I Screwed Myself | Cheap Subaru Outback Purchase Backfires. Never Take Someone's Word As Truth!

[@guntherultraboltnovacrunch5248]

The absolute most you can lose is $1000. Every Jeep owner loses 10x that the moment they sign the bill of sale.

[@phillipyacovella2010]

Great, a good fried just found that out. It's not even funny.

[@BOOGiNS]

Right? My job only buys dodge caravans. They are the worst vehicle I've ever driven. And will never buy anything dodge except for their trucks. But I have no need for a truck. So I'll never buy a dodge.

[@resqguy]

Your transparency in this unfortunate situation is very welcome in today's day & age.

[@cajunaggie9815]

You definitely aren't the first to get screwed over. You win some, you lose some, but as long as we're alive, there are plenty of opportunities to learn.

[@02markcal]

It's not a mistake if you learn from this experience.

[@butcher390]

I appreciate your brutal honesty and humility 🙏

[@turboimport95]

It sucks when people lie and scam you, as a mechanic myself i had a supposed friend that is a mechanic sold me a car and i told him i would only buy the car if the engine was good, he lied and told me it had a vacuum leak and was easy fix , and the engine was good... well i diagnosed it as a bad cylinder 4 with only 70 psi compression.. He knew i was a mechanic and i would figure it out. My shop is next to his in a business complex. I sold him a few cars and of course all the ones i sold him were good and done him right, but he could not do the same for me...anyway he tried to sell me another car I told him i dont need any. And yes i told him the car needed a engine and he just laughs it off. So much for the golden rule BS.. I dont mind buying stuff with bad engines as long as you tell me its bad. Just dont lie.

[@jeretso]

How much to fix the bad cylinder?

[@turboimport95]

@@jeretso I had to buy and replace the engine, I still have the old engine have not tore it down yet to see what was bad. cylinder bore or piston rings.

[@melissasmess2773]

As a mechanic of 35 years I will say that you can seldom improve anything that you buy used, it either runs good or it never will. A friend tried to sell me his old vehicle, I knew he put in new plugs a couple years ago. He told me that it needed a tuneup, I scan the engine and verified that the Ford fiesta was getting ready to drop valve seats. He apparently thought I was stupid 😂

[@turboimport95]

@@melissasmess2773 yeah People will lie even those you know. Best thing is to not deal with them anymore afterwards.

[@eflanagan1921]

@@melissasmess2773 What showed imminent valve seat failure , not familiar with Fiesta (late model?)

[@WellRoundedWoodsman]

My 2009 seized up at 249,900 miles last fall and I picked up a 180k mile 07 Forester EJ253 for $800. I did the swap in my driveway and then had head gasket failure 3000 miles later. I absolutely love my 09, its like a well worn leather couch to me and I had just replaced the entire suspension, tires, windshield and all 5 driveshafts before the original engine failed so to me it was worth keeping. If You part this one out I'd be interested in the front bumper cover. I had a little tussle with a small cedar tree while goofing off on a snowy road but it hasn't been worth the effort yet. These 3rd gens are still very desirable cars.

[@chasedyer5950]

$5,500?? I got an actual beautifully remanufactured EJ253 from the Subie Specialists in Traverse City for $2600 and had it installed for $700

[@adamsmith9636]

WOW . My mechanic wanted $7,000 and the Subaru dealership wanted $5,500

[@chasedyer5950]

@@adamsmith9636 My mechanic knew the shop that installed it so I got a good deal on the installation, but paid full price for the engine. I took it to the Subaru dealership for head gaskets, they lied and said my block was warped, tried to charge me $8000, I declined and they threw all the oily parts all over my seats and carpet, with parts missing. That’s the day I started learning, and just did my first head gasket job this month lol

[@Veemteem]

In my area you can get ej253s for junkyards already pulled for 500-1500 depending on miles and condition. We dont have many subarus on the road here so not much market for them like northern states

[@Toolaholic7]

​​@Veemteem Plus a core charge from some auto salvage yards wanting the old engine back as a core.You get that core charge money back when they receive the core

[@SconnieFish]

My local engine builder does older ejs for 2000, newer ejs for 3300, and something around the 3k range for FB engines. Fully remanufactured long block. I find it so crazy people pay upwards of 5k for engines

[@drewv1785]

I can't say that I enjoyed watching this. It was painful to see you get taken like this, but I think over time you may recover your loss by parting it out. I hope so. Best of luck to you!

