Why Subarus Are So UNreliable!!! Buckle Up!!!

[@losdc5185]

As a long time Subaru service technician myself, I can 100% vouch for the amount of time we get younger owners of the turbo charged models that completely destroy these cars and have the audacity to blame the brand for the vehicles failures. And we as technicians suffer greatly due to most of these repairs being warranty and having to eat poor labor times due to the owners mistreatment. Subarus are absolutely great vehicles when properly maintained and cared for. I love the brand but I hate some of the owners loll. Had to subscribe after watching this rant lol!

[@losdc5185]

@@samerawaragi3041 Subaru has certainly acknowledged the fact that some of our engines are known to fail oil consumption tests and have reached out to the customers and have had the short blocks replaced as a result. What I’m trying to say in my comment is when u have a customer that decides to drive A Subaru very roughly as if it were a Honda which it is not as mentioned in the video, and neglect to take care of the car and complain why things aren’t lasting like they should. That’s all. All car brands have their issues but when u mod and beat up a car and don’t treat it nicely, the blame has to go to the owner and not the brand.

[@robertd5789]

@LosDC5 i just got my dream car. A 2019 STI and i was wondering if you can point me to where i can find all the maintenance scheduling i need to keep this car in the best condition so i can keep track of it and set reminders andogs for this car. I want this thing to last as long as possible. Really want it to be one of those "man they dont have many of those anymore" kind of car later on.

[@losdc5185]

@@robertd5789 So my suggestion to you in that regard is to invest in good oil delivery components. The Sti and older wrx suffer a lot from oil starvation. I believe IAG makes a reinforced oil pickup and baffled oil pan. That will eliminate any oil starvation. The oem pickup is plastic and is very prone to failing over time. Besides that, change your oil every 3k miles. Make sure the brake fluid and diff fluid is replaced every 30k or so. And as far as mods, u can run pretty anything you want with a reliable tune. But be mindful off your power goals. Any hp goal more than 400 will require serious internal engine upgrades. However any bolt on mods like downpipe, Intercooler, exhaust system, AOS, etc will make the car very solid for everyday driving and the car will be very reliable. So long as you keep tabs on oil level and other regular maintenance!

[@daves5379]

I agree completely I worked as service manager and advisor with Subaru since 96 until retiring in 2020 and did many many turbo engines simply because oil changes not done, modern young people don't believe in simple maintenance!!!!

[@bigredwrx4313]

Very true

[@cycleguy666]

Subaru has to start turning away the abused cars and modified cars for warranty work!! Worked for VW for over 30 year and saw some crazy 🤪 modified cars ...... Vw/Audi started turning the cars down for repairs!! ECUs store some rather wild data the public can not see!! I had a GTI Golf achive an engine speed of 10500 rpm!! The engine exploded!! In court the owner admitted to shifting to first gear at 70 mph!! Warranty Void!! Modern cars won't pull to those speeds......the Rev limiters won't allow it!! Another lowered the car and wore the oil pan through!! Siezed the engine!! Warranty Void!! Loved them all!! Great rant Mr Subaru!! 👌

[@winnepeterson6570]

I’ll be buying my first Subaru this Spring when the 2025 Forester comes out. I’ve researched it and its competitors for two years and was indignant when I saw the title of this video. Having watched it though, I thank you for making it.

[@labgramma]

As someone who owned a company that rebuilt Subaru engines and shipped them worldwide, I can attest to the absolute truth of what MrSubaru is saying. Don't maintain or poorly modify your Subaru and you WILL screw up your engine.

[@blackliver08]

How exactly do I keep them maintained? What driving habits, things to check for, and so on, do I have to do? I want to test drive this 2022 baseline wrx

[@labgramma]

@@blackliver08 2 things: change your oil religiously every 3000 miles (using a Subaru filter) and never, ever let it overheat. Install an aftermarket temp gadget if you don't have one). 5w20 full synthetic is recommended for at least the first 100,000 miles. I personally like synthetic blend in my 09 Forester because it doesn't consume as much oil at 220,000 miles as full synthetic. Use the recommended coolant and change it yearly. Check and top off all fluids at least once a month. These are the absolute basics.

[@fil1329]

@@labgramma I changed my coolant in my hyundao after driving it for 7 years on the green stuff Ethylene glycol .......never had problems......I tow with it .....never over heats

[@no1washerezz]

disappointing. subaru engines are unreliable when you compare them to something like a honda where you could beat the snot out of meanwhile you'd have to baby a subaru flat 4... they can be reliable but i feel that an off putting reality is that they are not very reliable relative to other engines.

