Bought a 99 Outback with an "engine problem" hoping it would be something quick and easy and we'd have a nice summer camping beater/entry-level rallycross machinge. It isn't - #4 exhaust valve has a hole in it that's visible by dropping the exhaust. Car still runs smoothly above idle, but shakes and stutters when sitting at a stoplight. Throws a CEL for #4 cyl misfire. Other than that, it runs like a top. Doesn't overheat, burn oil etc.
The body/interior of the car are in good condition. No rust that I can see, and the classic Subaru Outback Green/Tan paint is in pretty good shape. I took everything out of the interior and scrubbed it when we brought the car home, and it now shines. The usual scuffs and scrapes on the bumper (pics to come shortly) that come from a life of suburban/Costco parking. Silly stuff like wiper blades have all been replaced.
I called a few shops, and they all quote over $2k for the engine R/R alone (engine has to come out to get to the valves). I don't have a garage or even a space to work, so I'm going to pass this on. For somebody that can do the work, you can swap in a new engine and flip it for $3,500+. Or just pull the engine and swap in a reman head for $200-300. If I had a garage, I'd do it, but I don't have the space or time.
Car's located in Reston, VA. I wouldn't hesitate to drive it long distances (we picked it up and drove it back 8 hours without a hitch). It just won't pass ODB2 emissions because of the CEL, so at this point it can't be registered in Virginia.
Pics to come shortly.
