What year did the 2.5 improve - looking for a new Sub

[harborseal55]

My sister-in-law is looking for a used (perhaps 1999-2003?) Subaru, probably a Legacy or OB wagon, and asked me for some advice on what to look for. I know that my 96 Legacy with a 2.2/5 spd is a fairly bulletproof combination, but know that more of the newer models have the 2.5, some years of which seem to have head gasket problems.

 

Was the good old 2.2 still available in these newer models (in either 5spd or AT)? Since the 2.5 seems to be more common, are there model years where the 2.5 motors are improved and less likely to have the common head problems?

[Commuter]

The 2.2L engine was still available on some Imprezas and Legacys up to 2001, but most Legacy based vehicles will have the 2.5L.

 

The Phase I 2.5L DOHC engine was used up 98 in the Imprezas and 99 in the Legacys. The Phase II 2.5L SOHC engine became available in the 99 Imprezas and 2000 Legacys. The Phase I is problematic, with it's known penchant for head gasket failures (internal leaks). The Phase II also is less than stellar regarding headgaskets, but it is a less (potentially) damaging external leak. Subaru has started a campaign of using some sort of sealant in the anti-freeze on the Phase II engines.

 

Do a bit of searching a reading. Lots of info.

 

Commuter