Looking at late 90s Legacys.
Just wanting to know the advantages/disadvantages of the 2.2L and 2.5L engines. I know 2.5s have an issue with head gaskets, but what exactly? Also any other major issues to look out for.
How many miles are the engines good for if serviced properly?
The head gasket issue is the biggest problem I hear of, but that's it.
Fuel fillers rust out. So does the rest of the body.
You CAN replace the headgaskets with the engine still in the car.
What exactly is the issue the head gaskets? They go bad and the car starts consuming coolant.
My dads 2.2 legacy has made it to 400k on the second engine. Looking back selling it at about 275k would have been a much wiser choice, I posted in the thread about high mileage subaru motors with a list of the main reasons why i say that.
SyntheticBlinkerFluid wrote:Looking at late 90s Legacys.
Just wanting to know the advantages/disadvantages of the 2.2L and 2.5L engines. I know 2.5s have an issue with head gaskets, but what exactly? Also any other major issues to look out for.
How many miles are the engines good for if serviced properly?
The head gasket issue is the biggest problem I hear of, but that's it.
If you are looking for a late 90's stay with the 2.2. A little slower but the DOHC 2.5's don't have a great reputation.
The DOHC cars get internal HG leaks - so they blow up before you realize the problem. They are an absolute bitch of a job to change the plugs on. They really don't make that much more power unless you rev them.
If you want a 2.5 look at early 2000's.
How are the automatics? I am having a hard time finding a descent one with a manual. I really kind of want a wagon again, but 99% of the ones I have found on the Chicago CL are automatic
My 97 2.2 with auto went 275k with hard driving, occasional AX, and the original ATF in the tranny.
The auto is decent for an auto. When I was gentle with the throttle it would shift smoothly. When I tromped it, it would pull through 1st and 2nd till redline, then jump up.
I really like the sedans and I found a 2.5 GT with a 5-speed near where I live. They want $2200 for it, thats in my price range.
I need to find out what's wrong with it.
All you'd ever want to know about 2.5 Subaru head gaskets: Clicky the linky.As for "replace them in the car"...yeah, you can, but you're insane if you think that's easier than just yanking the engine out.
