Guys, this gentleman is giving you all the ammunition you need to purchase a quality used car. Very detailed instructions for a quality purchase. Bravo my Brother
@@MrSubaru1387 an you get a flat, they give you that little spare. Just a few one hundreds off of OD. What's that size difference do to synchronized system ?
@@tuberem3293 the spare/donut is supposed to be put on the rear and the FWD fuse installed on automatic transmission models. Manual trans, the donut is supposed to go to the rear as well.
I sent this video to my friend last year who was helping her brother buy a 2003 Outback with the 2.5 so that she’d know what to look for. Car passed all the inspection points and even had brand new head gaskets installed before purchase. Got it for a great deal with only 138k miles, and aside from needing a new starter a few weeks ago, it’s been doing them good.
"AUSTRALIA". Hi Mr Subaru, 2007 forester 2.5 serviced my self from new. Just did my first head gasket at 335'000km with the help of your videos, runs like new. Fantastic car and this was the first major problem cylinder 2 miss fire. My last repair was rear suspension and front wheel bearings, everything original, very reliable. Keep up the good work mate, helped me heaps. Hope I get another 300 +
Climate control got me one time. It wasn’t a Subaru. But one side of the defrost blowed hot air and the other side was ice cold, car didn’t have dual climate control. Had to replace the whole heater box underneath the dash. The complete dash had to be removed down to the firewall to remove heater box. Always something to consider. If I hadn’t done it myself it would have been well over a $1000 to take it to a shop. Great video.
My God man, This is so fracking helpful! I've work in surgery now retired, I'm the guy you guys laugh at because they know don't know much about car's! Lol... So thank you this is VERY HELPFUL!!! Thank you Sir....
Another good brake check on a test drive is to lightly hold the steering wheel while applying the foot brake firmly. If the car pulls left or right it could indicate a seized caliper piston and/or worn or defective brake pads/discs. Needs to be done in a safe manner, preferably on a level clear road as the road camber can also influence the ride.
Thank you for posting this video. I’m in the process of buying a used Subaru and this has been very helpful. Unfortunately everything in my budget is over 100k miles and has at least one thing wrong with it. So now I’m trying to weigh my options, and trying to decide which car will have the best longevity after the initial repairs. I’d love to see more videos for owners who want to be informed and proactive with maintenance but aren’t mechanics. Like explaining what sights/symptoms to look for, what it could be, what could happen if repair are put off, and what to talk to your mechanic about.
change your oil at 3,000 miles. Thats like subaru commandment,more so than my old firebird. Also spark plugs go faster in my wrx compared to the pontiac. Also as soon as possible,add a air oil seperator to your Subi!!!! I know hard not to but dont drive the hell out of it everywhere you go. The car feels like it begs you to do so and you have to resist sometimes.I was a american muscle type guy,till I ended up in a wrx.Within a month of owning it,I am a subaru fan for life! I cant even pass another subi withhout the subi wave going down.It might not seem like it but that wave leads to new friends,and a brotherhood/sisterhood feeling that is worth the price by itself!
Kathleen. You'll be pleased with the car. I have MS and osteo-arthrits of both shoulders requiring joint replacement. I traded in a 2019 Camry for a Crosstrek and do not regret it. Everything is easily reachable, the car is safe and easy to work on. I wish you nothing but the best. This is my third Subaru and they do things right.
Hey, Mr. Subaru! Last week, I did a transmission service and front and rear differential service, on my 2011 Tribeca, with 100k miles, changing it's fluids. I did it as preventive maintenance, but surprisingly, the gear shifting is more responsive and the ride is smoother. Thanks a lot for your videos!
Another inspection strategy is to use your Nose to check if there is any burning oil smell from the engine area or the rear. Do this after a test drive. Common failures on a Subaru are rocker cover gaskets which causes oil to drop onto the exhaust or other hot parts and this causes a burning oil smell which can only be rectified by replacing the oil seals.
Here, I better pause this and write that down ‼️‼️ I'm a 60-year-old woman I don't have a clue but I sure am willing to learn... I understand that writing things down and checking off the list is the way to make sure you checked it all 👍 Can't take you enough for your experience and knowledge I am definitely going to check everything that I possibly can... Going to make a list and checking it tight 👍👍🤕🤣😂🙏🙏💖
Just an FYI for anyone buying any used car, don't rely soley on car fax and other similar services. There are ways for those reports to be washed especially when a vehicle is shown with multiple owners from multiple states. If a deal seems to good to be true, walk in my opinion unless it's family or a very very good trusted friend. Thanks for the video. With a discerning eye, collision damage can be easily spotted. Most shops get sloppy on the fine details so they can save a few bucks or pennies per job. Really bad repair jobs can be spotted a mile away. If a person has little car knowledge, have your local trusted mechanic go over the car and pay if there is a small fee, it's worth it. If the seller refuses if you request this, walk.
@Adam B I agree but I personally avoid cars that have been in accidents. It also depends on the severity of the accident and if front end or rear end accient.
