching you turn that engine into something decent again. The interior and exterior aren't bad. So long as the engine doesn't burn oil, it might be worth resealing and cleaning up.
My 2000 Forrester died around 190K, same problems plus AWD solenoid. My 2001 Outback only over heats in 100F weather, piston pin knock when cold on one cylinder. It’s 190,000 miles now. It’s a winter beater but not many miles left until it’s head gasket will take it out of service. They are 200,000 mile vehicles for the most part from what I read. This is my forth Subaru and I have been working as a mechanic for 35 years.
One of the red flags for me to run away as a tech was throw away temporary battery terminal ends.... Everytime I saw a vehicle with those, the vehicles and owners were trash....
What a shame. My first Subaru was a 2009 Outback. I LOVED it! The only issue I had, was a bad wheel bearing, and the power steering pump went out, and was all fixed under warrantee. Ran awesome, until 2015, when I traded it in, on a 2015 3.6 Outback. It was so funny, because by the time they had mine ready, my trade in was already sold, LOL!
I love my 09 Forester X. I drive it like I stole it everytime I am in it. It has a full aftermarket suspension and handles like a dream. Last Saturday on one of my spirited runs I blew my motor. I, me and no one else let it run low on oil. With that being said. I ordered a low mileage JDM motor from a importer I have used before. Swap the intake manifold, exhaust manifold and valve covers from old engine. Bought and installed new clutch kit, water pump/timing belt kit. I spent about $2,600 and back in business!
To be fair, I think people treat Subaru the same way that they treat Toyota and Honda because they are all Japanese-and the Hondas and Toyotas from the 90s and early 00s could be driven for hundreds of thousands of miles with virtual no maintenance or care/pride of ownership with the vehicle🤷🏻♂️ I have a 2015 XV Crosstrek with 220k and it runs like a dime most of the time. I did pull it into the shop last week to do a clutch, because the throw out bearing started making some noise.
Still my favourite gen of Legacy/Outback - fix it! About 2.5 years ago I paid about 3x that for the base trim '05 that my dad is driving - really slim pickings at the time. It has about 320k km and more dings/rust, but everything works. My '06 Legacy GT wagon will go to the grave with me.
Clean title..solid body...complete...for a thousand in 2024...its a deal to a hobbiest to get it fixed up....If it was perfectly maintained the owner would of kept it or sold it for 4k or much more....you may have gotton lucky years ago with lower prices or better condition...this is just sick to hear all the whining....do you even fix cars for retail anymore....cant see anyone tolerating to work with such a princess....
Hey Mr Subaru. Thanks for all your great content. Seriously I really appreciate it. I have tackled a number of repairs on our recently retired 2009 Impreza because of you. I just picked up a 2012 Impreza Hatchback with 280,000 KM. It needs a little work but nothing to serious as it had a new engine at 160,09 km under the oil consumption recall. I am planning on front and rear differential fluid change tomorrow and wondered about what fluid for the front as it is a 5 speed. Seems like lots of opinions. Would love to hear your recommendation. Thanks again for all you do.
Honestly a great car. My dad gave me his old 2009 Subaru Outback 5mt it’s great reliable I just need to get some work done on it would be great if you can share some tips on fixing the head gaskets and the oil leaks wanna try and get started on working on it 😭
re: dashboard - That recall wasn't a formal government-ordered recall. I took my 2007 Legacy into the dealer back whenever those notices were sent (maybe 2010 or so). There was nothing obviously wrong with it at the time. But about two years ago it suddenly developed the stickiness on a hot day. I don't believe the "recall" entailed any definitive matching of bad batches of plastic with specific cars, i.e. looking at VIN or manufacture dates, just visual inspection. A few months ago I got a Covercraft "Ltd Edition" cover that looks pretty nice (not the carpet/velour/suede versions🤮). There are some guys in Australia selling some paint/coating solution , but the videos (which to their credit they provide on their website) didn't look that good to me.
well whooooops! Bet that no look buying wont happen again! Ok, totally change of direction. I came across your channel at the beginning of this month while searching for info for my daughters 2011 outback 3.6. Your way of presenting repairs and such is so straight forward, easy to understand, with no bs. I have already done several parts change outs, cleaning, etc from watching your videos. BUT... went through all your vids and couldn't find any on EGR cleaning. Nor have found any via internet search. Any chance of you doing a vid for outback 3.6? ps.- several vids out there on 2.5 EGR cleaning, but none found for 3.6! Otherwise, thanks for such clear and informative teachings!
