300,000 Miles In The Outback! What It's Cost To Get Here & To Be 100% Again! Worth A New Upgrade?!

[@Seveneleven44]

My uncle had a 90’s Subaru wagon…it was a 5 speed, we called it the meat wagon. He commuted to work in it for a long time, 4th gear never worked. We use it as our “bush beater,” we take my grand pop to his deer stand, and bring the deer out of the woods with it. The odometer stopped working around the year 2000 and it had 647,000 miles on it.

[@paul2673]

So he put a minimum of 65k miles a year on it?

[@fredastaire6156]

@@paul2673 I agree with Paul. Doesn’t add up at all.

[@MrSubaru1387]

How doesn’t it add up? Featured a 2015 Crosstrek a while back with 1.2 Million miles on it.

[@Mike_44]

@@fredastaire6156 Here’s a 1998/1st gen Forester with 1,000,000 km = 625,000 miles on it. That was 4 years ago.. I bet that car is probably still running.. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rorUaKCZaZd8jbM

[@ThinkFreely2012]

I saw one at a dealership today that has 104k miles and is only a 2020. Blue Onyx XT in Nederland, TX.

[@lucaradaelli79]

Hi from italy. I’ve 3.0 H6 bh outback. Now 180k km ca. 112k miles… I lovely my car!!

[@orion2096]

The LL bean is why I found this channel. I bought my first Subaru, an LL Bean, this past January and you have helped me out so much.

[@1800dontcare]

My old 97 Forester hit over 400,000 until the rear main seal went which was a shame and had a few gremlins in the motor. Loved the old silver stallion and eventually got the 2001 model but after all that we got the new Outback and now upgrading to the new Outback XT Sports absolutely love Subaru

[@fredharvey2720]

Outback XT is very nice

[@1800dontcare]

@@fredharvey2720 unfortunately Australia like always was late to the game but enough people screamed WE WANT THR TURBO!!!! and sure enough Subaru heard our cries lol

[@FartyMcbongos]

We don't get shit in the UK, lucky to still have Subaru's sold here.

[@Lord_Stinkfoot]

Waiting to pick up my 23 OBW. Dealership can't sell it to me after waiting 2m to get it in. SOS software issue, and no 23 Outbacks can leave the lots. Dealerships are not happy.

[@rturner4205]

I bought an 01 Forester with 201,000 Miles on it. Absolutely love it.

[@Mike_44]

This gives me hope on my 214K miles ‘05 OBXT! Though I think the Subi n/a motors tend to last longer and suffer less than turbo motors. Provided you take care of them properly, these cars last a really long time! For 300K miles, that Outback looks awesome!

[@doodskie999]

That is correct. My 14 forester is now at 140k. No leaks and no issues with the CVT. Only thing I replaced was brake pads, rear bearings, oil, fluids, cvt fluid tires and batteries. Sadly, I traded it in for a 2019 outback this same year lol

[@norcal715]

Thank you for making me feel better about my purchase. Got a 03 Outback L.L.Bean 3.0 from the mother in law. 60K original miles, garage kept all its life. Complete coolant and trans flush at 50K. $3000 purchase price. I replaced engine mounts, trans mount, Idler pulleys, CV axles and new starter. Runs and drives like it drove off of the lot yesterday!

[@turdferguson9452]

Just got an LL Bean myself with low miles (80k) and am hearing a squealing from under the hood, suspect it’s the idler pulley bearing. How easy a fix is it? I’m not incredibly mechanically inclined but have been able to teach myself every fix needed on my last outback. Figured it’ll be easy enough but just wanna know what exactly I’m in for

[@randomviewmonitor]

I just recorded 100,000 miles today on my 2015 XV. Thank you for this channel.

[@FlowJunkie65]

I LOVE your channel, MrSubaru1387. I owned a 1984 Subaru Hatchback for 10 years, put on nearly 100,000 miles, only had to change the clutch at about 90k miles, but otherwise had trouble-free service from that little 1600cc, 4-speed manual transmission trooper, and got 42 MPG highway. Fast forward 38 years and I just bought a brand-new 2022 Subaru Forester Premium that I'd love to keep around for as long and for as many miles that you have on your 2002 Outback now that some of the bugs from the earlier Foresters have been remedied by Subaru. Thanks for your great channel - liked and subscribed.

[@mvg2x34]

I love the mechanical reviews and the cost reviews. I have a 2010 Forester with 145,000 mi on it. I bought it with 17k mi and it had not been well maintained. I recently caught up on some deferred maintenance, with the help of your channels recommendations and still love this vehicle.