[@michaelmartin2276]

I feel for you. Been there and done that a couple of times over my 45 years as a mechanic and car flipper. I once bought a used 2007 Jayco travel trailer sight unseen. Wasn't until I got home found out the frame was as crooked as a local politician !

[@midwestmutineer7675]

The reason I love your content is the transparency!

[@jackpalczynski7884]

That is THE best looking Outback. We had an 08 and it was a great looking car. It had sort of an accident as in I brought it to a rip off dealer and after they did the work I asked for and somehow drained the battery to zero, someone hit the car in their parking lot and they did nothing for me. They they got pissed that when Subaru sent me the survey for the service, I completely told the story and they called all pissed at me. Well, you told me you were going to take care of me on the crash. Ghosting me isn't that.

[@hsjkfhjfoakhdh2842]

Have to agree about the 3rd gen looking the best out of the lot. It was sleek and lowkey, yet quite detailed. The silhouette always looked like it fit in a city setting, yet being such a off-road capable vehicle.

[@kenc.9067]

To each his own. I think the 2000-2004 Outbacks are the best looking, especially the ones with the 2-tone paint scheme.

[@zmyslowykalosz]

the lift is the best one everywhere outside of the US, EU, JDM, AUS are all great looking and slick just as the original

[@thezirons]

2007 Outback was our first one that sold us on always owning a Subaru. It was a solid car for exploring the western states.

[@eflanagan1921]

@@kenc.9067 My choice too, in green!

[@JohnC-b5j]

The seller understood that $1000 for this lemon was a great deal

[@wim0104]

they just lost $5500 on the engine swap. no winners in this sad story.

[@uv6er]

@@wim0104the shop who did engine swap? ;)

[@CouchMan88]

You can almost never lose on a $1k car as long as its not rusted out. You can usually dump it on the next guy and at least be honest about the condition and still sell it for $1k. Being in California I've never had to worry about rust buying and selling cars fortunately.

[@subieracer005]

LOL, out here in Oregon that pile would still sell for 2k.

[@kenwhitaker7119]

Or Utah....

[@melbrooks5816]

I'd love to see a comprehensive video on the 4EAT. There aren't a lot of quality videos on that transmission, so seeing common faults, diagnostics and fixes would be fantastic.

[@cycleguy666]

Make video of the head gasket job and Trans repairs. Let's see what else it needs! What's it worth ??

[@daveweiland8433]

Indeed, a how to repair video would be great!

[@brianfarnell9833]

Part it out. This gen is notorious for throwing the dreaded P420 code. I bet you could get some nice cash for the catalytic converter if it’s in good shape.

[@rayers1000]

Man fuck that damn P0420

[@802Garage]

If it's a PZEV model with original cats, selling the cats alone would make a profit. Just gotta sell to a recycler that actually gives good money and not a local ripoff artist. If it's not PZEV cats are still probably worth $200-500 I think. Sell mirrors, door handles, window switches, taillights, some interior and engine bay bits and bobs, easy profit. Just a pain to list stuff.

[@literocola970]

I have an 09 and it will kick the P0420 code once every 4-6 months. I just clear the code then run a couple tanks of premium and I wont see the code for a while. If you do part it out, I will buy the rear drivers side door handle. The doorman's keep snapping on me in the cold winter months. I need a OE handle and I will also buy the grill. The chrome on mine has been slowly chipping away.

[@TK-ff5kc]

Customer got taken. Engine out head gasket job should be 2800 tops, same as a junk yard engine swap. I did a engine out overhaul on my wife's 06 outback, parts total was $1000.

[@TechShanty]

I can confirm. I paid $2700 to have my gasket changed on my 2010 legacy. I went to a local Indy that specializes in Subaru's. I didn't mind paying a little more to have it done right

[@jeffrey3498]

It took a lot of humility on your part to admit this. You could have just not told anyone.

[@emeraldgrovepermaculture]

had to put a remanned engine in my 08 outback after 1 year of driving. sketchy local dealers with shady paperwork. blown head gasket and gusher oil leak out of nowhere early on. knock knock knockin for 8 months.

[@davepeters4955]

I could use a driver side headlight assembly. I know they're cloudy, but I bet I can clean that up.