I’m currently doing through this unfortunately with a 2006 forester. Bought the car in August from a dealership So you know I overpaid, thing was leaking oil from the get go dealer took it in multiple times and they did nothing. So I had an actual Subaru mechanic do the head gasket timing belt and water pump as well as fix the multiple oil leaks. Sucks this car is turning into a money pit she runs great now but there’s a whine from front differential mechanic said it’s okay for now but will need a transmission ugh I’m out of money lol at this point. Hat people that don’t do the simple maintenance to cars 😢 now I’m trying to save this poor car.
Could be worse. The subaru dealer just quoted me $22k to replace the engine and transmission on my 2011 outback with 150k miles, and called it typical maintenance. Meanwhile, my corolla has 200k miles and still running fine...
I take care of my cars and the Subaru is okay over the long term. Bought it new in 2013, a H6 3.6L engine with 5 speed automatic Legacy. Now have 145,000 miles and I have had the following concerns - limited oil burning from 44,000 miles on (not much, but I watch the oil level and occasionally add 1/2 quart between 5,000 mile oil changes - less than the 7500 miles Subaru recommends). Additional issues: failing master brake cylinder, 119,000 miles, front and rear brake bearing failure at 125,000, front strut fracturing at 130,000 (replaced both), and engine coil failure at 130,000 (despite the fact I replaced spark plugs every 60,000 as recommended). I care a lot for my cars and Subaru is okay - but losing those coils did not make me happy (only car I lost them on and I have owned a Toyota for 200,000 miles and a Saab for 200,000 miles - never had a coil failure until this Subaru). Still drive the Subaru however and hope to make 200,000.
Why are the cheap battery terminals bad? Both mine failed on my 2012 and the Subaru harness was the only way to get it for $90. The AutoZone terminals crimped on solid and are stronger metal than the factory ones. Genuinely curious, if there's a real benefit I'll go right out and swap them for Subaru parts
It’s because the wire connections generally are not very solid and always corrode. There is nothing wrong with lead terminals otherwise, actually have more surface area than the OEM ones.
Well as bad as this outback is. I think they youtube society would love to see you go through all of it. Sounds n looks like there is a lot of lessons here. Thanks by the way for all you do. I have a few subbies and refer to your great work and advice on repairs. Wish I could afford that sweet TopDon you have. Maybe someday
Maybe I got lucky, but a trakmotive axle fit no problem and has been going for a few years. I do have the roll pin axles though so maybe that helps with fit to some degree.
Might a good candidate for some “how-to” repair videos since there is so much that needs done. Shame to see a clean body go to the junk yard. Loving the videos and your work.
Have you ever bought one of the used Japanese engines? They ship them over from Japanese suppliers. These are really low mileage engines. Buddy of mine dropped one in his Outback and had really good luck with it.
While it wouldn’t make financial sense, it would be good to see an unloved car returned to good condition. Do a full engine and suspension rebuild and maybe a trans tear down.
The body and interior look nice enough to rescue. A reman engine might be worth it depending on what’s up with the trans. How hard is it to manual swap a Subie?
Wish my 2008 body was in that good a condition here in New York. The salt just destroyed my car. Even with rust proofing. They should never have made that open rocker area. Salt just got up in there and that was all she wrote. 228,000 miles later, original head gaskets and she still runs good. Been watching Mr Subaru now since day one. I follow all maintenance suggestions and still get an average of 28 mpg. I love my Subie. Its been a great car.
The BIG problem is junk yards, as standard procedure, knowingly sending people junk engines trying to rip people off, somehow hoping they won't come back, because they can get good money for what should be a core.
I'd just re-seal the engine, including new head gaskets & timing belt, clean things up, and then re-sell it at a decent market value price considering complete re-seal. That way, you get paid a few thousand $$ for not too much of your time doing that. I'd be 100% positive on all mounts, including engine ones, before writing off that transmission, though.
For 2009 it's not so bad, it could be worse. Without a doubt I think that the engine will have to be removed to change gaskets, seals, orings, water pump, thermostats, radiator and fluids, with greater precision.
