Checking into an 05 Outback 3.0R, thoughts?

[Chevydog89]

I don't know much about the Outbacks. It's an 05, with 160,000+ miles for $7000. It's a great looking car, the engine is clean and in very good condition, the inside is in good, but not perfect condition. Outside looks good, hasn't been in any wrecks. The dealership has had it for 4 months, and dropped the price from $8900 to $7000.

 

Anyone have one around this year? What's your thoughts of it?

[danbennett2u]

the 3.0 is generally thought of as a pretty durable engine, plus you get more power than the 2.5 Price seems kind of high for one with 160k miles but I know Indiana is not a hot spot for subarus so your selection is probably minimal.

[idosubaru]

that's a good price and would sell quickly in some markets. it's a great price given the motor that's in it if it's in good condition. the general public doesn't know it but that's a great motor - a premium vehicle in terms of reliability.

 

does the dealer have any service records?

have the spark plugs ever been changed (they are due at 100,000 miles and it's an expensive job)?

 

great engine. they easily make high mileages with little more than oil changes. i have two currently and it was intentional based on the motor. 200,000 on one, 150,000 on another, i'm planning on 300,000 on both.

 

valve cover gaskets, oil cooler gasket, and spark plugs are likely to need replaced at some point, but those are minor maintenance items that any used car of this era will need.

 

i would have a look at what condition the valve cover gaskets and oil cooler gasket is in before buying it, you might be able to get the dealer to repair those at a reduced cost or something now. it will definitely need those at some point.

 

change oil regularly.

 

if it has the same serpentine belt idler pulley issues as the 00-04 (which i believe it does) - have them both repaired immediately. there's a sticky about the issue on subaruoutback.org. it can be repaired in 15 minutes and $10 for two bearings, or $25 for two pulleys off the shelf from the auto parts stores (DAYCO part number posted on that website). very easy repair, just find the threads about it. they fail very often, i'd consider them 60,000 mile or so maintenance items.

[1 Lucky Texan]

^^^ great advice.

 

 

I think if you like the car and it fits your intended use, you don't expect blinding acceleration from a stop or more than 25-26mpg highway, it's a great choice.

 

 

Since you've been watching it, tell them that, then try to get them to throw in a powertrain warranty. Shoot for a year or more, settle for 6 months w'ever.

 

negotiate.

 

If they really feel good about the car's engine and transmission, it won't cost them anything, but could mean a lot to you if you discover torque bind or CV axle/driveshaft vibration later.