99 Legacy Outback - Overheating Mystery

[dickens]

A few of you had said you'd be interested in an update -- I'm facing a pricey repair here and would appreciate any input you may have. Insurance company has denied claim that unplugged rad fans caused overheating. Subaru has continued to stand by their original statement that the block is cracked -- but when asked how they came to that conclusion (eg did they take engine apart?) they said it's because of exhaust particles (?) found in coolant system, or something to that effect. They have not actually SEEN the crack. But said the presence of the exhaust in the coolant indicates cracked block, and just replacing head gasket would not fix the problem.

 

I still owe on this car, so would really appreciate any advice on how whether Subaru is feeding me a line of *%). Thanks.

 

 

 

 

i doubt they were wrong either about the codes and fans, they were probably right. they were'nt "wrong" about the hairline crack either, they just completely lied or creatively worded it....let me explain so you're educated about your circumstances:

 

about the hairline crack, anyone on this group that has replaced a dozen or more headgaskets themself will tell you that is highly unlikely. i was a little harsh in the last post, but that marketing drives me crazy. they're using a very liberal definition of "engine" to scare this person into a very expensive and unnecessary repair. can you tell dealerships and shops have screwed over my friends and family numerous times in the past? i have not.

 

you may have a serious internal leak and the engine (the long block) is hosed. but the engine (short block) is likely fine. if by "hair line crack in the engine" they mean a "hair line crack in the headgasket", they are probably correct but using a liberal definition to scare you into a very large (and i repeat unnecessary) repair. if by "hair line crack in the engine" they literally mean a "hairline crack in the block casting" they are probably wrong or banking on the %1 chance of that happening (i have yet to ever see it on the any subaru over-heat that i've seen).

 

so i appologize in saying they are straight liars, but they are being very creative in their use of the english language.....at their customers expense. i like being straight forward. if you want to help with their next yatcht payment, then by all means have them replace the motor as it will certainly solve your issues. if you want your car reliably and cost-effectively repaired without supporting those bafoons, then listen to this group. pardon my distrust of dealers or my disapproval of liars.

[dickens]

Thanks, will search right now.

Ms. D

 

Ms. Dickens, your best bet may be to do some research (won't take long). though i know you're new to the forum, it may help to search the Forum for "headgasket" and "cracked block" and see how many responses you can come up with.

 

or start a new thread asking for anyone that has ever personally seen a cracked block due to overheating.

[screwbaru2]

The carbon in the coolant could indicate an internal coolant due to HG failure, it is not solid evidence of a crack. Check the overflow tank for bubbling when the engine is running. Bubbling would indicate an internally leaking HG and/or a cracked head as there is more exhaust gas (hence the carbon) in the commbustion chamber than in the block. The HG maybe leaking externally as well causing the spots on the driveway.

If they insist on replacing the engine I would insist on 2.2L engine as they are not as prone to this problem as the 2.5L for some reason. I have a 97 outback that will have a 2.2L in it soon. After two 2.5L it's time for a change.

If the dealership won't install a 2.2 I'm sure there is a shop that will.