But it still ran! Subies are tough; they are the number one selling cars in the state on Maine. My Subie was a 2007 and died at 216,000 miles; I think my mechanic killed it. He should have changed the oil pump instead of the oil pressure switch and the engine spun a rod bearing. I was without a car for months and I live way out in the country. There is a small car dealer and mechanic in my hamlet only 2 miles away and had a 2015 corolla for sale so I bought it. It is a beautiful car, but 2 wheel drive and won't get up my driveway. It is the worse car in snow and mud. My biggest complaint is the ride. I hate how it handles. I miss my subie! Maybe you could save some parts like the intake manifold and such. You rebuild older cars so maybe some of those parts would be useful. I wish you the best with it!
Call me crazy but a tiny part of me wants to know how much that car will sell for once you reseal the motor and diagnose the transmission. I have a daughter that will be driving in 6 months and would love to stick her in a subaru for a few bucks. A subaru from YOU would be icing on the cake.
with the high miles on it i would just part it out. if its a PZEV car the catalytic converters alone will get you alot of your money back in scrap. pull and reseal the engine and use it in a better car.
I hate to say it but you got "Hoovied" good on this disaster. It does happen - seems these days there are dishonest scumbags ripping people off on every aspect of life. You've got a great disposition and nature. Very philosophical and I applaud you. I am not so understanding. A flaw in my character.
General Subaru question for drivers in the salt belt states....after market rustproofing something that should be done? I'm considering a Subaru as a next family car and want to ensure it survives the winter environment. I've seen a few Subaru videos where the body sheet metal looks acceptable but the unibody frames are rusted through.
I'm considering purchasing a 2013 outback with 33k original miles. 1 owner. From a dealer. 2.5 four cylinder. Premium. Are there anything I should be concerned about? I appreciate any thoughts
Same dealer also has a 2012 Outback 3.6r limited with 97k. They m really attracted to the 33 k miles. But the 3.6r motor with 97k looks pretty darn good as well. Any suggestions?
Did you ever figure out if they actually changed the timing belt 10k ago? Also, I think most of us would be interested in watching you fix this car, and you could even have a host of tutorials come out of this car.
If life gives you lemons, make lemonade. Perhaps this car would be a project car to give it a new life? Pull the engine and record a rebuild (do you do that?). Replace the parts that need replacing. Perhaps this can get a new life? Similar to your other projects, but this one is definitely starting from a worse place. I don't know how much these are worth when reconditioned, but it would be "like new" once you are done with it.
Is that tailgate glass aftermarket tinted? 2009's had factory tint, but all other years were clear. I'll bet the VIN on that tailgate doesn't match the car which means the rear got crunched or something similar. It would also explain why that failing clearcoat doesn't match the rest of the car.
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This gives me chest pains. I have handed down 2 Subarus to my daughters with 220,000 and 250,000 miles, and they are still on the road 2 years later.
As the old timers used to say ‘angina’.
Had bebegirl not driven our 1st Gen into a Corvette, it would be happily over 300k now.
That said, we were able to take advantage of the other well-known attribute of an OBW, safety.
that timing belt sticker is from the old engine, they never touched the salvage engine
Im feel more and more emotionally invested in this cars story. Its like a rescue animal. You have to give it the love it deserved before the end. ❤
I re-headed my 1stGen OBW dangling out of a garage (not enough room) with whatever tools I could buy for the newly-discovered task in front of me barely in time for a month long tour of Montana starting and returning from ABQ, NM.
It took me a little while with the skimpiest of tools and conditions.
I bet you could spin that engine into shape in no time. -right tool for the job 👍🏼.
As a Subaru owner, I am sad to see a Subie in this condition. I will devote all my watch time to MrSubaru and hope YT pays him enough money to restore this car to where it should be mechanically If it become a series Saving the Subie, I will watch all of it.
Maybe I'm being naive, but since it aesthetically looks good, plus no codes and clean title, I'd say head gaskets + engine cleanup + new PS pump + headlight polish + new battery terminals you could flip it for 3 to 5 grand. Hell that rust don't look so bad up north.
Couldn't even finish the intro before hitting a thumbs up.
It would be pretty badass to turn that car into something decent. Redemption.
Not sure about that one. listen to the video.. States cancer. I was starting to think it was a Baja.
The cancer he shows is in the exhaust and surface rust on a few rear links. The only thing that kills these shells is cancer in the rear subframe , rear sills and wheel arches. Anywhere electrolyte buildup happens. I've even had the lower hatch strut mounts rot out in them and its a simple repair. Mr Subaru is 100% right, the thing that kills these cars is owner neglect. As long as components and hardware are replaceable, a straight 3rd gen shell is infinitely rebuildable. @@FastLaneFastLane-ti4re
At least radiator cap looks good.