To your list and from actual car inspections I've done, I'd add: 1 Beware the hornet's nest living in the driver's side door. 2 Seriously, has anyone ever opened the hood on a cheap used car and not found a rodent's nest on the intake manifold? And seriously, who would want to buy a car that isn't even good enough for rodents to want to live in or rats have already abandoned? On older cars with dead batteries, rodent's usually chew the wires. They don't much like the taste of oil and grease and they don't get that 12 volt buzz, but on new cars where those wires taste like fresh rubber your likely to be needing some soldering. 3 When you find the engine compartment stuffed with plastic bags, there's for sure an opossum somewhere under the hood. He might look dead, but for sure he ain't. Just close the hood softly and walk away for about half an hour and when you come back he'll be gone. Note: unlike rodents opossums don't usually eat wires or hoses, they just kind of live there. Just pull out all of the plastic bags and you're set to go. Lastly, don't ever forget to be kind to the vermin living in your new car as you evict them, remember they likely saved you a whole lot of money off the purchase price.
I know i'm 3 years late to this video but i really wish you would produce more content for the older Subaru models. LIke the Early Legacy 1989-94; and maybe even the 1980's DL sedan and wagon. Those older models have such a great charm to them that the newer models lack in my honest opinion. You're the premier guru for Subaru repairs and i absolutely love your channel.
The very first test, before any of the other valuable information is even considered, is to open the door in the afternoon sun and smell the interior. All cars have some kind of smell, but if it really stinks, don't even bother with anything else. Just politely close the door and walk away. Usually a bad smelling interior is just the tip of the neglect iceberg. I've done this several times and it's served me well.
I've owned 3 Subarus. We love them in the snowbelt of East Tennessee, Western North Carolina and South West Virginia. I literally can 🚶 step into 3 states at the same time. I miss the simplicity of the nonturbo 80s model. I do appreciate the engine accessibility of belts and components! I do stay away from cvt/automatic transmissions. Thanks for this comprehensive video!
Dude Eastern Tennessee, North Carolina and West Virginia don't come together at one point. The state of Virginia is between those three so i'm not sure how you're stepping into each state at the same time. Go check a map dude.
@@klwthe3rdI'll make a correction. I'm referring to the state of Virginia not West Virginia. To be more exact, the southwest end of the state which boarders Tennessee and North Carolina.
Thanks for the vid, very interesting. One thing I do is take a torch. Helps you see properly, and has encouraged salesmen to offer up a few things I might find, before I do.
Excellent. This is particularly so if buying privately or from a used car lot rather than a Subaru dealer who you would expect to put things right or give you a short warranty
I bought a 2013 Impreza from a family friend last year. Car is in excellent shape and only had 60,000 miles/98,000km on it. Besides the power steering lines having to be replaced when I first bought the car, it hasn't given me any other trouble and has been the best car I've owned. Looked at it following tips like this and got a second opinion. Also got a great deal on it!
You're so wise, and this video is timeless and phenomenal! I'm going to shop tomorrow for a used Subaru ata used car dealer. I wrote everything down. Thank you so much!❤
You might be interested to know, I bought the 2015 Subaru Forester Limited, with a technology package the car is a one owner, serviced at the dealer in North Bay, Ontario. Service was performed to the schedule provided by Subaru Canada. I pick it up mid-week. Very excited! Thanks again for the education you provide to the Subaru community, worldwide.
You are so thorough and so awesome I give you 10 plus stars!!! As a woman trying to figure this stuff out I really really really appreciate it ‼️💯❤️❤️❤️💕🙏🙏🙏
Thank you Mr.Subaru , my first car was an new 2020 Xv classic , and now I’m thinking on buying another Subaru this time used ( B4 ) , i definitely learned a lot on Subaru’s from your videos and I will use the information you taught me here before buying my next Subaru , I’m a big fan of Subaru’s since childhood . Thank you sir .
I really liked my '86 wagon - my first new car. The chassis rusted out and just became too dangerous. That was a real kick in the pants. I was told they used recycled steel and didn't have weep holes in the tubular chassis. The front knuckle disappeared.
I love your 2002 Outback. I have the JDM '98 Legacy B4 sedan version of your car and i want that generation wagon. I am happy to come across your channel.
I'm getting a new (used) propshaft fitted this week on my Outback, new centre bearing too. Subaru don't have any, would need to back order could take some time. Front and rear have different tyres. Same two on the front, and same two on the back, will probably just spend the £300 and get the new tyres to match, as the fronts haven't been on long. Great video, and I bet the car sales men hate you! Hahahaha
Thank you for the lengthy video.. very much appreciated.. I already own a 2000 s turbo forester and am very happy with it indeed .. I need to do some work and your info helps in diagnostics. If ever you get time to do a second gen forester video I shall be watching.. many thanks from the French alps
Key phrase, IT TAKES YEARS OF TRAINING. Dealership let me take the car on my own to test drive. I can't have someone trying to talk to me, like you said. And I promise if it's out of any warranty, it's going to get driven like it was stolen. I need schooled in looking for body damage. I completely agree, look under the hood at the weld seams, especially around the strut mounts. Also,pull the carpet up in the trunk and check seams. The salesman was honest about an accident, but never believe a CarFax. I feel better about the 4k I put in mine after seeing the 06 Baja with 181,000 mi for $8200. As you mentioned, nobody sells a car that's problem free. That's the surest sign to run if a seller (out of warranty), has a list of parts recently put on and, just doesn't need it anymore... The crime of a used car salesman.
