3.6 engine reliable?

[bluebird]

I have owned about 7 Subaru wagons over the years and all had 2.5 engines and most had auto trans. Most have gone somewhere in the 200,000 mile range.  I buy them used at about 100,000 and get rid of them around 200,000.  My current one 2003 outback has 210, 000 on it and needs a timing belt, one axle, and new tires.  So I think it is time to move on.  I need some experts advice.  I'm looking at a 2011 with a 3.6 and and auto trans. with 93,000 asking 10 grand. Is the 3.6 a reliable engine?  does it have head gasket problems.  Do all 3.6 have timing chain rather than a belt.  Will this 2011 have a cvt trans.  And any other comments about the 3.6 or the cvt (if it has  one) would be much appreciated. I know the gas mileage won't be as good.

 

Thanks in advance.

[Numbchux]

The 3.6 is a great engine, I wouldn't hesitate for a second to get one (in fact, I'd go quite a bit out of my way...).

 

All the EZ ('01+) 6-cylinders have a timing chain.

 

 

And an '11 with the 3.6 would have the 5EAT, fantastic transmission, too.

[Rooster2]

Have only heard good things about the 3.6. Maybe only negative is that the engine is pretty well crammed in under the hood, so not much room to work on anything.

[bluebird]

Thanks EJ, my father in law has a cabin just north of Grand Marais.  And yes I can see from pics the the engine compartment is pretty crowded.  If the car is still available I'm going to go have a look see.  Seems like it is priced about 4000 under kelley blue book it is a limited. More input welcomed

[wtdash]

Good Site for Subarus..cars101.com

 

And Yes, that does sound cheap for an '11....I'd be doing an Autocheck and/or Carfax.

Edited June 2, 2016 by wtdash

[Caboobaroo]

They often leak oil where the timing chain case, driver head and block all meet. Usually it puddles up right below the AC compressor.