LOL 😂
Lol
😂
😂 The Subaru logo looks mint too
That car is mint underneath compared to the northern stuff. My neighbors 11 Outback, I cant even pick it up anymore by the pinch welds with the lift its so rusty.
If I weren't 1k miles away, I would come and pick it up for what you have into it. Pull and reseal the engine and figure out a trans. Body is REALLY clean on it.
6 weeks ago I found your channel when I decided to buy a Subaru, I picked up a 24 Crosstrek this Friday. I subscribed because you know what and why shit happens. Plus, you get mad without actually getting mad. 😂
Lol! Experience I guess
I am thinking about an Outback. I didn't like the Crosstrek. Its like a lifted Impreza. Impreza is a box, thin box.
@MrSubaru1387 You should rebuild it. That car deserves a better end than rusting out in a junk yard.
Fingers crossed that there is at least $100 in change in that center console.
I pretty sure the previous dude triple checked,that he didn’t leave anything of value (money,gold ring/necklace,)😒
In the northeast that car is absolutely worth 1K . I would take it in a second. You have to see what 1K gets you here. JUNK. Rusted junk. This is an easy fix. Swap the engine or fix this one and figure out the trans. Even they are not that much $ for a good used one.
I was thinking the same thing here in the PNW, all day people will be selling these, quarter panel damage, different colored front bumper and hood. “Runs and drives great just needs new head gaskets $2,500 firm 249k miles” we don’t have to worry about the rust as much like you over there tho
I completely agree. I would take it in a second as well. That doesn't even look like rust compared to a New England car.
Seems like a 1k car.
I have one similar and an $800 Impreza L that ive been customizing into my camping/rally car over the years.
Just took her on a 1400 miler trip to visit mom and no issues.
Driving 75 mph on I70 for 8 hours was the worst part. Kinda sketchy with a spring lift and no antisway bars!
290k and shes going strong.
My 2012 Outback doesn't have a drop of oil anywhere on the outside of the engine. Engine looks new. Only 110K on it and it's garaged but still a good car. And yes it does get driven in the salt but I wash it off after the roads dry off so no rust underside. Did an inspection last fall and there was no need for any fluid film. Original factory paint on all subframe and suspension components.
I say save this disaster and document the whole thing. You're Mrsubaru dang it. Show the engine rebuild. Show the suspension rebuild. Figure out that trans and rear end and we'll soak thay knowledge up😊😊
I second this !
I could fix either the engine or a rebuilt transmission but after 35 years of working as a mechanic I don’t restore disposable vehicles that need two major repairs. I love my 2001 Outback but it knocks on one piston when cold and the head gasket overheats the engine when it’s 100F. It has 190,000 and I bought it totaled in 2008 for $1,500 so it’s been a good beater and my forth Subaru. 1980 4WD hatchback with a 1600cc was my first, $500 and a used engine swap and I was delivering newspapers in the snowy hills for many years.
About the only way fixing this vehicle makes sense is with a donor car that has a sound engine and transmission, but has been in a rear-end collision.
I've been driving Subies since '09. I keep them maintained and have never had an issue. Some people just refuse to take care of stuff. Those types are usually the biggest complainers.
I want an engine teardown. I love your videos on that.
This really is kind of the perfect project car.
Pretty much everything needs attention, right down to the wrong floor mats.
I’m here for the duration!
After watching this, I’m gonna go out and give my old 2004 Volvo S80 a big hug and give thanks that its previous owners didn’t abuse it.
this is my feeling as a kia tech dude. no one changes their oil no one does any maintenance and wonders why they need an engine at 90k and still complain even though it’s still under warranty!
Hi Mr. Subaru, sorry about the condition of the car. I do like the body style of that generation of Outback 👍
I know that this car is a disaster BUT if your into challenges (some of us out here get stuck with junk ) it would be interesting to see what you can do to put this car into working order and what would it cost.
I am thinking a great training tool for some HS kids to learn on. Gut the interior and have them look through junk yards for good replacement parts. Basically do the car in sections and maybe local business would sponsor the projects.
Or tech school. When I was in school we’d get plenty of cars like this. The program had plenty of budget so we’d fix them up and “sell” them to students family members who needed them or other community members in need. Honestly was pretty great
Looking forward to you going through the engine to freshen it up if you choose to!
Your comments about lack of maintenance are spot on.