Thank you for this. Wish I'd seen it a few months ago. Bought a Subaru baja with low miles, but thats where the good things ended. I didnt know what I was doing and the sales men was a scuzz, lied through his teeth. cracked head, chronic rust, bad boot, and burnt transmission. Doing my research on round two
Thank you for this.I want to go look at a 2003 Forester with 135000 miles on it and a replaced head gasket. This gives me a better idea of what to look for and hopefully talk the price down a little. It seems a bit on the high side.
Amazing Information! Very well explained, I took note carefully, I'm looking for my first Subaru, probably a forester 2003. I feel more confident to go for an inspection! Thank you so much for your help!
I just bought a certified Preowned and it went through a 152 point check by the technichian, AND then by the service manager... And I agree, it has more of a warranty than if I had gone new!
The tires at the beginning of the inspection is a real breaker for me alone, I wouldn't have the budget to replace all 4 tires at the same time. Thank you for telling us about that
On body shop issues, also check for scoring/tool marks on the bolts especially the painted bolts on the fenders, hoods, and lift gates. You'd be surprised how many dealers Ive pissed off doing that.
Solid gold. I’m looking among 05-09 Legacy/Outback, I’m a mechanic but no Subaru time, big thanks for filling in the gaps. You really covered Everything👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
This was great I’m checking out a 2010 Forester tomorrow I took detailed notes and made a checklist of everything you showed I will have it with me and go through it. Thank you! Liked and Subscribed 👍🏾
I believe the used car evaluation should begin with the engine dead cold in order to hear the first moments of engine operation. Also, a cold engine is easier to inspect.
About to drive 5 hours to inspect a 2011 Impreza outback sport w 36k miles.. wish me luck! She seems perfect, I just hope her insides aren’t destroyed!
36:15 Last car I sold had a check engine light on for an O2 Sensor, I didn't have time to replace. My code reader could save codes as a Pdf so I done that and sent/showed to potential buyers!
I'm buying a 2004 Impreza 2.5ts for $4,500. It only has 100,000 miles, so I am weary due to the cost. I will definitely use this. The coolant tank and under body inspection looks important.
04 wagon owner here: absolutely get the head gasket done if affordable, new belts never hurt. Change oil every 3-4k miles, 3k being preferred, and don’t dog it, she’s a bit sluggish in her old age
As always, great tutorials and appreciate your informative videos. I'm about to use these tips on a 2003 Legacy wagon that I'll be taking a look at today.
I bought a 1998 Legacy GT Limited, while it's a bit rusty, and was re-sprayed (not very well though, plenty of orange peel in the paint) but it should be able to get me from A to B.
Hello MrSubaru1387 Considering on getting a my first Subaru. An Outback, and this guide and your channel have been very helpful! 1. Any major issues with the FB2.5 engine from 2013-up?
Not replacing parts. It's not only following the "If it's not broke, don't fix it" philosophy, but they don't fall into that same mistake the Big 3 do, by redesigning parts to make them slightly lighter and cheaper--causing a lot of unforeseen component failures. Yep, regarding tires, I had 4 Contis on my 2011 OB and one caught a nail and they were 4/32's off so I gave them to a local garage and replace them with Michelin LTS light truck tires. They weight a few pounds more and you can notice the rotational lag when coming off the line, but I'll never go back to Contis.
I've owned 95,97 Legacy wagons, 2000,2008 Outbacks, and just bought a 2020 Forester. I change the oil every 3,000 miles and run them to 200,000 miles. The only major problem I've had has been blown head gaskets.
@Preacher Teacher Most common failures include the 2.5 Liter SOHC engine used in the late 1999-2004, After 2009, newer models using the EL25 2.5-liter engine should have far fewer head gasket problems because Subaru started using a multi-layered steel cylinder-head gasket. Starting in 2012, Subaru redesigned the 2.5-liter engine in the Forester and Outback and has fixed the problem
@Preacher Teacher Yes as long as the Subaru is 2010-2023. In our shop, there are two separate groups or years of production that have head gasket problems: 1) 1st generation 2.5l engine found predominantly in the 1996 to 1999 Outback, Legacy G.T., Forrester (up to mid-year 1998) and Subaru Impreza R.S. This group usually, will develop an internal head gasket leak ultimately resulting with an overheating engine. 2) 2nd generation Subaru 2.2l and 2.5l engines found in the Forrester from mid-year 1998, Impreza from mid-year 1998, the Outback and Legacy from 2000.The early symptoms that occur in the 2nd generation engines is usually an external oil leak at both head gaskets and an external coolant leak at the left side head gasket.