[@Blinknone]

165k on my 2004 H6 and it's still going strong. Just a bit of normal maintenance (fluids, brakes, belts, tires, etc) as needed.

[@michaelweilmuenster5754]

Thanks for the cost analysis, I also believe in keeping older cars running. I'm on my 5th Subaru now. It's a 2017 outback that I got pre pandemic. It's the model just below the touring and has all the bells and whistles, eyesight, leather, sunroof winter package. Nicest car I've ever owned and I've had Suburbans and a Yukon. I just found my son a 2012 Forester with 53000 miles that was owned by an older lady that kept it in a garage always. It's like a brand new car. Also have a 2005 F350 FX4 Lariat that I picked up cheap in and 2019. Had the motor rebuilt and bulletproofed and transmission rebuilt and beefed up. Love not having a car payment!

[@Kevin09210]

I like to buy used cars and pay them cash. No car payments and its much less stressful because you can work on your car or take it to whoever you please and not depend on a dealership. I just bought a 2016 jeep grand cherokee with the v6 with only 30k miles (bank repo). Love the car, but its not without its issues. I worked as a Chrysler tech for some time so I know those cars, and I can fix mine. I will be more than happy to keep it running for the time I have it, and at the same time, enjoy it. Thats the good part of being able to fix your car or having a trustworthy and knowledgeable mechanic to help you: you can have and enjoy even the most unreliable car. And I'll say it again: NO CAR PAYMENTS 😁

[@MarzNet256]

Awesome. I have a 2006 Matrix 4WD with just over 200k miles. Paid 12.5 in 2010 for it with 25,000 miles. About 5k in repairs. Works out to ten cents a mile...so far. I do all services on it myself- just did the transfer case and rear differential. It runs perfect.

[@artilleryisbetter]

AWD not 4WD transfer case is the transmission

[@MarzNet256]

@@artilleryisbetter No. It is a separate unit. The axles and rear shaft come out of transfer case. Also, the badging on the car says 4WD.

[@ChinitFxt]

I didn’t know they came 4WD

[@SubieandFriends]

I’m a big car guy and wasn’t aware those matrix came in 4wd/awd, I guess you learn something new every day….By the way I always loved how those Toyota Matrix looked and always heard how good and reliable they were, by the way did you know that Pontiac and Toyota shared that same matrix platform? Pontiac had its own version of the matrix but I can’t remember what they called it.

[@MarzNet256]

@@SubieandFriends Yes. It's the Pontiac Vibe. It's was a joint GM and Toyota project. I have 200,379 miles on the Matrix.

[@stephanpatko]

My 2018 legacy just hit 150k. No issues yet, love your videos 🎉

[@johnleinen7167]

I bought a 99 legacy outback wagon,30th anniversary edition ,loaded options ,automatic 132k on it with ,yes bad orig. Oe multilayer headgaskets, paid 600.00 for it cosmetic condition perfect , spent about 2200 going thru motor ,wheel bearings brakes ball joints sus bushings etc. Now runs great !

[@VictorGoRar]

I don't own a subaru any more and I'm sad because of it, but I'm subscribing. I had a 2005 outback VDC model. ABSOLUTELY LOVED that car. I did treat it horribly but changed fluids religiously. Unfortunately the head gasket was giving out. I know now when I bought it back in 2013 up in concord NC, it had a tiny leak. I only know that now because of tale tale signs I wasn't aware of earlier in ownership. Fantastically manufactured machine. IT took all the abuse I gave it and laughed it off. I eventually sold it to carmax during this insane car market value for 1700 bucks. I just had too many irons in the fire so to speak, so I couldn't afford the repairs that would make the old thing back to 100%. I miss this car. Thanks for the run down. I want to get back into the subaru family at some point. This gives me a reason to keep an eye on the channel.

[@blakegarrett15]

I have a 2002 Subaru Outback 2.5 has 267,000 miles still going strong replace the original clutch at 215,000 miles !!!

[@yallaintgonnabelievethis]

Thank you so much for your no frills videos. You have helped me tremendously keep my 00' outback on the road.

[@LeeBv9983]

I have an 03 Bean I bought new in Sept 2003, right after the 04 models came out. I paid $27,002 for it. It now has 106K on it. It has been garaged since new and has probably not spent more than 10 nights of its life outside. It's been towed twice, once when an idler pulley failed and then about five years later when a tensioner failed. I've had the A/C hoses replaced twice. Had a couple bushings replaced and both front axles. It's on its third set of tires, and they were changed for age rather than wear. It's never had, or needed, an alignment. Current tires are four years old, rotated regularly, and wearing evenly. That's it other than the usual brake pad replacement/flush (still on original rotors), coolant change, etc. Absolutely nothing leaking, anywhere. It's serviced every six months by a small independent shop by a mechanic who drives an 02 Outback and has two Foresters for his wife and teenagers. This thing will run for a long, long time.