This is even worse than the Legacy a client bought at auction and had me repair. One of the cam plugs was half in broken/missing bolts every where. One of the broken bellhousing bolts was replaced with an exhaust stud to hold the starter on. I hope you’re bracing yourself for when you pull the engine.
Would like to see a video on the Head gasket replacement, That is a job I'm going to be doing on my EJ251 engine sometime coming up, leaking a small amount of oil on the pass. side.
How many miles? I have the same engine but low low miles, no signs of head gasket leaks so far. I try to change the oil once or twice a year. Or every 2 to 3 thousand miles.
@@warzee123 177,000 in a 2003 Forester.
My 2015 Forester just hit 90,000. Only major issue was the valve body which was replaced. I wish I could find someone near me who will change my transmission fluid cause the dealer keeps telling me it’s a lifetime fluid. Need to get the front and rear differential serviced. Had that done once already.
Yeah my dealer keeps telling me the same. I also have a lifetime power train warranty with them. I chuckled when I told them they'll be replacing the tranny some day then.
I’m amazed at the condition of this vehicle. I have a 2009 Impreza that the underbody looks brand new. I replaced all suspension components at 100k. Timing belt kit at 95k. New spark plugs, wires, coil pack at 110k. It now is at about 112k. My brother and I might pull the engine at 130k to replace the head gasket. It’s held up well though, Dry as a bone. My Mom purchased this vehicle new and I bought it from her in 2011.
As an owner of an 04 wrx from 91k - 213k (current) I agree with all your statement. Subaru gets a bad wrap because people don’t maintain. I’ve done all the maintenance, preemptive maintenance like replacing a lot of the old hoses, motor and transmission has been untouched. Not sure if the clutch or head gasket was replaced before my ownership but my car is still running strong
Humorously I was thinking the same thing when I saw the spare change in the console area 😄
Definitely seems to confirm the owner unfortunately was not very knowledgeable about vehicles and did not take care of it well. Even the rear diff was leaking. I hate to think they probably never changed the fluid. This was painful to watch. 😬
Hello from Mexico. Just discovered your channel. I bought 2003 Subaru Outback LL Bean Edition. I'm determined to learn to work on it myself as much as I can, when it's needed.
I have a 2.2 ej that i almost messed up a timing job on. MrSubaru himself actually responded to my email and gave me some advice. A year and a half later and its still my daily! Since then I replaced the water pump, new seals and o-rings for oil pump, and replaced some old coolant hoses. Still got to fix A/C and bleed breaks. Anyways, all this to say that even these videos where you're not fixing anything are super useful just to be able to compare what mine looks like compared to something a little more mistreated.
I hope you brought this up with the "shop" who did this work for this customer. If you've done work for them in the past, I'd steer clear of them if this is the type of quality of service they're performing.
i think he did the adult thing of accepting responsibility and then acknowledge and avoid
Reading the comments and seeing some people suggesting that you go through and do the repairs necessary. I am thinking the same thing. Maybe use this process for some of us to learn from. An example, this is why you change your oil. This is why you do this service. I try to keep up with the maintenence on my vehicles, but sometimes things are just way over my budget.
But, if watching you on TH-cam videos, and seeing the process to fix things helps me learn and I get to see things I cannot see since I am not a mechanic, I am in.
But, I know, working on cars is expensive.
With a little bit of repair, that relatively rust free Subie would bring $5k up north. That underside looks pristine rust wise compared to what comparably price Outbacks bring.
Cut it in half at the B pillars and make the back end of it a trailer for your other working Outback.. That way you can have the outback of an Outback outback of your Outback.
Bought my 2008 Outback used, 1500 miles on it (allegedly). Drove it 2k miles and the transmission blew. No worries; it was covered by the factory warranty. Car has had more recalls on it than any other I’ve had, including that nasty dashboard. By the way, I had the new dashboard installed under the recall, and it is now in even worse shape than the original dashboard. It now has 130,000 miles on it. Runs and drives great with regular maintenance, though!
Could use the car to do a tutorial video on removing the engine and maybe restoring the engine
Yes, excellent video - your integrity willing to share the specifics of how NOT to do it, in hopes that the vicarious experience may spare at least some of us from a similar misstep. And, this video provides an anti-list of all the items I expect to have right when presenting the car to you next year for 40,000 km service - including fluid replacement in the CVT.