[@Onneff69]

@@no1washerezz They aren't, despite the apologists.

[@ericMT]

I 100% agree with not using cheap aftermarket replacement parts. Buying OEM Subaru parts is not that expensive and they work so much better in most cases. Same with mods. Don’t buy cheap junk, it ends up costing you more later when you have to replace it. I learned the hard way. My 02 EJ20 WRX has over 190k miles on it and still runs great. Still on the original head gasket too. Even if the engine fails, I feel like I got my money’s worth out of the current engine. And thanks to what I’ve learned watching Mr Subaru’s videos, I feel comfortable either rebuilding or replacing it since I really love that old car. I also can’t afford a new $40k+ STi, as much as I’d like one.

[@MarshaJ8800TU]

I just replaced an aftermarket AT fluid filter that refused to seal properly with a Subaru one... Was trying to save $20 on a part that will last another 100,000 miles.

[@KB_31785]

I totally agree with you. Spend that couple of dollars more and get your money's worth.

[@whiskeyandbikes]

My 02 Ej has 203k. love that car

[@electroevolution5777]

YES YES YES YES. I had a wheel speed sensor issue on my 09 wrx and had to get a new axle (dont ask). Got an aftermarket axle and it caused all sorts of problems with the tonar ring and and the sensor. I cheaped out by literally 40 dollars and ended up paying closer to 400 to fix something I should have done in the first place.

[@paulb4496]

Teachers and Cheapskates love Subarus. I was a Major Appliance repairman for 27 years. I can tell you from personal experience that these people are the "Customers from Hell". Unthankful, Disloyal, Unappreciative, Rude, Impossible to reason with. I FEEL YOUR PAIN! I Now do Commercial HVAC and have minimal interaction with people. What a relief. Anyone who doesn't deal with the public DOESN'T UNDERSTAND. After 27 years it was like GROUNDHOG DAY...The same day over and over. "NO THANKS" Bless you "Mr. Subaru" for what you do. And I love your videos.

[@802Garage]

I love a good MrSubaru rant! Buy the cheapest components, buy the cheapest fluids, put your maintenance off as long as possible. The perfect formula for blaming the manufacturer! I like a good meme as good as the next guy, but social media has truly beaten Subaru jokes to death. The spread of misinformation is endless. Some people do it intentionally for views. Many people actually believe you need to pull a Subaru engine to do spark plugs. The old NA engines, Subaru, Honda, Toyota, could tolerate bad mods better. Turbo engines need tuning. I'll be the first to say Subaru isn't perfect, they aren't. I'll also say there are other brands which do some things better. To say the brand is unreliable or poor quality though is purely false.

[@detectivebloor4011]

The spark plug thing always makes me laugh. It’s a tight space but it’s still obscenely easy to do

[@802Garage]

@@detectivebloor4011 Depending on the Subaru it's 10 minutes to maybe at most 45-60 minutes, provided you aren't dealing with an ancient rust box. People will believe anything.

[@dominicancheif117]

@@detectivebloor4011 Woth the right tools**. I tried it over the summer and it took me like 3 hours to get the back two because of how close they are to the frame and had to get different size attachments from the auto parts store for my torque wrench. But it can be done without taking the engine out for sure

[@detectivebloor4011]

@@dominicancheif117 the trick is to get good at feeding the socket and extension into the plug hole on their own, then attaching your socket/torque wrench once you’re fully seated on the spark plug. Saves you the crucial centimeter or three that you need to fit in there. Most people who move over to subarus are just used to having the plugs angled up and out, right in their faces as opposed to on the sides of the engine

[@jclarkj6]

225,000 on 2003 WRX, original clutch, timing belt was replaced at 120,000 (it looked new) - Upper Peninsula road salt is what destroyed the car. Wish I could buy the same car new today.

[@danilyegorov2207]

Subaru tech myself. We did amateur rally competition for about 9 years now. Blew up 2 motors and 1 5speed manual, not a bad statistics. About 5 years ago I finally built a motor myself. Drove that thing to multiple podiums, 2019 PMSC rallycross champion with 4 full seasons of rallycrossing and 5 years of daily driving that vehicle (spirited) and had 0 issues with the motor. Change your oil, change your plugs, keep and eye on leaks and it will last longer than Toyota

[@costasali2212]

Change it myself or take it to a dealer? 😂

[@goatlocker219]

Not a chance. Subarus are hot garbage. I paid $44k for an engine that didn't make it to 70k. No mods, both drivers over 40.

[@jessejames6106]

@@goatlocker219how often where you changing your oil?