@Preacher Teacher Be aware that if you get a flat tire and the spare differs from the other 3 tires, pull the AWD fuse as the differential could be ruined by driving on a spare that differs from 3 other tires, especially if the spare differs substantially like a donut spare tire.
@@RBrothersKeeperdonuts should go on the non-power wheels actually. In most sedans and wagons that'll be the back, including Subarus after you pull the AWD fuse as said. If you had a RWD car it would be good to put it on the front though
Sawat Dii (Hello) from the island of Phuket in SW Thailand. Thanks for posting this video. I've been driving a 2014 "Volvo V40 T5 (5 Cylinder Turbo) Cross Country" with 42,000km here in Thailand for the past 10 years. Great car.....no plans to ever to sell. Problem is....... my 3 year old Golden Retriever has outgrown it and needs a larger ride. Looking at all the info I can get on the 2015/16 Subaru XV and Forester......for my dog. Your visual inspection and presentation was reminiscent of doing a pre-flight inspection of helicopters I was assigned to fly during the course of my 40yr career..... mostly in the Abu Dhabi. All info was greatly appreciated. Good work.
I'll soon be driving 1 1/2 hours to look at an '08 Impreza hatch to purchase. As usual, it looks good on the interwebs, but I thank you for your insights in this and a few other of your vdjo's I've just gone through to help be informed in what to look for. Subscribed and bell'd as I hope to be a new Scuby owner and will be seeking further insight & wisdom. Thanks!
Thank you so much! This video is extremely helpful! I have loved your videos for some time now and I am about to purchase an 07 forester. I plan to do all of these things before I buy. Thank you again for giving me the tools to know what to look and listen for
Very Good, Mr Subaru is dead on about getting down on the ground and checking the sub-frame. Even if you live in the South. Used vehicles are often moved around the country.
I recently had a mechanic look at my accord to determine if it was worth fixing I wish he had been as thorough as this and at the end the answer wasnt very conclusive I dont mind paying but I want people to provide value
Hi MrSubaru! Really helpful videos mate. We are looking in to getting either 2013 or 2016 Forester. Based on these issues. Which year model is better? Thank you.
I'm watching this while driving my 230k miles 02 outback that I bought because it had a manual and every 100 miles the check engine light comes on then goes off but she's been pushing great aside from an occasional backfire
Thank you Mr. Subaru for your great efforts. I have 2 Subaru Outbacks(2018 and 2020) in the family, do you know of any modern good code readers that I can buy and won't break the bank? God bless you.
Such great information. Thank you. Looked at a 2006 that had loud exhaust. Told me all they could get was aftermarket exhaust.🤔Also said hot smell and oil smell was from former,repaired leaks. For $5k, 167k miles, I passed.
I have a weird thing on my 2011 OB 2.5i, regarding electronics. The Channel tuner and Volume control Increase stop working (volume decrease works) until I press the Mute button, then they'll work for a while and then stop working again until the next time I press Mute.
Guys, this gentleman is giving you all the ammunition you need to purchase a quality used car. Very detailed instructions for a quality purchase. Bravo my Brother
Free too.. some people actually pay for this information ❤
This is almost a public service. Very thorough. 👍🏽
Thank you!
time spent live and this , very impressive. now its not only Mr but also MD Subaru.
Big Facts
@@MrSubaru1387 an you get a flat, they give you that little spare. Just a few one hundreds off of OD. What's that size difference do to synchronized system ?
@@tuberem3293 the spare/donut is supposed to be put on the rear and the FWD fuse installed on automatic transmission models. Manual trans, the donut is supposed to go to the rear as well.
I sent this video to my friend last year who was helping her brother buy a 2003 Outback with the 2.5 so that she’d know what to look for. Car passed all the inspection points and even had brand new head gaskets installed before purchase. Got it for a great deal with only 138k miles, and aside from needing a new starter a few weeks ago, it’s been doing them good.
@Preacher Teacher They’re in Northern California, so no worries about rust.
Happy for you!
"AUSTRALIA". Hi Mr Subaru, 2007 forester 2.5 serviced my self from new. Just did my first head gasket at 335'000km
with the help of your videos, runs like new. Fantastic car and this was the first major problem cylinder 2 miss fire.
My last repair was rear suspension and front wheel bearings, everything original, very reliable. Keep up the good work mate, helped me heaps. Hope I get another 300 +
Climate control got me one time. It wasn’t a Subaru. But one side of the defrost blowed hot air and the other side was ice cold, car didn’t have dual climate control. Had to replace the whole heater box underneath the dash. The complete dash had to be removed down to the firewall to remove heater box. Always something to consider. If I hadn’t done it myself it would have been well over a $1000 to take it to a shop. Great video.
My God man, This is so fracking helpful! I've work in surgery now retired, I'm the guy you guys laugh at because they know don't know much about car's! Lol... So thank you this is VERY HELPFUL!!! Thank you Sir....