[@GhettyGreeen]

I got a 2007 legacy gt with 173xxx Very reliable and parts are abundant. Easy to work on as well, thanks to you!

[@ikariku]

Install a set of Bilstein struts on my 3°Gen Legacy (270.000 km), and the behavior of the vehicle is much better in comparison with the original ones. I recommended that upgrade. Thanks to your videos I was encouraged to do an extreme makeover to my car. My last purchase ($2,600 on 60 parts), to restore it because I do the same analysis and I prefer this car and enjoy it instead of throw money every year. My culture is to repair not waste.

[@michaelbrennan7148]

Thank you. 225k miles on my 09 Forester 2.5 NA NT AT . Safe travels.

[@geoffkeeney3831]

Oh, yeah. Insurance too... My '01 Legacy GT wagon checks all the boxes I need. Keep up the good work. Love the videos. You've saved me $$$$.

[@courtneyblackwell9211]

congrats--300K is a good milestone.

[@papag7296]

100k miles on a 2014 Forester thank you for the advice on this channel

[@md2k8]

These older Outback's are solid and bulletproof.

[@paulyC]

Fantastic video. I like the financial breakdown at the end, comparing old vs new.

[@elianbarajas2869]

I paid $150 for my 02 LL Bean Outback, it had 180k when I bought it. The thing was trashed, punched out ignition, broken windshield smashed in drivers door, chopped off exhaust. Missing title and all. It was still worth it to go through the hassle of getting it registered in CA. She has all the same leaks as yours. The only trouble it’s given me is the alternator + battery and the heating element going out on one of the 02 sensors.

[@BigDaddyBrady]

I have a 2008 LL Bean forester with 245k, new head gasket, whole new exhaust are the biggest things this far

[@kerikent72]

Have a 2022 Subaru wilderness, got to say I love the car. We are pulling out pop up trailer with it. My husband is 6'4" and this was the only car he fits in front and back with plenty of leg room. Man it has power when you need to speed up for Texas highways. We bought a 2015 Crosstrek for my daughter. Love Subaru!!!

[@johnnumbat9782]

Thanks again Mr S - I’ve found your reports are very honest, factual and well detailed - here in Australia I’ve owned 10 different used Subarus only due to lifestyle changes - my first Forester was the original 1997 RX Auto which lasted to 425,000 km until a cam shaft seized - most of the models were 2.0 litre pre-2000 without the head gasket issues and a 2009 XT Turbo Forester, 1981 Leone Wagon, 1990 Liberty wagon with the flawed air suspension and 1996 Outback - I don’t like CVTs and the lack of a coolant temp meter in all models from 2008 so my next car will be a pre-2008 Forester with conventional automatic transmission

[@ocavant]

I have 380k on my '97 Astro van. OG engine and trans. With care cars will last a long long time.

[@robsonselzelin]

The cheapest way of having a car is driving it until the wheels fall off. Good choice, Mr. Subaru! I will do that with my Tribeca as well, at least until the kids don't fit in the third row anymore.

[@stevenewman3185]

Have a July 2003 in Australia bought with only 160000km on clock soon too click over too 200000km. Only 2 owners before but the factory service in those lives took a lot to be desired. A few negligence probs . Glad I'm a mechanic having Subs since 1978. Love it. But you never stop learning. Love Mr Subaru. I was always called Subaru Steve.

[@kiwikidusa]

Mr Subaru is precisely correct! I have been through the same process with my 2005 Forester XS with now 201750 miles. I ended up spending around $2,800, in parts as I did everything myself, to remove the engine to change all seals, new Six Star head gaskets, head bolts, timing belt, pulleys, tensioner, and water pump. Replace all clutch components, the flywheel was fine so it was resurfaced. Replace rear wheel bearings, and replace all struts (the springs were fine) and housings. And lastly, replace all brake calipers, rotors, pads, and master cylinder. Oh, and replace all sway bar bushings and end links. I now have a car that will easily last another 100,000 miles. I considered getting a new CrossTrek, but the cost of ownership was significantly higher and I intensely dislike the new electronics...eyesight etc. Thank you for clearly stating the reality of ownership Mr Subaru!