[@franksattler6053]

I like how you point out your mistakes and take the blame for this situation. We have all been taken and lost money on a car deal. I do like your idea of using it as a learning tool and part out the parts. I recently came across your channel and I am finding it interesting as I learn about Subarus. I have a 2020 Subaru Legacy Limited that I bought used last year. I would love for you make a video about how a Subaru CVT transmission works. I did watch your video about maintenance of your Subaru, 6000 mile oil changes or maybe it was 5000, but that video was interesting. I will be watching more and I hope to learn more. Thanks for making these videos.

[@adamsmith9636]

Mines the same color if you decide to part out I could use a few parts depending on the condition

[@cayankeelord3730]

Hey, It's only been a couple of days. Offer him the $1000 he paid for it. Hell, the front grille & bumper assemblies are worth that much alone. Tail lights on ebay are $100+ each. Take the parts you want, part out the rest and you'll probably make some money on it with a little bit of work.

[@redrockplumber5124]

I appreciate your transparency.

[@Th3Think3r]

Yikes, that's too bad. My guess is the shop way overcharged the seller with the pricey replacement cost because the customer was likely too ignorant to understand what they were getting for the money. Then the customer's lack of vehicle knowledge translated into them not noticing the engine was shot until after the warranty expired. They were understandably upset and the shop tried to make the customer go away by providing your info. Whatever the case, we all live and learn. I hope you're able to recoup the $

[@projectmustardseed857]

Thank you for sharing.. I value your opinions and enjoy your rants.

[@wendymontie5660]

Can you maybe use it for a ‘here’s how I use the amazing amount of tools in my epic stash’ series of videos? At least get some content? Even if not actually replacing parts, just how the tools are used?

[@juliocardona5699]

I subscribed to your channel a few days ago because I liked the honesty in your content, I'm just getting into the Subaru world, and this right here is an eye opener on how bad things can go, it can happen to anybody. Thank you for sharing, I myself just had a disastrous experience over a VW (Part of the reason why I'm here), I got so frustrated that I considered getting rid of all my tools and sell lemon juice on the streets 🤣🤣 hahahaha, the value of you sharing this experience is gold, Thank you!

[@melissasmess2773]

They’re generally 200,000 mile vehicles, oil leaks, cat failure, head gaskets and grenading pistons are all common. I’m on my 4th Subaru.

[@richroj]

that was a great video Mr. Subaru, I'm looking forward to your inspection video on the car. I enjoyed the video and I love my 2 Foresters 👍

[@BTP40]

Precisely why i love ur channel bro! My 05' outback just hit 245k thanks to your teachings Preesh

[@danlozza]

It's understood that a word is very important, but after inspection you should have got your money back obviously, the seller's word wasn't worth very much in this instance so it should be an even deal. Good luck and great content as always

[@Aikagi000]

Art! Use it as a canvas for all the sticker swag you get from all the tools and stuff. Or do it up with your logo and color scheme, then mount it on like an off road looking fake rock display. Sort of like what you would see at a car show for jeep or something. Or, lol a gimmicky camper just as a fun thing out somewhere in the bushes as an out door sleeper. It's functional use is gone so may as well use the body for something.

[@markkaplan1949]

Well...good on ya for putting up the video. You didn't have to, be ya did. Good man.

[@kevinsmith7010]

2008-2009 are my favorite body style for the outback. Am I the only one? 😅

[@Radignostic]

big same (i have one in satin white pearl)

[@ryebr_ead]

2000-2004 is my personal fave

[@chasedyer5950]

Not a fan, but it's way out-done by the ugliness of the 09 Forester

[@adamsmith9636]

No i love this body style I have wanted one so 3 years ago I got one and its the same color as this one with 202,006 miles had 188,000 when I bought it .

[@zbrown362]

I love my 05 it still looks like it did when it was new it’s aged well

[@fatalframe45]

I have an 08 outback. 173k miles. Transmission was really jumpy and would make a metal clack going into 3rd. And downshifting to first. Also Learching forward comming to a stop. Changed the transmission filter and fluid. I love the look of it. Hoping it will lask to 200k.

[@johnnyq1233]

Well, don't feel too bad... I just had my '05 Outbacks head gaskets done just 2 weeks ago to the tune of 4000.00!!!! I live in Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba to be exact and to buy a vehicle that will pass safety is going to cost more than 10,000.00. I've had this car for 7 years and it has been very good and reliable. While I personally think that 4grand to do head gaskets is a bit much, I can't do the job myself so I am at the mercy of the mechanic. I've seen two or three '05 Outbacks for sale in Winnipeg and they are asking 9700.00 for them. Mine is paid off, so I don't have any debt on it and I figured that once done it will never need that job again. For a grand on an '09, if the trans is nothing more than a solenoid issue and the chassis is decent enough, then your head gasket job is basically your time and the cost of parts. I look forward to your next video on this one.