Another good brake check on a test drive is to lightly hold the steering wheel while applying the foot brake firmly. If the car pulls left or right it could indicate a seized caliper piston and/or worn or defective brake pads/discs. Needs to be done in a safe manner, preferably on a level clear road as the road camber can also influence the ride.
Thank you for posting this video. I’m in the process of buying a used Subaru and this has been very helpful. Unfortunately everything in my budget is over 100k miles and has at least one thing wrong with it. So now I’m trying to weigh my options, and trying to decide which car will have the best longevity after the initial repairs. I’d love to see more videos for owners who want to be informed and proactive with maintenance but aren’t mechanics. Like explaining what sights/symptoms to look for, what it could be, what could happen if repair are put off, and what to talk to your mechanic about.
change your oil at 3,000 miles. Thats like subaru commandment,more so than my old firebird. Also spark plugs go faster in my wrx compared to the pontiac. Also as soon as possible,add a air oil seperator to your Subi!!!! I know hard not to but dont drive the hell out of it everywhere you go. The car feels like it begs you to do so and you have to resist sometimes.I was a american muscle type guy,till I ended up in a wrx.Within a month of owning it,I am a subaru fan for life! I cant even pass another subi withhout the subi wave going down.It might not seem like it but that wave leads to new friends,and a brotherhood/sisterhood feeling that is worth the price by itself!
Kathleen. You'll be pleased with the car. I have MS and osteo-arthrits of both shoulders requiring joint replacement. I traded in a 2019 Camry for a Crosstrek and do not regret it. Everything is easily reachable, the car is safe and easy to work on. I wish you nothing but the best. This is my third Subaru and they do things right.
100k is just broken in if well maintained
Hey, Mr. Subaru! Last week, I did a transmission service and front and rear differential service, on my 2011 Tribeca, with 100k miles, changing it's fluids. I did it as preventive maintenance, but surprisingly, the gear shifting is more responsive and the ride is smoother. Thanks a lot for your videos!
You're welcome 👍🏻
Another inspection strategy is to use your Nose to check if there is any burning oil smell from the engine area or the rear. Do this after a test drive. Common failures on a Subaru are rocker cover gaskets which causes oil to drop onto the exhaust or other hot parts and this causes a burning oil smell which can only be rectified by replacing the oil seals.
The information is why I came, the accent is why I stayed. Thanks for the detailed info
Here, I better pause this and write that down ‼️‼️
I'm a 60-year-old woman I don't have a clue but I sure am willing to learn...
I understand that writing things down and checking off the list is the way to make sure you checked it all 👍
Can't take you enough for your experience and knowledge I am definitely going to check everything that I possibly can...
Going to make a list and checking it tight 👍👍🤕🤣😂🙏🙏💖
A very comprehensive and thorough inspection regimen that any layperson can do.
A million thanks, MrSubaru1387.
You're welcome. 👍🏻
Just an FYI for anyone buying any used car, don't rely soley on car fax and other similar services. There are ways for those reports to be washed especially when a vehicle is shown with multiple owners from multiple states. If a deal seems to good to be true, walk in my opinion unless it's family or a very very good trusted friend. Thanks for the video. With a discerning eye, collision damage can be easily spotted. Most shops get sloppy on the fine details so they can save a few bucks or pennies per job. Really bad repair jobs can be spotted a mile away. If a person has little car knowledge, have your local trusted mechanic go over the car and pay if there is a small fee, it's worth it. If the seller refuses if you request this, walk.
@Adam B I agree but I personally avoid cars that have been in accidents. It also depends on the severity of the accident and if front end or rear end accient.
To your list and from actual car inspections I've done, I'd add:
1 Beware the hornet's nest living in the driver's side door.
2 Seriously, has anyone ever opened the hood on a cheap used car and not found a rodent's nest on the intake manifold? And seriously, who would want to buy a car that isn't even good enough for rodents to want to live in or rats have already abandoned? On older cars with dead batteries, rodent's usually chew the wires. They don't much like the taste of oil and grease and they don't get that 12 volt buzz, but on new cars where those wires taste like fresh rubber your likely to be needing some soldering.
3 When you find the engine compartment stuffed with plastic bags, there's for sure an opossum somewhere under the hood. He might look dead, but for sure he ain't. Just close the hood softly and walk away for about half an hour and when you come back he'll be gone. Note: unlike rodents opossums don't usually eat wires or hoses, they just kind of live there. Just pull out all of the plastic bags and you're set to go.
Lastly, don't ever forget to be kind to the vermin living in your new car as you evict them, remember they likely saved you a whole lot of money off the purchase price.
HAHAHAHA! I've received those odd looks from salesmen before. They've found me laying on the ground looking under a vehicle more than once.
I know i'm 3 years late to this video but i really wish you would produce more content for the older Subaru models. LIke the Early Legacy 1989-94; and maybe even the 1980's DL sedan and wagon. Those older models have such a great charm to them that the newer models lack in my honest opinion. You're the premier guru for Subaru repairs and i absolutely love your channel.
I am not one to ever leave comments on vidoes but I must thank you for this video. Truly appreciate it and thank you so much!