Subaru's are great cars until they aren't. We had a 2002 Forester for 18 years - Of course later in its life it had leaking head gaskets, PO420 error, and was burning oil. This was at 200K miles. To me that means they're good but not great. The problems it had shouldn't have happened, considering I took care of it meticulously. As for the dumpster fire, I would enjoy watching you turn that engine into something decent again. The interior and exterior aren't bad. So long as the engine doesn't burn oil, it might be worth resealing and cleaning up.
My 2000 Forrester died around 190K, same problems plus AWD solenoid. My 2001 Outback only over heats in 100F weather, piston pin knock when cold on one cylinder. It’s 190,000 miles now. It’s a winter beater but not many miles left until it’s head gasket will take it out of service. They are 200,000 mile vehicles for the most part from what I read. This is my forth Subaru and I have been working as a mechanic for 35 years.
I have a meticulously maintained '11 Outback with 280,000 miles that I would drive anywhere. It's the most reliable one of the 4 that I have.
One of the red flags for me to run away as a tech was throw away temporary battery terminal ends.... Everytime I saw a vehicle with those, the vehicles and owners were trash....
What a shame.
My first Subaru was a 2009 Outback.
I LOVED it!
The only issue I had, was a bad wheel bearing, and the power steering pump went out, and was all fixed under warrantee.
Ran awesome, until 2015, when I traded it in, on a 2015 3.6 Outback.
It was so funny, because by the time they had mine ready, my trade in was already sold, LOL!
I love my 09 Forester X. I drive it like I stole it everytime I am in it. It has a full aftermarket suspension and handles like a dream. Last Saturday on one of my spirited runs I blew my motor. I, me and no one else let it run low on oil. With that being said. I ordered a low mileage JDM motor from a importer I have used before. Swap the intake manifold, exhaust manifold and valve covers from old engine. Bought and installed new clutch kit, water pump/timing belt kit. I spent about $2,600 and back in business!
Anyone got any good tips on finding a decent importer?
How's the radio sound?
To be fair, I think people treat Subaru the same way that they treat Toyota and Honda because they are all Japanese-and the Hondas and Toyotas from the 90s and early 00s could be driven for hundreds of thousands of miles with virtual no maintenance or care/pride of ownership with the vehicle🤷🏻♂️
I have a 2015 XV Crosstrek with 220k and it runs like a dime most of the time. I did pull it into the shop last week to do a clutch, because the throw out bearing started making some noise.
Just sold my 2013 legacy with 328635 thousands miles.
That's awesome.
@@truckerrickakamanowar yes sir.
I would love to see you restore the beat up beauty. If you decide to sell parts, I'd be interested in the axles and some interior components.
Still my favourite gen of Legacy/Outback - fix it!
About 2.5 years ago I paid about 3x that for the base trim '05 that my dad is driving - really slim pickings at the time. It has about 320k km and more dings/rust, but everything works. My '06 Legacy GT wagon will go to the grave with me.
Clean title..solid body...complete...for a thousand in 2024...its a deal to a hobbiest to get it fixed up....If it was perfectly maintained the owner would of kept it or sold it for 4k or much more....you may have gotton lucky years ago with lower prices or better condition...this is just sick to hear all the whining....do you even fix cars for retail anymore....cant see anyone tolerating to work with such a princess....
Hey Mr Subaru. Thanks for all your great content. Seriously I really appreciate it. I have tackled a number of repairs on our recently retired 2009 Impreza because of you. I just picked up a 2012 Impreza Hatchback with 280,000 KM. It needs a little work but nothing to serious as it had a new engine at 160,09 km under the oil consumption recall. I am planning on front and rear differential fluid change tomorrow and wondered about what fluid for the front as it is a 5 speed. Seems like lots of opinions. Would love to hear your recommendation. Thanks again for all you do.
Honestly a great car. My dad gave me his old 2009 Subaru Outback 5mt it’s great reliable I just need to get some work done on it would be great if you can share some tips on fixing the head gaskets and the oil leaks wanna try and get started on working on it 😭
re: dashboard - That recall wasn't a formal government-ordered recall. I took my 2007 Legacy into the dealer back whenever those notices were sent (maybe 2010 or so). There was nothing obviously wrong with it at the time. But about two years ago it suddenly developed the stickiness on a hot day. I don't believe the "recall" entailed any definitive matching of bad batches of plastic with specific cars, i.e. looking at VIN or manufacture dates, just visual inspection. A few months ago I got a Covercraft "Ltd Edition" cover that looks pretty nice (not the carpet/velour/suede versions🤮). There are some guys in Australia selling some paint/coating solution , but the videos (which to their credit they provide on their website) didn't look that good to me.
well whooooops! Bet that no look buying wont happen again! Ok, totally change of direction. I came across your channel at the beginning of this month while searching for info for my daughters 2011 outback 3.6. Your way of presenting repairs and such is so straight forward, easy to understand, with no bs. I have already done several parts change outs, cleaning, etc from watching your videos. BUT... went through all your vids and couldn't find any on EGR cleaning. Nor have found any via internet search. Any chance of you doing a vid for outback 3.6? ps.- several vids out there on 2.5 EGR cleaning, but none found for 3.6! Otherwise, thanks for such clear and informative teachings!