[@billderas3420]

Regardless...You are still my Subaru hero!

[@williamturner1441]

I am confident you will make lemonade out of the lemon

[@RougeDeBlah]

Lemonade is disgusting, orange juice is much better

[@CourtesyToot]

That's what the seller's shop said before graciously referring Mr. Subaru xD No big deal! if it makes us viewers happy anyway

[@rolotomase1440]

Maybe this car is a good candidate for a "what not to buy" and "what it looks like when it's bad" buyers guide video? This is what a leaky head gasket looks like. This is how you check the AC. This is what to watch for in a transmission. Initial costs, potential repairs, etc. In my area of the Northwest a good running but high mileage (head gaskets done) Outback/Forester etc. goes for about 5k and when they are posted on FB or CL - they are gone quick. It is very common for people to buy cars like this for 1k and take them to a shop to get repaired to be their daily driver. Thank you.

[@OnkelPHMagee]

One thing that I really appreciate about you is your integrity. You own the good with the bad. If you have too many cars in the yard, what's the status of the Volaré? If you want a guinea pig for a few 4EAT videos, my 2009 Outback Limited is available. 😃

[@dogsbyfire]

You’re a good dude and you deserve better

[@CouchMan88]

The $5500 price isn't what I have a problem with. It's that after spending that amount the job seemingly wasn't done properly and the parts used were junk. $5500 for a replacement engine, removal and disposal of the old engine, timing belt job, all the fluids, belts, hoses and miscellaneous parts along with engine installation isn't terrible if the job was actually done right as you said. For what this customer got it's a waste of the shop's time and the customers money. I knew a guy with a Subaru who had the same experience and after the second engine he finally sold the car and bought a Honda.

[@KentuckyRanger]

It's such a shame. My first Subaru, was the 2009 H4 Outback, and I loved that car! I traded it in on an H6 Outback in 2015, and will drive that car till the wheels fall off! I doubt if I'll ever buy another Subaru, because they did away with the H6, and I'm sorry, but turbocharging an H4, for just getting it to pull an Outback down the road, and not for a sports models, just isn't impressive, to me anyway... If they ever bring back the H6, I might look at one in the future. One thing I'll NEVER consider, is an EV Subaru...

[@daveweiland8433]

I have 2017 Outback 3.6r that I bought new. It's been epic other than the spark plug change. I haul trailers with it frequently. It's been epic in the snow (depending on tires). It never got stuck in the snow even with a poor choice of tires. I wouldn't buy the new turbo 4. Naturally aspirated 3.6 is perfect power for the Outback. The turbo 4 claims the same power but doesn't deliver like the 3.6. EPA test and regulations did away with the 3.6 I blame the gooberment!

[@KentuckyRanger]

@@daveweiland8433 Funny you bring up the spark plug situation, LOL! I replaced mine a few months ago, and Lord have mercy was that a chore! It really is a monster in the snow! The CAFE rules doomed the H6, so thank the government for that one! So many argue, that the turbo H4 is just as good as the H6. The ones who say that, have never driven a Subaru with the H6...

[@melissasmess2773]

H6 wasn’t as reliable as H4

[@KentuckyRanger]

Really?@@melissasmess2773 Do you have some data to back that up??? I now have 86k miles on my H6 2015, with no issues. I wonder what a turbocharged H4 would be doing at 86K miles...

[@daveweiland8433]

@@KentuckyRanger indeed the H6 is a beast in the snow and spark plug changes. Doomed by the gooberment for being a good engine. In the real world a turbo H4 is going to have more problems than the H6. The other commenter mentioned reliability. H4 isn't the same as a turbo H4. H6 will be more reliable than a turbo H4 just by basic engineering.

[@ytube777]

live and learn. thanks for the reminder to always check before buying.

[@freemulligans]

I said this before, I hope you are teaching, bringing on apprenticeships. You know you are a good communicator. Young people dream of college (like I did and did well), but now I wish I had a trade where I could teach.

[@mtashland1]

Fun fact, I put a new motor in my 07 forester ay 205k, at 215k the 4eat final drive bearing gave up and no one wanted to fix it. So new trans at 215k it was. The jasper reman was 5000 for full install.