[@TheCharacter97]

My Subaru is currently getting evaluated by a mechanic I trust (drove 2 hours but I know him from before I moved out of my parents house and dont trust anyone here but they are good to change parts though...). My OB has 190 000 miles and my brake line is bad, front calipers are done, timing belt is due, clutch probably as well but I find it goes super smooth, rear struts are shot... I have quite a bit of money to invest.. its also my only car so I cannot start dismantling it and arrive monday morning and have no car as I live on the countryside... hope everything turns out good and can give him a go to make my Subaru decent again as its a tank during winter.

[@kiwikidusa]

@@TheCharacter97 I understand. Look at it this way; as Mr Subaru pointed out most people do not take into account the real cost of ownership. So even if you fork out $5,000 you are still way ahead over buying a new Subaru, due to the moment you drive off the lot you lose at least that much. I have already talked to my Subaru dealer salesman (the one who sold me the Forester I have now) and he agrees. Plonking at least $30,000 down for a new one I think is crazy, especially in the State I'm in (Ohio) where after one winter the underside is trashed. Or some dipshit looses control and smashes into you; this happened to my Subaru parts guy. He had a brand new vehicle he loved after 5 months and 5,000 miles it is a complete write-off and he can't replace it due to the present situation. The Subarus we have a nearly bullet proof if you maintain them and if something goes wrong invariable it is a relatively easy fix compared to most other manufacturers and the parts aren't outrageously expensive. I wish you the best!

[@TheCharacter97]

@@kiwikidusa I dont mind putting money in my car but the guy who will check my Subaru will also check the underside and a such and if it happens that it would be rotted (which I doubt), then its not worth putting money on.. Could be other things but but right now it was way overdue that I sent it to the shop..

[@kiwikidusa]

@@TheCharacter97 Completely understand. I have been spraying the my Forester underside with Fluid Film, now known as WoolWax. And do touch ups every year or so, just did one yesterday evening. For a car that has been in Ohio for 17 years it does not have much rust or corrosion at all. My wife's 2012 Impreza has none as I was very aggressive from day one and use a combination of Fluid Film and ACF-50. On your car be sure to check the control arms, as the original control arms have a tab that was welded in a way that water/salt could just sit there and corrode away. Get a ball peen hammer and tap away you'll know right away.

[@TheCharacter97]

@@kiwikidusa thanks for the control arm tip. I also do touch ups every year. I admit I neglected the underside a bit but it doesnt seem so bad for a 2010 and living in NE Canada. I do take my pressure washer outside on warm winter days and clean my car.. that helps.. if I put money, im definitely either try your wax thing or just get it sprayed with grease.

[@harveysmith100]

I run a 91 Land Cruiser as my daily driver. Cars of this era from Japan are probable the best. The only thing that goes on them is the bits made out of rubber, but any rubber will perish eventually. Having said that, most of my rubber components are original! Slowly changing them as a matter of course.

[@tylerbeck3806]

03 forester 225K this month. Still runs and drives beautifully. Bought with 194K and just had to do suspension, tires/alignment and timing belt. Original single layer head gaskets still too.

[@gregdolecki8530]

225000K is 225000000 miles.

[@tylerbeck3806]

@@gregdolecki8530 good catch. Cant believe I let that slip. Just corrected it. Thanks.

[@ZeroCool2013]

That outback is almost as nice as my 2002 Subaru forester S 😁 Except my car only got 140k miles on it ! 😄 Bought for 4k last year no oil leaks or transmission leaks at all so far. Had to swap the power steering pump from my other 2002 forester because the lesser miles S forester has gasket leaks on it needing rebuilding.

[@tlopez2608]

Great vid!! I agree that maintaining this car verses purchasing a new equivalent is the better option. Just bought a ‘19 crosstrek limited, and last year bought a ‘19 Ascent premium. And the crosstrek was more expensive than the Ascent. Plus it was higher mileage. We bought both cars through the same sales rep and from the same dealer. They explained that the Subaru’s inventory shortage was the reason. In disbelief I looked the same model crosstrek, and found out that their price for the crosstrek agreed with everywhere else. Simply said, a new or new/used cost plenty more than the MSRP these days. Maintaining this vehicle is clearly the most cost effective option.

[@scottminshall6420]

I agree why would want all of that undo cost for a car that's going to depreciate 20% when you drive it off the lot from the get go. Looks like a pretty clean Subaru to me.

[@Nous.swimmer]

2012 legacy 335k miles: I just replaced the original radiator, all I’m missing now is to replace the original steering wheel pump(still running strong) all other components have been replaced during the last couple of years. All these labors have been DIY thanks to your channel. Thank you.