[@goatlocker219]

@@jessejames6106Ever scheduled maintenance was done at the dealership. There was absolutely no long oil changes or overdue maintenance. When I took the engine apart, it was the most fragile piston piston I ever felt. The metal is very brittle. Being cast pistons, they are so light, I would hesitate to use them as paper weights. The new IAG pistons feel nothing like the old terrible Subaru part.

[@k.c4931]

I used to own a G35 that I can beat the crap out of while it was burning through a quart or two of oil a month. Sold it and got a Bugeye and everyone including myself thought I made a huge mistake. Turns out this is one of the easiest cars to do maintenance on with OEM parts still available at a relatively affordable price. I learned so much about cars doing work myself. Maybe it’s the people saying it’s unreliable so I pushed myself to always be on top of everything happening with the car. Treated the car good and the car never let me down. Dare I say WRX are the best bang for the buck cars you can buy today. Practical and fun. Will always own a Subaru in my life.

[@timmay6713]

Still rockin my 07 g35 coupe at 265k miles. Had one oil leak issue that was fixed at 200k. I’m hoping it hit 500k

[@benjaminbills1998]

I just picked up a Forester with a blown head gasket and rod knock. I drive a G35. Wish me luck 😂

[@LabiaLicker]

I think the new ones are crap. Compared to the old school but yeah 100% agree

[@tear728]

The g35 was a bulletproof car that you could beat the absolute crap out of, never maintain, and never have a problem lol

[@petset77]

Bugeye... as in Sprite? (Austin Healey, 1958-1960).

[@spdkills83]

I agree, have had Subaru for the last 18-19 years or so now and never not once did it leave me stranded. Worst issue I ever had was the radiator end tanks on my 02' WRX started to separate after roughly 2-3 years of ownership and was replaced under warranty. That car lived a long life, as did my 09 STI. Proper maintenance and common sense can and does go along way.

[@charlie4649]

What do you mean by proper maintenance ?

[@charlie4649]

Is replacing the oil pump at 20k proper maintenance to you? Is that reasonable to you ?

[@dracphelan]

I knew this was going to be about the owners. I bought a 2006 Outback with 260,000 miles for $2000. I replaced the clutch, the rear wheel bearings, timing belt, and some seals at the front of the engine. I used good parts. And, it has been dead reliable since then.

[@MrSubaru1387]

Awesome!

[@grzegorzkajda8339]

I am from Poland here in Europe Subaru is one the best choice what you can do. This car is very good like you sad when you maintain properly i totaly agree with you.

[@paulb2948]

I felt like I was in a southern Baptist church and all I was doing was raising my hands and saying amen everytime you hit a point....preach it! Amen!

[@wpgspecb]

Watch it in 1.25x its hilarious.

[@alexmobil7463]

lol!

[@nigozeroichi2501]

I'm totally with you, I'm a fan of boxer engines, I went off on a guy because he was talking $#!T about the type 1 VW beetles, he said " I had a beetle it was the biggest piece of **** the brakes sucked the heat didn't work and then the engine blew! " I asked him if he adjusted the brakes did you change the oil religiously did you adjust the valve lash at the required intervals, and so on, his answer was no, I gave him an earful about maintenance on cars that basically haven't changed since the thirties, just like you said don't blame the car or the manufacture for YOUR! (People that neglect and beat the crap out of a car) lack of care for your vehicle.

[@loganreynolds263]

A FREAKING MEN!!!! Thank you for making this. I get so sick of people constantly acting like Subaru makes junk. I've had 14 Subaru's now in every form from na ej22 cars to big turbo built ej257's and have never had a single head gasket issue or any engine failure. Ever. All it takes is some common sense.

[@jordanlatta]

I'm just curious... what was wrong with the first 13? I've not owned a subie yet but I want a 2.2 impreza in the near future.

[@loganreynolds263]

@@jordanlatta nothing, I still own 5 right now. I just wanted to experience the entire platform 😅

[@jordanlatta]

Sounds like I'm about to embark on an extraordinary addiction 😂

[@LusoiHardware]

I agree. They watch these KZbin videos of guys, I'm not going to name them, that claim to make upwards of 500 whp and think it's that easy.

[@laury.x]

Any experience with a jdm bp5 legacy wagon?

[@leland5519]

I was legit popping in here to see the mechanics behind why these things get such a bad rap. When you hit that first "is the ower" I literally fist pumped LMAAOOOOO. Rant was much needed. Glad you put it on blast.