[@shuba097]

I’ve had nothing but problems with the 253 so I feel Mr Subaru there. I recently bought a 99 obs which the guy said it just had rod knock everything else is great! (It was an internet unseen one so I was like what the heck! Sure) it indeed did have rod knock. But it also! Had cut fan wires and stuffed back into the wiring loom, rear view mirror missing, sun visors missing, and the list continues. Still working through stuff

[@melissasmess2773]

My 2001 outback has a very slight rod knock at start up until the engine warms up. It seems I can keep driving it for many years at the rate of mileage that I put on it, it’s a winter beater. Good luck!

[@shuba097]

@@melissasmess2773 my 00 outback has been the best subaru I have ever owned! It just keeps going and going.

[@master_moose]

I seem to remember that you love the gen 2 Outback. What are some of the major differences (pros and cons) between the gen 2 and the gen 3? I love the look of the two toned olive green gen 3s and I occasionally see an H6 model for sale and consider "upgrading" from my '03, but haven't pulled the trigger yet. This video made me think I should just keep my Tortoise on the road for as long as possible because there is no upgrade.

[@toddb930]

Oh, man, that sucks! We all live and learn.

[@WholeCosmos]

Honesty is hard to come by these days so I really do appreciate videos like this VS the "look at how cool I am videos".. Bravo for admitting your mistake so others might avoid taking a hit. If you use it as a parts car you'll probably get your money's worth back eventually. its a shame you never did a STI drive video.... good job on that car BTW too good a car to be trashed in a junk yard.

[@frankpattijr4718]

No one should ever get screwed over I hope you make good on it

[@PianoRevisited]

One of my main life guidelines, along with "actions speak louder than words", is " everyone wants to part you from your money ". If you keep that last one in mind it's much harder to get ripped off.

[@joel530johnson2]

I once bought a used Subaru. Even after having Subarus for years I saw this one and bought it. It wasn't until later I found out that it had been in a major accident. I traded it in for a new one and never bought a used car since. So when an expert gets "ripped off" I feel a little bit better.

[@blueheelerfriend8450]

We all get got once in awhile don't feel too bad about it!! At least you have the know-how and connections to make it worth something if you want. 👍😊🤝

[@petergarofolo9385]

Sorry to hear. Next time you'll know what not to do. Good video 👍 👍

[@homebound-g3o]

I just went through this dilema with my 2016 Kia sportage. Engine blew and the best I could find was a engine and labor that was going to run 3500 total for a 6month warenty. I chose to sell it out for junk because the engine I was getting to replace my old one was the same crap 2.4 GDI. Glad I made the right choice.

[@totalphantasm]

Definitely wouldn’t mind a video on troubleshooting that 4EAT. I’ve got an Outback encroaching on 250 and that reference just in case would be nice

[@feelingsugoi]

I’m looking to buy a 2003 forester x with 251,000 miles on it and this used car dealership is asking for 4000 do you think it’s worth it for that amount of mileage and what should I look out for I know about the head gaskets but I would assume with that amount of mileage the owners had already changed that but I’m not sure if I should go ahead and buy or look somewhere else. Thanks Mr Subaru for all your help and I love your videos ❤ keep them coming 👍🏽

[@melissasmess2773]

I’ve been a mechanic for 35 years and owned for Subarus. Don’t waste your money on that please. It’s at the end of its life.

[@boatman222345]

I've got a great slightly used bridge in NYC I'll let ya have for a song!

[@Josefx3m]

I got screwed on a 2010 outback. Drove it home from the car dealer and the crankshaft broke after a couple of miles. Dealer took no responsibility so I had to sue someone for the first time… let’s see how it goes. 🫰Oh and btw there is an exactly the same outback, same year color etc as in this video imported from usa here in sweden. Same yellow light and problems and probably lots of problems not mentioned in the ad. 😂

[@shout-outtohumans1160]

I'd love another sky blue legacy like behind you.

[@scottmcd5885]

Definitely interested in why A/C isn't working. Replaced o-rings & valve stems on mine and charging the system only cools marginally. Maybe a video on troubleshooting the compressor???

[@gm-zz8so]

Use it for learning videos on KZbin. Should be interesting.