[@claytoncoolidge992]

Have had several over the years but one outback. It was a 2012 bought it from the original owner with only 28000 miles in 2014 and traded the 2010 Impreza that was bought new but needed bigger. Drove it till the end of 2018 and when I sold it had 289000 miles on it. The only things I had ever had to do to it was several sets of tires several sets of brakes lots of oil changes (didn't burn leak or seep) did the 3rd timing belt right before I sold it as the tensioner was starting to get the Subaru tick to it again and it was at the mileage that I run them too (I change them at 80k and I have a feeling that is why I never had any head gasket issues and the fact that I ditched the Subaru coolant for standard green) 4 flushes on the cvt trans and it worked flawlessly front and rear struts 1 rear cv shaft only cause it was seized in the wheel bearing that went bad a battery serpentine belt 4 sets of spark plugs a gas cap (the only time i ever had a check engine light) and several headlight bulbs and a few tail and brake light bulbs. When I sold it it was running flawlessly and still getting 32mpg that it always got. I know the family it went to and they are still driving it and has just over 400000 miles on it now still oe cvt and head gaskets the new owners have followed my maintenance regimen and they have only had to do basic maintenance. A couple of wheel bearings and had to rebuild the front differential do to a bearing and seal failure

[@sashasmail-h6c]

nice. take care of the car, and you never have a problem. a lesson to us all

[@tkmech5747]

Over 350k in my 02 2.5 i paid $300 for it with a blown trans put a $150 trans in it and $1k in other parts now i just drive it till it ticks and dump a couple qts of random half full bottles of oil in it

[@lisandro12349]

I’m selling my 01 Outback H6 VDC after 5 years of ownership 😢, I bought a 2010 q5 3.2 🥲 still loved it my Outback 267k kms on it. I’ll get another one sometime in life.

[@shuba097]

My 00 outback @280K has been the best Subaru I have ever owned. The only problem I had with it is the trans when out in it which, was no fault of its own, Just the previous owner never maintained it so it hated going into drive. I tried to resurrect it but it was too far gone so I just replaced it. Now aside from an annoying roof leak its the most reliable car out of any of them (that I own) I will never give up on this car just as it has never given up on me.

[@benstaubyn]

Great stuff ☺️

[@richardrosa4826]

One thing that most people do have to contend with is the labor to do all of those repairs. Obviously being a Subaru mechanic you don't count that labor. I would love to see a revised cost of ownership figuring in what you'd charge a customer if you did all of that work for them. My guess is that 7K vehicle would be closer to double that. Still not bad but more realistic.

[@fordfactor]

This is the car that got me onto your channel years ago, as I have the Oz equivalent car. I agree these seem like the best years for the outback and they feel almost over engineered.

[@jeffzekas]

Our 1999 Impreza outback has 300,000 miles, but I’m ready to get a new Subaru.

[@Guitarmanskoot]

I love my Subaru I own a 93 LL Bean Although she’s in the shop Getting a major oil leak repaired Timing chains and water pump being installed

[@zachmcdougall6056]

You should do a video about the 60000 mile service and the 120000 mile services. Getting a lot of conflicting info on forums and a ton of different prices.

[@jrozz421]

2014 legacy here with 165000 and hoping to get as much as I can out of it.

[@StuG-pr9tf]

there is a small mechanic shop that has a 2005 Subaru Outback with 251,000 miles, they have a good reputation as mechanics in this town, they said it looks like it was pretty well maintained. They are "asking" $2,500 for it. The brakes + tires need to be done soon, so that would probably be about $1,500 I assume for that? I will try to look at it and use some of what you have taught us here on this channel. NEW subscriber...thank you for all your effort and time to teach us about these wonderful vehicles

[@dabro_the_first]

i have a 2001 outback L.L. bean edition with 112,000 miles on it and this helps me know what i could expect in the future

[@brucecooley4170]

The other alternative is another used one 10 years newer with maybe less stuff that needs fixing. I realize that you know this one inside and out, and the cheap original price cant be beat, but the math is not this one versus new , but this one vs used with say 120,000 miles on it. Just a thought. Otherwise your channel demonstrates cost savings of doing your own repairs. Thanks for the education!

[@petergoesinya636]

I like the way you think. I was given (long story) a 2001 Forester in 2019. It had a very slight head gasket leak. I never did figure out where the coolant was going. I simply added a cup every couple of weeks. Engine finally gave up summer of 2022 at about 275,000 miles (non head gasket-related). I bought a used engine in Salisbury NC and installed it near my home outside of ATL. Gotta love my low payments. And insurance. And license tags. Air blows cold, all power accessories work

[@covrtdesign5279]

I have an 05 outback LL Bean and NEVER thought about calling it a Bean Machine!!! So excited to call it that from now on. Congrats on 300,000., I am at 217,500 and will be doing head gaskets and timing chain this month, everything else has damn near been replaced (mostly preventative maintenance and for ride comfort, and because I like working on my car), 2" LP Adventure lift kit, and murders the trails out here in CO and on the road.