[@aathmpsn]

I've gone through 5 modified WRX's, Foresters, GC's. I've also had a 2018 Outback and currently am in a 2020 Impreza Sport 5mt hatch. I can without a doubt, say that the factory engineered cars are better in basically every single way I can think. I'm so glad I'm over the modifying urge, sure they're cool, but cool doesn't get you to Home Depot and back without concern on the back of your mind. Not worth it.

[@benjaminboyer39]

There's no manufacturer out there I would say is the single best on Earth but I know for damn sure they're all better than me

[@omgness1234]

Don’t agree. Manufacturers have to make their cars at a certain price point, and balance performance with comfortability. If Subaru wanted to make the best Subaru they could, it would cost way too much.

[@latuba2478]

But I want to squeeze more out of the ej257. Ok so I build on its more flawed areas. Pistons, Con rod (really the rod bearings), and close the deck on the block. A Cool several thousand spent. Why do I still hear stories of these things blowing when built??

[@santouchesantouche2873]

@@latuba2478 I'd say there is a wide gap in workmanship at the auto shops people go to. Besides, once you change one thing you gotta change another.

[@Miuhauzen]

@@omgness1234 i agree but i’ll explain same time… subaru is not Ford or Toyota it’s small brand and they can’t invest money give us what we really looking for they are concentrated on fuel economy and family cars witch is suck for me i own 2 Subaru’s. 06 outback H6 and Ascent 2.4 Turbo you gonna kill me to drive damn 2.5 180hp no man not for me i need power and i don’t give a F… how much gas it use. I like bigger cars not huge bigger with acceptable power 280-350hp nothing for me i can’t have WRX STI because of family and what i’m looking for but they don’t care they can’t make me happy and spend more money then they do know… like me there is 10 from hundred…

[@ares333x2]

I did a COBB stage one on my 2015 WRX did track days and autocross. Did all the maintenance myself... I got a few million miles of commercial driving few thousand miles of off-road racing. The only thing that I actually broke in the car was I burned out the wheel bearings at about 50K... ( Sticky track tires) I was so impressed with the car. I am now proud parent of a 2022 Outback wilderness. Which I have taken on several mild Jeep trails. There are few cars out there that are as versatile and as fun to drive as Subarus

[@deniselorish5384]

Love the rant!! My husband daily drives a 1999 forester with 255,000 miles on it, and still running strong. She's old and out dated but still gets the job done.

[@MrSubaru1387]

Awesome!

[@shonancheta]

wife and I love the sf chassis forester. I have a 2nd gen now chassis and my wife has the 4th gen xt version, subaru for life

[@davepeters4955]

I'll take a 20+ year old car that I can rely on to get me where I'm going over a lot of newer, fancier cars all day..

[@mihazgajnar8227]

And my has only 195.000 miles. Great Car.

[@parkinson1963]

Outdated? My 99 400k has heated seats, heated mirrors the only thing outdated is those horrible touch screen things in the new cars.

[@Zekerbox]

I agree with your sentiments in this video. I am a Subaru and BMW owner/fan. I hate when people poorly maintain a vehicle and get upset when things break and fail. Cars are not engineered to be poorly maintained. I have a 2010 STi Hatchback and modify it and drive it hard and I check my oil all the time because the harder you drive the more oil you consume. Performance engines (like in my BMWs and Subarus) have higher oil consumption under higher strains. I also change my oil more frequently than necessary because of the harder work I put my cars under. I had a BMW that I would take to the track and check the oil after every time (3-5 laps) on the track because it would go through liters of it on the track under sustained hot and high RPM conditions. The general public should temper their expectations on what constitutes reliability. Reliability does not mean it should be poorly maintained and not break.

[@TwoDollarGararge]

Certain more simple and older cars take better to lack of or little to no maintenance ie older low compression v8's and NA Japanese 4 bangers

[@JenniLudes]

Owners can be unreliable...Unreliable owner, unreliable car, regardless of make. My dad always used to tell me "Take care of your car and it'll take care of you." I've owned many makes of cars and the same applies but Subaru is my fav. Had a '76 DL in the early 80's. Couple of outbacks (2000 and 2012) and impreza's (2003 and 2007) and now drive a 2016 crosstrek and 2019 STI. Never had the "gasket issue." Reliable as all get out cause I don't drive stupid and check change the oil/fluids/maint regularly as recommended or better. You're spot on with everything you said.

[@jimren5638]

When my daughter bought her WRX people were telling her about all these so called defects. A friend who knows his stuff told her "Do regular maintenance and don't live at red line. You'll be fine." I agree with him.

[@MiraSubieGirl]

For a car that revs out to 6500-7000... I always changr at 6000. Beyond that is just lost torque anyway.

