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bjstare
09-01-2009, 01:11 PM
I'm looking at buying a 1997 Subaru Legacy GT Wagon. Has 174K, owner has run synthetic in it and did the timing chain/water pump within the last year. Did front calipers and disks 3 years ago.

I'm just wondering if there's any known problems I should be aware of, and things to look for when I go to check the car out tonight? I already know about the common head gasket failure on these cars, so I'll be checking the oil for coolant and the coolant for oil haha. Thanks guys.
BlackArcher101
09-01-2009, 01:15 PM
Mainly just check conditions of suspension (ie good rebound), and check for seal leaks in the drive system. Rear pinion seal for example.
bjstare
09-01-2009, 01:19 PM
Alright. Is the drive system pretty reliable in these cars? I've never owned an AWD vehicle before, and I'm worried that more complicated drive->more potential problems? Seems naive, but... well I am naive when it comes to AWD cars and Subies. haha
max_boost
09-01-2009, 01:52 PM
5 Subaru's in the family. ZERO issues.
J NRG
09-01-2009, 02:10 PM
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bjstare
09-01-2009, 04:39 PM
Originally posted by BlackArcher101
Mainly just check conditions of suspension (ie good rebound), and check for seal leaks in the drive system. Rear pinion seal for example.

So it looked like a seal in the rear diff (rear pinion seal??) was leaking a bit... there was no puddles under the car, but the diff did have fluid on the outside. Could this be an issue?