[@timo7408]

have 2001 h6 3.0 228000 miles replacing crankshaft pulley now, replace struts, lower control arms (bad bushing), ball joints, inner outer tie rod ends. other odds and ends, brakes, tires etc and general maintenance. every other oil change do drain and fill on tranny ,still going.

[@Crimson_h3ll]

my outback blew up yesterday at 259648 miles, good thing i got a ej22 to throw in there for now

[@papilloncycles3463]

Its a good car to run because of economy and the reward for the usability of it! I love my 1994 Legacy L wagon and I am at about 4K with investment in it and purchase price used for 40k of use

[@Honestandtruth007]

I thought I Never going to hear that Subaru car can go to Over 200,000 or more. So this video makes me keep my 2014 Forester 2.5 I Regular boxer engine.... I'm tempted to buy a new version of the Forester

[@AmricanEagl]

My 2008 Chevy Malibu 2.4L four cylinder engine has 296000 miles with original engine and transmission. All I do is change oil and brakes. It is definitely the most reliable car I ever owned.

[@williamharink4926]

So I bought a 2008 Impreza with a blown engine. I replaced the old engine with a junkyard one with unknown mileage. I did the timing belt and components, and a compression test before I installed the engine. The car starts and runs perfect but as soon as the rpm’s go above 4000rpm there is a code for cylinder 3&4 misfire, it stops flashing as soon as I go back under 4000rpm. I tried new NGK plugs, wires and a different used coil pack. And swap the injectors around but I still get the same thing. Any ideas on what to check next? Is there anything that cylinders 3&4 share that could cause a misfire?

[@BMMEC2009]

I have an 08 outback L.L.Bean. the original owner didn't have a clue. She blew the original motor, and put a crappy motor in it and sold it to the dealer I bought it from. They overtightened the head bolts and two of them pulled the threads out of the block and then it bled oil. Well needless to say I just put a new (decent) engine with 90k on it. Other than the dashboard being a sticky mess it's a nice car

[@johnpenwell6402]

Nice. I got the family hand me down 01 Forester to 313k miles before it had to be scrapped. Sadly a mostly northeast life bathed in winter salt plus Philly potholes cracked the rear subframe. Engine still pulled like a champ, I really wanted to keep it running till the engine gave out.

[@annyer262]

I drive a 1983 Subaru brat. Cost from California wa $2000. Cost $1000 to ship to upstate NY. Put about 50 hours of work painting it. There was no rust, just sun damaged paint. Plus had some Subaru Brumby accessories shipped from Australia. Total cost was about $5500. Gets 26 mpg. People are always complimenting me and asking me about it. Much better deal than a $800 per month truck payment.

[@bobgillies3319]

Hi Mr Subaru, I love your videos. I have had 6 Subaru vehicles in NZ. Only real benefit of a 2014 or later is eyesight. I have a 2017 Outback and the safety features make it worth the money ($25000nz) put 300kms on a 2009 and it was still running sweet, Not sure why Subaru gets a bad rep other than jealousy lol Cheers Bob

[@steveksi]

Nice. You got a great find there. Yep that Rod knock will definitely head an old car to the Scrappy. (If you cant wrench turn yourself)

[@802Garage]

Buying a new car almost never saves money over fixing a used one, at least if you can fix it yourself.

[@guestandsons]

Having run and driven subaru's as a business for pest control since 1991. 296,000miles is my record on a 1.8 l series estate with manual gear box. The turbo models will wear quicker.

[@michaelchristopher9444]

i am a newly converted subaru owner. i bought a 2008 outback 2.5i for $1200, with blown headgaskets, a broken windshield and also needed the usual brakes, sway bar links, a few other gaskets hear and there and a cv boot. after doing all the work myself and getting both the cylinder heads i was into the car for a little bit under $3000. this is my first winter driving this car, and i am sold on subarus all wheel drive. although the fuel mileage is average considering the size of the car its way cheaper to operate this car opposed to driving my diesel truck which due to reasons i dont understand, cost $300 to fill at $2 per litre.

[@Matt_from_Florida]

Amen! Can anyone tell me what year Subaru "solved" their head gasket problem COMPLETELY. Thanks.

[@MrSubaru1387]

2013 across the board.

