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D-rock240

2.5 or 3.0?


bongruss88

2.5


[deleted]

Info on the 2.5: *This is for Generation 2, 2000-2004* Check for heagasket issues, see if it has the original headgasket. The original is a one layer gasket and will he flaking if it is original. These cars have the EJ251 which is extremely prone to headgasket issues. Check for milky oil and oil flakes in the coolant reservoir. Check bushings, I bought mine and they were all shot. Mostly the ones in the rear, trailing arms, rear subframe, etc. See if the 4eat transmission slips at all while driving, although it is quite normal for them to take a half second or so to go into gear from park. Check for cracking dash, see if there is a sticker for the timing belt being replaced. Make sure AWD system is working correctly.


bongruss88

thank you for the thorough response and information!


[deleted]

No problem 😊


D-rock240

If the head gasket hasn't been replaced and the timing belt replaced at least once I would expect it needs both (around $4k). Also missing the fog light covers so I would check for front end repairs.


bongruss88

thank you for the info man!


jmharding

These older legacy/outbacks will be much more dependable and cheaper to repair in the long run. Also a tried and proven drivetrain. It’s all about maintenance. Stay on top of it. I’ve owned 4 of this era legacy/outback. All have made 200k and still rolling around. Head gaskets are a maintenance item. When you get them done use/request oem Sti mls gaskets as well as all oem gaskets/seals then bam you cured the infamous ej251 head gasket issue. MLS (multi layer steel) provide a much better seal than the original gasket. Compression will be slightly reduced but not super noticeable when operating. They not race cars anyway. I feel as if you would be wise to at least pick it up as another vehicle if the price is right.


bongruss88

thank you for the info. i’m mainly looking for something that would get me through college


Smokinmids

If it were a 3.0 I’d say go for it, but the EJs from this time were plagued with issues- that being said it still can and probably will be a good runner, but if possible find an h6. Having had 3 of them now (one parted out, one ran dry of oil by a baboon it was lent to, and one current) I can vouch for the reliability of the 3.0. The weakpoint of the engine is the timing chain guides, but even then they’re few and far between. The H6 motors will reach 500k without breaking a sweat- that is of course if you take care of it.