[@Marianna-b9v]

If this counts I'd LOVE LOVE LOVE a video of a breakdown of a 4EAT tranny. I have a 2004 forester 2.5 xs with 234k miles. Head gaskets needed to be done yesterday but blue devil is getting me by until I can get another car running to work on it. BUT my tranny surges in the summer and only in the summer. Surges going from 2nd to 3rd only and only on hot days when the AC is on. I've done a flush, regular fluid and filter changes and it works amazing in the winter. Idk I'm waiting for one or the other to go out so I can use this as my practice car!!! I LOVE your videos and your info!!

[@davidthurman2267]

No good man. Hopefully something good can still come from it

[@florinel181]

You ain’t lost nothing, the previous owner did . God bless him !

[@anthonyramirez458]

Similar situation as you, i got screwed on an 06 Legacy, had blown up EJ253. I installed a junkyard engine in it, with "low miles". Took care of it & drove it for 60,000 miles with little to no issues before someone totaled it.

[@BMMEC2009]

We have a 2008;l.l. bean limited. With a 4 cylinder. It was bought from a engine dealer and my mechanic re did the head gaskets and timing belt. and all the parts. Now it needs the lower control arms replaced. It's time to get another Toyota like our Tacoma.

[@jesswhitmore5358]

Definitely interested in you tearing into the 4eat. Mine is acting funny, and torque binding.

[@Savannahjbo]

I have a 2010 outback part out at the shop in Savannah if you need anything.. seats and wheels Im keeping .. hit in the front.. engine spins over fuel line n battery cables cut ( i guess from firedept)

[@robertcochran7103]

I'm very sorry this happened to you. About the engine. A long time ago, my Toyota needed an engine replacement. It was really using up a lot of oil. The shop recommended replacing the engine. I trusted them to do the job right because that was all I could do. I have no expertise with assessing engines or replacing them. That shop has dome good work in the past, they had fixed my wife's car nicely, and I felt some trust in them. I have no idea where the replacement engine was sourced from, nor was I told. I also had no idea of pricing for engines, whether for a new or used unit. I simply paid and was glad to have the car back and running well. I think most people face this same thing. One has to trust a shop to do the work correctly and price fairly. I have worked long years in my own profession, but I do not know beans about auto repair shops.

[@jamesgeorge4874]

I got a '14 Legacy limited for $450, the LR wheel was ripped off in an accident. $350 got all the parts needed to fix (mechanically) , just minor damage to the rear bumper. It's actually in very nice shape otherwise, but It's already sold because I'm not a huge fan. Then I bought an 09 Outback with jumped timing belt for $400, it's also in very nice shape but has 273,000 miles. Our shop has two EJ25 core engines for parts. Should be a decent flipper as well.

[@07LUTE70]

Before I bought this 2012 I heard what a great vehicle Subaru's are. Now that I own my 2012 outback I'm hearing all these horror stories about Subaru . I thought to myself I just traded my very reliable never gave me a problem Ford Ranger for this? I hope this isn't a bad omen. Which would go right along with the Murphys LAW I usually have. But I can see where boxer engines would have piston ring problems because the piston wells sit horizontally and the probability of wear problems is greater.

[@TK-ff5kc]

I make it a rule to not buy any auction or repairable unless I can put eyes on it first. Learned that lesson the hardway

[@subarutime5089]

Don't let success get to your head dot let failure get to your heart ❤️

[@missingnoxpert5750]

looks like this car has a lot of potential for a ton of videos though...

[@nickp.4915]