[@Matt_from_Florida]

@@MrSubaru1387 Been more seriously considering buying a JDM Subaru KEI car with a Clover4 engine, as one of the main importers is right here in Jacksonville, Florida. Just as an in-city car. *Is that a bad idea?*

[@Rodogg7787]

I have a really cool 05 legacy with every single add on you can buy, but it's running but won't move! 5 speed. New clutch, help!

[@RyansuBike]

Nice breakdown, when folks think about 80 cents a mile vs 8 driving a hooptie makes sense (and cents) I drive a 2004 sentra with a mere 120,000 miles. Love not having a car payment.

[@gobeklipepe]

With proper maintenance, I’ll see how many miles I can put on my 2021 Outback 🤔

[@802Garage]

Looks mint just keep sending it! Also I gotta ask. Even with your discount, is AutoZone oil really cheaper than just buying 5qt jugs of Pennzoil or whatever flavor you like from Walmart or Amazon? I personally think parts stores rip everyone off on fluids.

[@MrSubaru1387]

It’s quite a bit cheaper buying oil wholesale that buying the name brand on the shelf. Also buying in bulk as I do helps.

[@802Garage]

@@MrSubaru1387 Ah wholesale. That makes sense. I thought you just got a "discount" which IME doesn't make up the difference. But yeah I'm sure that oil is probably Valvoline or Amalie and it's fine.

[@EricB03]

Just turned over 100K on my 2010 2.4 limited Outback. You have affiliate links as I need to buy some stuff to do the front and rear dif, cabin air, engine air filter, etc. Appreciate your videos.

[@MrSubaru1387]

I do. They’re in the video description 👍🏻

[@EricB03]

@@MrSubaru1387 thanks and will order from there. Appreciate your videos

[@NVRAMboi]

I agree w/your thinking. We have (2) vehicles (both paid for), oldest is a 2005 while the "new" vehicle is a 2009. Both in very good cosmetic and running condition. Also, being older vehicles they have far less electronics/modules to fail requiring expensive repair. Keep running them, y'all.

[@fredharvey2720]

YOU MADE IT!

[@timbrown9731]

I think this and the 5th gen are one of the best looking models.

[@noahsmith1726]

Here in NY, my 04 ll bean is starting to have rust related issues and some oil leaks. If I could decide I'd never drive anything else. Been to 36 of the lower 48 in it. Keeps me up at night thinking about the day it'll die.

[@loganshenk6645]

Absolutely love the 3.0’s had a ll bean myself and I beat the hell out of it. Still got me to 280k with nothing more then a alternator and radiator.

[@stonepa]

Love the video. Around here, rust is what kills a Subaru. Any thought on doing a video on rust prevention, especially underneath?

[@gregdolecki8530]

226,000 on my 2010 Outback and still going. Biggest one-time cost has been an $800 transmission valve body that I changed myself. Haven't done any major engine repairs yet, not even the infamous head gaskets. They're not leaking. The oil separator plate sprung a leak recently and that will be tended to by me for a low, low price.

[@nevoyu]

My 2006 forester basket case only has 260k and I need to yank the motor and replace quite a few seal that are pouring on it. And swap out the steering rack which visibly cracks the casing from some Lord only knows incident. I think it's worth fixing, but I honestly don't have the time. Nor the funds.

[@kidwelldavid6136]

Again thanks for the video. I have a 2015 and a 2018 Forester, both payed off and run great. The new one have some nice Gadgets but not worth them new payments. Please keep that LL-Bean going.

[@rafranks1410]

The O2 sensors are in a great spot. Where’s the plastic belly pan? I’ve got an ‘04 base model that we bought new, and it’s got 181k miles on it, and it runs like a beast!

[@MrSubaru1387]

Long gone on the splash shield

[@Central-Scrutinizer]

IMO this is something Subaru had and is now missing: the compact wagon with ~70 Cu Ft of cargo space., like the SG Forester. The Crosstrek has identical footprint (175 in.), but ony 55 cu ft. The new Outbacks come closest with the same utility, but are bigger cars. I want a modern SG Forester with a 6 or 8 speed auto and 200 HP and 9" ground clearance. If the BRZ drivetrain could go AWD, that would be great.

[@michaelweatherhead9470]

I'm with you no upgrade needed.