The very first test, before any of the other valuable information is even considered, is to open the door in the afternoon sun and smell the interior. All cars have some kind of smell, but if it really stinks, don't even bother with anything else. Just politely close the door and walk away. Usually a bad smelling interior is just the tip of the neglect iceberg. I've done this several times and it's served me well.
I've owned 3 Subarus. We love them in the snowbelt of East Tennessee, Western North Carolina and South West Virginia. I literally can 🚶 step into 3 states at the same time. I miss the simplicity of the nonturbo 80s model. I do appreciate the engine accessibility of belts and components! I do stay away from cvt/automatic transmissions. Thanks for this comprehensive video!
Are you driving a manual version?
Dude Eastern Tennessee, North Carolina and West Virginia don't come together at one point. The state of Virginia is between those three so i'm not sure how you're stepping into each state at the same time. Go check a map dude.
@@klwthe3rdI'll make a correction. I'm referring to the state of Virginia not West Virginia. To be more exact, the southwest end of the state which boarders Tennessee and North Carolina.
WOW! Your video concrete's what my father taught me 40 years ago, what a great video! Thank you for posting, excellent advice!
Thanks for the vid, very interesting. One thing I do is take a torch. Helps you see properly, and has encouraged salesmen to offer up a few things I might find, before I do.
You must b from England. We call them flashlights in America.
Excellent. This is particularly so if buying privately or from a used car lot rather than a Subaru dealer who you would expect to put things right or give you a short warranty
I bought a 2013 Impreza from a family friend last year. Car is in excellent shape and only had 60,000 miles/98,000km on it. Besides the power steering lines having to be replaced when I first bought the car, it hasn't given me any other trouble and has been the best car I've owned. Looked at it following tips like this and got a second opinion. Also got a great deal on it!
You're so wise, and this video is timeless and phenomenal! I'm going to shop tomorrow for a used Subaru ata used car dealer. I wrote everything down. Thank you so much!❤
I always bring on old rug or cardboard to craw under used cars..... because that`s all I buy!
This video is so well crafted it's like listening to the Mozart of car stewardship.
Wow, hats off to you Mr. Subaru. Such a detailed narration about the car. You are brilliant. Thank you.
I am test driving a 2015 Forester tomorrow. This video will be very helpful in reviewing the car. Thank you!
You might be interested to know, I bought the 2015 Subaru Forester Limited, with a technology package the car is a one owner, serviced at the dealer in North Bay, Ontario. Service was performed to the schedule provided by Subaru Canada. I pick it up mid-week. Very excited! Thanks again for the education you provide to the Subaru community, worldwide.
You are so thorough and so awesome I give you 10 plus stars!!!
As a woman trying to figure this stuff out I really really really appreciate it ‼️💯❤️❤️❤️💕🙏🙏🙏
Thank you Mr.Subaru , my first car was an new 2020 Xv classic , and now I’m thinking on buying another Subaru this time used ( B4 ) , i definitely learned a lot on Subaru’s from your videos and I will use the information you taught me here before buying my next Subaru , I’m a big fan of Subaru’s since childhood . Thank you sir .
I really liked my '86 wagon - my first new car. The chassis rusted out and just became too dangerous. That was a real kick in the pants. I was told they used recycled steel and didn't have weep holes in the tubular chassis. The front knuckle disappeared.
I love your 2002 Outback. I have the JDM '98 Legacy B4 sedan version of your car and i want that generation wagon. I am happy to come across your channel.
Very very useful info... No other video exists like this on RUclips about Subaru's...
That was one super great overview on the Subaru! Thank you for sharing your experience on the Subaru I learned a lot in a very short time.
Glad you enjoyed it!
This video could have saved me $1350 if I had seen it 3 months ago..
I'm getting a new (used) propshaft fitted this week on my Outback, new centre bearing too. Subaru don't have any, would need to back order could take some time. Front and rear have different tyres. Same two on the front, and same two on the back, will probably just spend the £300 and get the new tyres to match, as the fronts haven't been on long. Great video, and I bet the car sales men hate you! Hahahaha
Thank you for the lengthy video.. very much appreciated.. I already own a 2000 s turbo forester and am very happy with it indeed .. I need to do some work and your info helps in diagnostics. If ever you get time to do a second gen forester video I shall be watching.. many thanks from the French alps
Key phrase, IT TAKES YEARS OF TRAINING. Dealership let me take the car on my own to test drive. I can't have someone trying to talk to me, like you said. And I promise if it's out of any warranty, it's going to get driven like it was stolen. I need schooled in looking for body damage. I completely agree, look under the hood at the weld seams, especially around the strut mounts. Also,pull the carpet up in the trunk and check seams. The salesman was honest about an accident, but never believe a CarFax. I feel better about the 4k I put in mine after seeing the 06 Baja with 181,000 mi for $8200. As you mentioned, nobody sells a car that's problem free. That's the surest sign to run if a seller (out of warranty), has a list of parts recently put on and, just doesn't need it anymore... The crime of a used car salesman.