I realize this is not the same model or age of Subaru, but to give an idea of what some of this stuff can cost... I just finished replacing an FB25 in my 2014 Forester with 172K on the clock. My original engine suffered the crappy rings oil consumption and eventual death due to low compression and burning a qt of oil a week problem. My Forester was a very early 14 model actually built in early '13 and I drive quite a bit so by the time Subaru identified and offered relief to owners with the oil consumption issue I was already far outside of the mileage they were willing to help on. Considered scrapping it, but for the cost of vehicles these days decided to get it back on the road. Picked up a used 2014 motor from a rear end totalled 2014 Forester from LKQ online. Engine had 57K on the clock. Engine shipped to me was $1600+ ~$300 freight = $1900 was going to do the swap myself but a friend hooked me up with a local garage that was willing to do the swap for me. Most garages in this area (Chicagoland suburbs Aurora area) WILL NOT do this as they are afraid you will try to hold them liable for any unforseen post swap issues, but this place was cool with a LABOR ONLY deal to do the swap for me. Cost was $800 labor and I supplied the required fluids (coolant and oil, oil\air filters and belts) at their request. Had the Forester towed there for $75. Garage had it for four days and told me it was done, to come get it. Uber'ed over there for about $25 The tech said while the engine was out he put new spark plugs in before install (charged me $50 for the new plugs and the plug install was included in the $800) Picked it up he informed me of the engine light showed me the code for the common valvebody solenoid issue and that there were no other codes. Said he was sorry he really wanted to give it back to me with no lights on but that was outside of what he could do for the agreed $800 and offered me a discount the next time I bring some work to his garage. He didnt know it but I knew about the valvebody code before I took it in to the garage. So picked it up and paid the garage $850 so I was in 850 + fluids + uber\tow 100 + engine 1900 for a total of ~$2925. The replacement engine is great feels nice and strong compared not only to the low compression pull (haha) but is even stronger than my 2020 Forester. Thing actually has a really nice strong pull now! As these things go I took it home. I was going to do the valvebody work myself and replace just the bad solenoid (you can get individual solenoids new from Rock Auto ~$50) but decided I was already in for ~$2900 and the rest of the valvebody had solenoids with 172K on them so I decided I would use @MrSubaru1387 code and sponsor to buy the replacement valvebody and only go in there once as opposed to several times down the road when other solenoids fail. So ~$700 later for that and four hours of my time and the valvebody has been replaced (Thanks for the valvebody vid MrSubaru!!!) so I am in ~$3625. No yellow dash lights. CEL gone, code gone! Well as these things go.. haha the 2014 is back to my daily driver no check engine lights... and then after a month or so... ABS/Hill assist and Traction control? lights all come on randomly at the same time... Replaced the brake switch... no change researched that if the alignment is off and you already replaced the brake switch and the steering wheel is not centered this can be a secondary reason for the christmas tree to light up! OK will need new tires soon so will wait for the tire swap and do the alignment then. Live with the random christmas tree light up until then. In the mean time front brakes hit warning indicators. Replaced pads myself ~$40 literally two weeks later the rear brakes hit the indicators another ~$50 for rear pads... hmm what'll be next hahaha! For the ~$3700 I am in total I guess I am still happy it does have 175K on the clock now, almost time for an oil change, but now my 2020 sits in the garage more often and is NOT racking up all the extra miles the 2014 continues to put on... :)

[@rayocampomonasterial5857]

Mr.subaru it happened to me too got screwed pretty good without checking or driving the car. realizing all wheel bearings are done! and full of hail damage not seeing it as the car was covered with snow! bought it off east asian.

[@Shawn-pk4hc]

I have a 2009 Outback XT Limited. The engine went during Christmas holidays and I live over an hour from any town up north near Montreal. I had the engine replaced for 5K by the only mechanic open and nearby and he charged me that for a junkyard salvaged engine. So this is weirdly relatable. unfortunately it was all I could do so I was stuck having to just replace the engine so I can keep up with the daily grind while everything was closed and booked for weeks. Replaced the solenoids and a bunch of random stuff and it seems to be working almost fine now. There are transmission codes P0700 transmission issue but I just found out that you can update the TCM through subaru if that cars VIN is part of a software recall. So its not as bad as we may have assumed 🤞🤞🤞🤞🤞🤞🤞

[@egx161]

Wow. How does a mechanic not check a used car? Pre purchase inspection no matter what. Kudos for admitting this and showing us that this can happen, that people can be dishonest. But man. wow.

[@davecurry8300]

Listen to the start of the video. He explains all. Wow !

[@veronicalane1458]

I have a 2005. Outback, I could use 2 passenger side doors, and Rear quarter panel where the Gas goes in. I side-swiped a tree. It’s all pushed in!

[@HiroCreates3747]

Bummer dude. Thanks for sharing with us though.

[@SERBIAZ]

The Brady Bunch episode comes to mind. Caveat emptor! 😜 Greg buys a lemon.

[@wporsche9119]

Wow That one hurts Just part it out after you do the inspection. Move on Definitely a lesson learned Love your channel What are your favorite Outback years and engine combinations

[@quademasters249]

Every used car needs to be treated the same way. Always do your due diligence. I don't care if you're getting it from family or a friend. Most people don't have the faintest clue about what's up with their cars. Like the seller here, likely he got taken to the cleaners with this "new" engine. When someone tells me they had to put an engine in the car, I usually trust it less. Only the factory can put one together the best. Everything else is 1/2 assed. Depending on the rust, I don't think $1000 is too bad for this.