[@Denunzio36]

2011 Legacy 3.6R with 221k miles. Owned since 7k miles. Aside from normal maintenance items (fluid changes, brakes, tires, filters, lugs, etc....) I haven’t had to replace a single part. I drive it like an old man, but longevity is the mission... Want to hit 300k. Doing a preventative suspension upgrade (just stock stuff) this winter as it’s getting a bit “clunky” over bumps. Overall, best car I’ve owned. My recommendations for a long-life car with minimal maintenance: Accelerate slow, take corners slow, try not to accelerate in hard turns (or at all in any turn if possible) and stop slow / gradually. Most importantly importantly, I always let my car warm up until rpms are at idle. Lastly, I use Castrol Edge full synthetic for all oil changes

[@bennylloyd-willner9667]

LOL, I've just been Down Under visiting my brother and we took his motorhome to Coober Pedy. I thought you meant a long trip to that "outback"😂 BTW a Great channel! Greetings from Sweden (2014 Forester XT and 2005 Legacy 2,5)

[@gregorymark6014]

Love the channel! Wish that the video included the cost if the parts and labor had come from a Subaru dealership. I do a lot of the repairs and maintenance on my 2012 Forester, but a lot of people can't and I wouldn't be replacing struts myself. Do you get wholesale price at the dealership? Have a Tax ID number?

[@maybenot6075]

The struts are a breeze, especially if you get a full unit already bolted together, I recommend pedders if they're available where you are, I got heavy duty ones for my 03 for towing & they're brilliant

[@descai10]

Your comparison at the end is true, but buying new isn't nearly the best strategy. If you buy a used but fairly new car instead, you can get a much better price, and have much less depreciation over time. Then you can sell it around when the warranty ends, and only lose the difference in price which won't be that much considering you already bought used and the most depreciation happens when you drive it off the lot. Just looking at the market, I found a 2020 Subaru Forester with 32k miles sold for 24k next to a 2020 Subaru Forester with 119k miles sold for 17k. That difference plus maintenance costs comes out to about 10-12 cents per mile, not as cheap as yours but certainly not bad considering you get to drive a much newer car with new features. Either way you end up paying way more for gas than for the car.

[@stuartsmith5146]

Took my 97 OBW limited 186k to 286k before it sacrificed itself to save my daughter. 😢 It DID have new suspension on it and hugged the corners nicely. Oih, what a dance partner.

[@Adzeoda]

Practical man....numbers don't lie!

[@cbijames7]

Congratulations 🎉 !!

[@jamesbarca7229]

I have a 2011 Outback with 200k miles on it. Hopefully it lasts as long as my 1986 IROC-Z which has 300k+ and is still going strong.

[@2damaxx182]

At 12:17 you imply that if compression tests good you will not replace piston rings or any bearings. I'm pulling an EJ253APZFB engine with 204k miles, no communication yet between cylinder, oil, or coolant (but seeping both from original head gaskets). Runs great, no blue smoke or knocking. Many commenters say not to split the block to change main crank bearings as line boring is required to re-use case. Is that true or can it usually be reassembled with new main bearings? Also is it advisable from a benefit/risk strategy to hone cylinders, replace rings, rod bearings, etc to gain longevity? Or, is the risk of getting abrasives in the oil galleys to the crankshaft (block not split) prohibitive? Since transmission has 204k too, can you or others comment on the best strategy when pulling an engine with these miles if we want to keep and drive it for another 200K? Don't rings eventually wear out? Maybe I should just surface the heads, best Felpro gaskets, and Aisin timing kit and play it safe. Thanks

[@andrewmantle7627]

I really enjoy your content Mr. S.

[@johnnyq1233]

AGREE with you 1000%!!! I bought my '05 Outback 2.5i in 2018 with 100,000 kms on it for 7200.00 and it was absolutely mint inside and out. My Windstar was in getting some needed springs and struts and my mechanic had just finished re-newing this car...by that I mean replacing everything that needed to be replaced for a safety. So, I took it for a test drive and fell in love with the car and bought it the next week. Other than the regular maintenance that is needed, I've only had to do a timing job on it because an idler wheel blew up and did front cv axles. This year I did the plugs because a misfire and trouble starting occurred that was like 30 bucks and 40 minutes. Being able to actually work on my car is such a great thing too. Cost of ownership is key!!!! Even if I had to put a used engine or trans in it, I would have to justify paying 2 times as much to buy another used vehicle and then you don't know what that is going to need. New car, how many major repairs can you get for 30-50 thousand dollars?

[@armandodiaz67]

2015 Outback Premium FB25, 180K. Other than maintenance, spent about $1300 in repairs (CVT valve body and rear wheel bearing). We're shooting for 300k. Worst part of the car is the "leather" seats.

[@rachelross5829]

I have an llbean suburu. Over 200 th miles. I was gonna junk it but I love it to much I paid $1000 like 6 years ago and did maintenance and seal fixed.