Thanks man for this video, really saved me from costly repairs! Only thing on my 2009 forester was getting that stretch belt back on, what a pain!!
It's always a pleasure watching your videos; they're filled with useful information and insights.
Thank you so much!
You're welcome. 👍🏻
Thank you for this. Wish I'd seen it a few months ago. Bought a Subaru baja with low miles, but thats where the good things ended. I didnt know what I was doing and the sales men was a scuzz, lied through his teeth. cracked head, chronic rust, bad boot, and burnt transmission. Doing my research on round two
Very good video... Excellent tips! This guy knows what he's talking about.
Thank you for this.I want to go look at a 2003 Forester with 135000 miles on it and a replaced head gasket. This gives me a better idea of what to look for and hopefully talk the price down a little. It seems a bit on the high side.
Amazing Information! Very well explained, I took note carefully, I'm looking for my first Subaru, probably a forester 2003. I feel more confident to go for an inspection! Thank you so much for your help!
I just bought a certified Preowned and it went through a 152 point check by the technichian, AND then by the service manager... And I agree, it has more of a warranty than if I had gone new!
The tires at the beginning of the inspection is a real breaker for me alone, I wouldn't have the budget to replace all 4 tires at the same time. Thank you for telling us about that
Jesus then don’t buy a car
You make working on Subarus seem fun ! Which it is ! Thanks
On body shop issues, also check for scoring/tool marks on the bolts especially the painted bolts on the fenders, hoods, and lift gates. You'd be surprised how many dealers Ive pissed off doing that.
Solid gold. I’m looking among 05-09 Legacy/Outback, I’m a mechanic but no Subaru time, big thanks for filling in the gaps. You really covered Everything👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
I just bought a 05.
Did you find one?
If yes any feedback?
Mr Sub is well worth the longwinded drawl. Realistic, detailed, my kind of forensic snoopster.
This was great I’m checking out a 2010 Forester tomorrow I took detailed notes and made a checklist of everything you showed I will have it with me and go through it. Thank you!
Liked and Subscribed 👍🏾
I believe the used car evaluation should begin with the engine dead cold in order to hear the first moments of engine operation. Also, a cold engine is easier to inspect.
Thank you so much for this very in depth and detailed inspection process on a used Subaru!!!
What a great review of buying a used vehicle!
About to drive 5 hours to inspect a 2011 Impreza outback sport w 36k miles.. wish me luck! She seems perfect, I just hope her insides aren’t destroyed!
36:15 Last car I sold had a check engine light on for an O2 Sensor, I didn't have time to replace. My code reader could save codes as a Pdf so I done that and sent/showed to potential buyers!
I'm buying a 2004 Impreza 2.5ts for $4,500. It only has 100,000 miles, so I am weary due to the cost. I will definitely use this. The coolant tank and under body inspection looks important.
04 wagon owner here: absolutely get the head gasket done if affordable, new belts never hurt. Change oil every 3-4k miles, 3k being preferred, and don’t dog it, she’s a bit sluggish in her old age
As always, great tutorials and appreciate your informative videos. I'm about to use these tips on a 2003 Legacy wagon that I'll be taking a look at today.
I bought a 1998 Legacy GT Limited, while it's a bit rusty, and was re-sprayed (not very well though, plenty of orange peel in the paint) but it should be able to get me from A to B.
Brilliant, very useful tutorial for any purchase.
I fully resealed a 3.0 h6.
Front case with 80 bolts on it. Its st 380k kms now. Changed every rubber joint/ gasket on it at 220k kms
Professor Subaru, great videos as always!
A well done overview from a knowledgable man. 🎉
Thank you for the information, I'm in the process of getting a used outback.
Hello MrSubaru1387
Considering on getting a my first Subaru. An Outback, and this guide and your channel have been very helpful!
1. Any major issues with the FB2.5 engine from 2013-up?
great video, thank you Mr Subaru and greetings from Club Subaru Peru 😎
Brilliant! I think I'll make myself a checklist based on your video for the next time I go car shopping.
This is great. I'm looking at 2018 Outback 3.6r, so this thorough video helps tremendously. Thanks!
Not replacing parts. It's not only following the "If it's not broke, don't fix it" philosophy, but they don't fall into that same mistake the Big 3 do, by redesigning parts to make them slightly lighter and cheaper--causing a lot of unforeseen component failures. Yep, regarding tires, I had 4 Contis on my 2011 OB and one caught a nail and they were 4/32's off so I gave them to a local garage and replace them with Michelin LTS light truck tires. They weight a few pounds more and you can notice the rotational lag when coming off the line, but I'll never go back to Contis.
I've owned 95,97 Legacy wagons, 2000,2008 Outbacks, and just bought a 2020 Forester. I change the oil every 3,000 miles and run them to 200,000 miles. The only major problem I've had has been blown head gaskets.
