mostlymustard

Wow, I'm impressed with the involvement of the members of the USMB and the great ideas posted to my thread! The service adviser at Capital Subaru in San Jose told me they heard the knocking in the lower part of the engine, drained the oil, and found metal contamination in the oil. This is the basis of their diagnosis. He also said the engine was a quart over on oil. I'll have to get it towed to another shop (it's recommended that we don't drive it) to get a second opinion, but it sounds like that is the consensus. I'll also give Subaru a call to see what they say. Thanks again for all the great ideas! Albert

Hi All, My Dad has a 2003 Forester XS with 70,120 miles on the original engine. The car started making a noise last week which as been diagnosed by the dealer as rod knock. They are recommending that he get a new short block, a procedure that will cost about $5,700 (including machining the old heads). The short block comes with a 3 year, 36 month warranty. I'm hoping that someone with some Subaru knowledge can help me with the following questions. Do you think there is anything Subaru would do to help (71K seems awfully early for engine failure)? Does this well maintained car have any value to anyone (in its current condition) on the open market? The body is very clean without dents or dings. The dealer mentioned that the engine can be replaced by a used one for about $4,700. It would come with a 6 month warranty. Any other suggestions as to what we may do? It's such a bummer to have this car go out on us like this. We were Subaru fans until this happened. I appreciate your time. Albert