I’m currently doing through this unfortunately with a 2006 forester. Bought the car in August from a dealership So you know I overpaid, thing was leaking oil from the get go dealer took it in multiple times and they did nothing. So I had an actual Subaru mechanic do the head gasket timing belt and water pump as well as fix the multiple oil leaks. Sucks this car is turning into a money pit she runs great now but there’s a whine from front differential mechanic said it’s okay for now but will need a transmission ugh I’m out of money lol at this point. Hat people that don’t do the simple maintenance to cars 😢 now I’m trying to save this poor car.
Could be worse. The subaru dealer just quoted me $22k to replace the engine and transmission on my 2011 outback with 150k miles, and called it typical maintenance. Meanwhile, my corolla has 200k miles and still running fine...
I take care of my cars and the Subaru is okay over the long term. Bought it new in 2013, a H6 3.6L engine with 5 speed automatic Legacy. Now have 145,000 miles and I have had the following concerns - limited oil burning from 44,000 miles on (not much, but I watch the oil level and occasionally add 1/2 quart between 5,000 mile oil changes - less than the 7500 miles Subaru recommends). Additional issues: failing master brake cylinder, 119,000 miles, front and rear brake bearing failure at 125,000, front strut fracturing at 130,000 (replaced both), and engine coil failure at 130,000 (despite the fact I replaced spark plugs every 60,000 as recommended). I care a lot for my cars and Subaru is okay - but losing those coils did not make me happy (only car I lost them on and I have owned a Toyota for 200,000 miles and a Saab for 200,000 miles - never had a coil failure until this Subaru). Still drive the Subaru however and hope to make 200,000.
Why are the cheap battery terminals bad? Both mine failed on my 2012 and the Subaru harness was the only way to get it for $90. The AutoZone terminals crimped on solid and are stronger metal than the factory ones. Genuinely curious, if there's a real benefit I'll go right out and swap them for Subaru parts
It’s because the wire connections generally are not very solid and always corrode. There is nothing wrong with lead terminals otherwise, actually have more surface area than the OEM ones.
Well as bad as this outback is. I think they youtube society would love to see you go through all of it. Sounds n looks like there is a lot of lessons here.
Thanks by the way for all you do. I have a few subbies and refer to your great work and advice on repairs. Wish I could afford that sweet TopDon you have. Maybe someday
Maybe I got lucky, but a trakmotive axle fit no problem and has been going for a few years. I do have the roll pin axles though so maybe that helps with fit to some degree.
Might a good candidate for some “how-to” repair videos since there is so much that needs done. Shame to see a clean body go to the junk yard. Loving the videos and your work.
The timing belt sticker is most likely for the original engine, not the replacement.
Have you ever bought one of the used Japanese engines? They ship them over from Japanese suppliers. These are really low mileage engines. Buddy of mine dropped one in his Outback and had really good luck with it.
I have a subaru outback 3.0 liters 6 cylinder year 2001 and its a great car
While it wouldn’t make financial sense, it would be good to see an unloved car returned to good condition. Do a full engine and suspension rebuild and maybe a trans tear down.
The body and interior look nice enough to rescue. A reman engine might be worth it depending on what’s up with the trans. How hard is it to manual swap a Subie?
Wish my 2008 body was in that good a condition here in New York. The salt just destroyed my car. Even with rust proofing. They should never have made that open rocker area. Salt just got up in there and that was all she wrote. 228,000 miles later, original head gaskets and she still runs good. Been watching Mr Subaru now since day one. I follow all maintenance suggestions and still get an average of 28 mpg. I love my Subie. Its been a great car.
That quality of work is why I do my own work. Maybe because of the corrosion they wanted "automatic rust proofing" with the "new" engine?
The BIG problem is junk yards, as standard procedure, knowingly sending people junk engines trying to rip people off, somehow hoping they won't come back, because they can get good money for what should be a core.