@Preacher Teacher Most common failures include the 2.5 Liter SOHC engine used in the late 1999-2004, After 2009, newer models using the EL25 2.5-liter engine should have far fewer head gasket problems because Subaru started using a multi-layered steel cylinder-head gasket. Starting in 2012, Subaru redesigned the 2.5-liter engine in the Forester and Outback and has fixed the problem
@Preacher Teacher Yes as long as the Subaru is 2010-2023. In our shop, there are two separate groups or years of production that have head gasket problems: 1) 1st generation 2.5l engine found predominantly in the 1996 to 1999 Outback, Legacy G.T., Forrester (up to mid-year 1998) and Subaru Impreza R.S. This group usually, will develop an internal head gasket leak ultimately resulting with an overheating engine.
2) 2nd generation Subaru 2.2l and 2.5l engines found in the Forrester from mid-year 1998, Impreza from mid-year 1998, the Outback and Legacy from 2000.The early symptoms that occur in the 2nd generation engines is usually an external oil leak at both head gaskets and an external coolant leak at the left side head gasket.
@Preacher Teacher Be aware that if you get a flat tire and the spare differs from the other 3 tires, pull the AWD fuse as the differential could be ruined by driving on a spare that differs from 3 other tires, especially if the spare differs substantially like a donut spare tire.
@@RBrothersKeeperdonuts should go on the non-power wheels actually. In most sedans and wagons that'll be the back, including Subarus after you pull the AWD fuse as said. If you had a RWD car it would be good to put it on the front though
Looking to pick up a 07 legacy gt this week. Glad I came across this video 👍🏾
Should’ve added to bring a extendable mirror & bright flashlight.
Yes! Thought about that in editing it.
Sawat Dii (Hello) from the island of Phuket in SW Thailand.
Thanks for posting this video. I've been driving a 2014 "Volvo V40 T5 (5 Cylinder Turbo) Cross Country" with 42,000km here in Thailand for the past 10 years. Great car.....no plans to ever to sell. Problem is....... my 3 year old Golden Retriever has outgrown it and needs a larger ride. Looking at all the info I can get on the 2015/16 Subaru XV and Forester......for my dog.
Your visual inspection and presentation was reminiscent of doing a pre-flight inspection of helicopters I was assigned to fly during the course of my 40yr career..... mostly in the Abu Dhabi. All info was greatly appreciated. Good work.
Q we q
Q
This is exactly the video I was looking for!! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!
I'll soon be driving 1 1/2 hours to look at an '08 Impreza hatch to purchase. As usual, it looks good on the interwebs, but I thank you for your insights in this and a few other of your vdjo's I've just gone through to help be informed in what to look for. Subscribed and bell'd as I hope to be a new Scuby owner and will be seeking further insight & wisdom. Thanks!
Thank you so much! This video is extremely helpful! I have loved your videos for some time now and I am about to purchase an 07 forester. I plan to do all of these things before I buy. Thank you again for giving me the tools to know what to look and listen for
Awesome, will use this info to get a 4th gen subaru outback soon...
Those JDM headlights 👍
Thanks, good video to keep this information fresh in my mind, thinking about purchasing another Subaru for a project car ☮️
Very Good, Mr Subaru is dead on about getting down on the ground and checking the sub-frame. Even if you live in the South. Used vehicles are often moved around the country.
I recently had a mechanic look at my accord to determine if it was worth fixing I wish he had been as thorough as this and at the end the answer wasnt very conclusive
I dont mind paying but I want people to provide value
Super informative. Thanks for the great information. I already feel more confident before going to buy my first car.
Hi MrSubaru! Really helpful videos mate. We are looking in to getting either 2013 or 2016 Forester. Based on these issues. Which year model is better? Thank you.
FYI after 2013 on the Legacy they went to electronic power steering, My model 13 still has hydraulic on my 3.6
My current Subaru fails some of these. More notably, the difference in tire brands. But, it's on its way out anyway.
Thank you! Subscribed
I'm watching this while driving my 230k miles 02 outback that I bought because it had a manual and every 100 miles the check engine light comes on then goes off but she's been pushing great aside from an occasional backfire
What a great guide, so thorough and informative. Thanks!
Excellent educational content and video. Now I know what to look for 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
I swear cars are the craziest rupe goldberg machines.
Going in to possibly purchase a used crosstrek today, thanks for the tips!
Thank you Mr. Subaru for your great efforts. I have 2 Subaru Outbacks(2018 and 2020) in the family, do you know of any modern good code readers that I can buy and won't break the bank? God bless you.
Every salesmen is gonna hate this video😂Thanks for the video
Such great information. Thank you. Looked at a 2006 that had loud exhaust. Told me all they could get was aftermarket exhaust.🤔Also said hot smell and oil smell was from former,repaired leaks. For $5k, 167k miles, I passed.
Also the rich exhaust smell worried me. My Town n country needs 1400$ cat conv and smells same.
I have a weird thing on my 2011 OB 2.5i, regarding electronics. The Channel tuner and Volume control Increase stop working (volume decrease works) until I press the Mute button, then they'll work for a while and then stop working again until the next time I press Mute.
Great video! You should offer a used car buying service to people with little to no experience.
Super informative for any used car purchase
Excellent and useful detailed explanation. Many thanks!