[@billpeterson6738]

That's a shame. It's clear that someone wasn't acting ethically. But we don't know who. So, my free advice is to move on from this, be attentive in the future, but don't give up on us humans. Some of us are honest Joe's who are worthy. Keep up the great work Mr. Subaru.

[@johnt.848]

I'd say that someone was the previous mechanic that scammed the owner.

[@geraldyates8958]

For $5,500, I would’ve sold them a new OEM short block, rebuilt the heads (with OEM MLS HG’s), Aisin timing belt/water pump kit, and installed.

[@BrianBoru-nq6qj]

Reminds me of The Bottle Rockets song, "1000 Dollar Car". Sorry it happened to you. We viewers got the benefit from your honest review.

[@hhattingh]

Start a restoration series. That would be incredible to watch for DIY'ers like me that never get to see beginning to end of something like this. Never let a good crisis go to waste ~ Winston Churchill

[@802Garage]

Man... As soon as you drop your guard, huh? Reminds me of the 2002 WRX I bought where the kid told me one story and then his friend private messaged me and said he knows that two bottles of head gasket fix were dumped into the car. Was also told the auto trans quit shifting while driving one day, turns out it happened while he was doing donuts. Womp, womp. I got it cheap enough I couldn't lose, but not fun to be straight up lied to. I had even checked the radiator cap for evidence of head gasket fixer, but forgot to check the swirl pot cap. I don't actually think it had a bad head gasket, but not happy all the fixer was dumped in.

[@AlanMillerFencepost]

I'm about to get rid of a 2010 Forester at 142k and was thinking the only issue was an AC leak, but as I've looked more I've started wondering if it has head gasket problems. Haven't dug into it much, but now I'm thinking about asking less because I don't want to screw the buyer. I doubt it ever had a head gasket replacement - certainly not since I got it in 2018 at ~107k.

[@dougwalton4831]

Speaking of transmission, my speedometer stopped working & was told the output speed sensor is bad . & if so where is this sensor located? Thanks for any help ...08 tribeca automatic transmission & I got screwed on this one also its a $$$ pit !

[@kilcar]

I never sell a high mileage ( or any car) without replacing brakes, front end seals, or ANY critical part. I am sorry you got screwed on this. I don't want unsolved major probs on my conscience. I imagine someone stranded on the road somewhere, maybe with kids or seniors. I feel good knowing when I sell a car that the new owner knows ALL potential probs. The Golden Rule applies, even to auto sales.

[@Mazdafan59]

Most of family have subarus. I would love to have it for a grand. I am jealous of your southern cars. I live in Wisconsin. Subarus are so easy to work on.

[@brandonpetrilla1731]

Do the head gaskets and service the transmission, you could make it a decent first car for someone, The shop screwed these people over selling them a junkyard engine instead of a remanufactured unit from Subaru and pocketed the money, Flat rate has taken over and the screwing just keeps happening one job after another.

[@paultice610]

Head gaskets on my 09 Subaru Forrester with the same EJ. I’ve been leaking for four years not so much coolant more oil than anything else about a quart every 2500 miles coming up on 180,000 miles body and interior is in pretty good shape, not sure if I’m gonna fix it or just run it till it dies. I only paid two grand for the car 4 1/2 years ago that’s the way it goes sometimes

[@melissasmess2773]

My 2001 Outback has 190,000 miles and has overheated in only 100F weather a couple times in last two years. It’s a winter beater basically, do about 3-4,000 miles a year. I can probably keep driving it for winter for many more years. I bought it wrecked for $1,500 in 2008 so it’s all good either way and ugly 😆

[@neilh9442]

Thanks for sharing the fail. I've faith you're just too skilled and clever to not break even somehow. As a subie shepard, maybe your flock needed a sacrificial? Lol.

[@fulltimetrader48]

When in doubt, part it out! Its worth way more than 1,000 in parts.....

[@Mike_44]

Happens to the best of us. I myself got screwed with my last ‘05 OBXT, had way too many issues. The car is a lot better now than when I bought it but I ended up selling it. Should have gotten an ‘04 n/a instead.

[@cennsa140driver]

Well, you will never do that again! That what not kills you makes you stronger! I've only pulled a Subaru engine a few times so I'm a nubbie but I can have a 2.5 out of an Outback and on the engine stand in just under 2 hours!

[@warnerr5061]

I feel obligated to check the head gaskets on my 15 crosstrek now 👀