I'd just re-seal the engine, including new head gaskets & timing belt, clean things up, and then re-sell it at a decent market value price considering complete re-seal. That way, you get paid a few thousand $$ for not too much of your time doing that. I'd be 100% positive on all mounts, including engine ones, before writing off that transmission, though.
For 2009 it's not so bad, it could be worse. Without a doubt I think that the engine will have to be removed to change gaskets, seals, orings, water pump, thermostats, radiator and fluids, with greater precision.
The only thing good on that car is the blue/silver paint combo. Always liked it. The next-generation didn't carry it forward.
Regarding the rear diff: with that much seepage, what is the source/fix? The rear diff on my '98 is looking quite similar.
But it still ran! Subies are tough; they are the number one selling cars in the state on Maine. My Subie was a 2007 and died at 216,000 miles; I think my mechanic killed it. He should have changed the oil pump instead of the oil pressure switch and the engine spun a rod bearing. I was without a car for months and I live way out in the country. There is a small car dealer and mechanic in my hamlet only 2 miles away and had a 2015 corolla for sale so I bought it. It is a beautiful car, but 2 wheel drive and won't get up my driveway. It is the worse car in snow and mud. My biggest complaint is the ride. I hate how it handles. I miss my subie! Maybe you could save some parts like the intake manifold and such. You rebuild older cars so maybe some of those parts would be useful. I wish you the best with it!
i am in ny but bought a car from evergreen subaru!
Just as a note, the dash might not have been bad when the recall was available.
Great video. Please keep us posted.
This is why I work on my own cars.
Well I mean, it even says "used motor" on the intake snorkel
Call me crazy but a tiny part of me wants to know how much that car will sell for once you reseal the motor and diagnose the transmission. I have a daughter that will be driving in 6 months and would love to stick her in a subaru for a few bucks. A subaru from YOU would be icing on the cake.
you have to maintain any car \ truck no matter who made it.
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with the high miles on it i would just part it out. if its a PZEV car the catalytic converters alone will get you alot of your money back in scrap. pull and reseal the engine and use it in a better car.
1:09 in: Yep, I'm watching as I said I would. Additional videos about it I'll watch as well.
I hate to say it but you got "Hoovied" good on this disaster. It does happen - seems these days there are dishonest scumbags ripping people off on every aspect of life. You've got a great disposition and nature. Very philosophical and I applaud you. I am not so understanding. A flaw in my character.
General Subaru question for drivers in the salt belt states....after market rustproofing something that should be done? I'm considering a Subaru as a next family car and want to ensure it survives the winter environment. I've seen a few Subaru videos where the body sheet metal looks acceptable but the unibody frames are rusted through.
I'm considering purchasing a 2013 outback with 33k original miles. 1 owner. From a dealer. 2.5 four cylinder. Premium. Are there anything I should be concerned about? I appreciate any thoughts
didn't know that my mechanics put an aftermarket front CV in my baja, good to know.
Those aren’t oil leaks, that’s the Vermont anti-rust system.
In my head I hear the old Victory Auto Wreckers jingle going "that old car is worth money!"
John Brown meets Tennessee Ernie Ford and the result is awesome.
Same dealer also has a 2012 Outback 3.6r limited with 97k. They m really attracted to the 33 k miles. But the 3.6r motor with 97k looks pretty darn good as well. Any suggestions?
Geezus I hope you called that shop and gave them a piece of your mind and reported them to the better business bureau.
The underside of this car is *clean* compared to cars in northern Ohio. Looks like a decent project car to me.
Did you ever figure out if they actually changed the timing belt 10k ago?
Also, I think most of us would be interested in watching you fix this car, and you could even have a host of tutorials come out of this car.
I like my GF new 24 cross trek. Fun to drive a big improvement over her 22.
Part it out, my guess is you would make more than the grand on the doors and liftgate . Good luck
If life gives you lemons, make lemonade. Perhaps this car would be a project car to give it a new life? Pull the engine and record a rebuild (do you do that?). Replace the parts that need replacing. Perhaps this can get a new life? Similar to your other projects, but this one is definitely starting from a worse place. I don't know how much these are worth when reconditioned, but it would be "like new" once you are done with it.
Is that tailgate glass aftermarket tinted? 2009's had factory tint, but all other years were clear. I'll bet the VIN on that tailgate doesn't match the car which means the rear got crunched or something similar. It would also explain why that failing clearcoat doesn't match the rest of the car.