[@GlycerinZ]

i recently replaced the head gaskets in my 01 Legacy EJ253..33 hours, but the car runs great. This Legacy was the first one that came into our family and the reason we all love Subarus

[@Dragunov302]

2001 is probably a ej251 unless it was swapped

[@1heavyelement]

Completely understand your frustrations. My wife complains about the cost of maintenance our cars need. But proper maintenance and they don't leave us stranded. I absolutely love our 2018 forester and would definitely buy another subby. Fyi we have a 2006 chrysler town and county with 217K miles and a passat with 177K miles. They all run perfectly from the regular maintenance and repairs they need at time. Except for the forester the chrysler and vw were bought new. Thanks mr Subaru. Love your channel.

[@GeorgeJFW]

Hahah you are completely right 😂 the sti wrx kids are responsible for 95% for the catastrophic failures I have seen in the 6 months since I started at the dealership. the doctors that do maintenance come in with old outback’s with 300 thousand kilometres on them and they are tight as a drum.

[@MrSubaru1387]

💯 💯 💯

[@deathtoming2201]

I’m in my 20s and I have a 99 Impreza with 350k miles and it dosnt miss a beat. The original owners took care and had it serviced regularly. The only thing that is going is the clutch and gear box even tho it still gets into gear fine it’s abit wobbly. Other than that it runs and sounds amazing never had an issue with it for the past 2 years owning it 🙏🏽

[@trevorshiffermiller2412]

@@deathtoming2201 when I had a 5 speed PT Cruiser I found that there were bushings on both ends of the shift cables from the shifter to the trans. Those got worn out and I was able to replace them easily with a polyurethane set that is still working great to this day! A friend of mine has the PT and I didn’t the same thing for y parents PT which are both happily on the road. Just something that you can check that may be the only issue.

[@GixxerRider1991]

Right. Some people act like engine and clutch break in periods aren't a thing.

[@danlevesque5437]

​​@@GixxerRider1991 I'm curious about how long a clutch actually lasts if taking care of (if anyone has a high milage record) I've been driving stick for 18 years and still haven't had a clutch fail all my vehicles were bought used in the deep rust belt and currently im at 90k/ 7 years on my current clutch and still going strong

[@raymullen8427]

Preach! Finally the truth. So many people assume turbo subarus are just "junk", but they last if taken care of. My old 2004 wrx lasted until 250k miles with everything original. It's all about the owner. Now I have an 06 wrx wagon with 127k. As soon as i got it i put about 2,000 dollars worth of parts in it for maintenance. Runs perfect and I'm sure it will last just as long as my old one.

[@Immortalcheese]

it's funny because all Subaru's cars are fairly reliable EXCEPT the STI/WRX? How would Subaru's flagship cars be the most unreliable. I really think it is the owners 95% of the time

[@dougeutsey9533]

That’s what I tell people Subaru can last but you can’t run them hard

[@Mike_44]

They’re so unreliable, I’m looking to buy another Forester, even if it’s motor has been overheated.. because I truly know how great these cars are.

[@mihazgajnar8227]

The same by me. Have Forester 2002 and Outback 2006 - Top cars. BMW - hah on slippery road and rear-wheel drive and weight/motor on front. And will stay on Subarus.

[@tomdfrog]

AMEN!😊❤ every time I hear someone complain about a Subaru, Honda or Toyota, it is always rooted in neglect. Either their abuse and neglect or the previous owners abuse and neglect.

[@orbitalgolem91]

Great video, all this needed to be said. I just replaced my '02 WRX that I had since new (June '01) with 244k miles. Totally stock, no tune. Synthetic oil changes every 3k-3.5k and coolant changed fairly regularly. Bubbles started showing in coolant tank at 243k and Subaru specialist indicated either head gasket or tiny crack in head. If it weren't for all the body rot, I may have had it fixed. Was I pissed? Hell no - 243k miles was impressive all the same. Original motor, exhaust (!), clutch, transmission, diff, steering rack, steering pump, AC compressor. The one issue with that EJ205 that haunted me the last 100k miles were random P0302 and P0304 misfires. Shops threw everything at it until final conclusion was likely tightening exhaust valves on cyl 4. Motor ran fine, the CEL would just turn on and off. Gave the car character. In the end sold it to a friend for $1k and bought a '21 WRX Base. That one will stay stock too.

[@MrSubaru1387]

Awesome life out of that WRX. ♥

[@jaybosher6144]

Subaru coolant lasts 10 years, why replace it regularly

[@jakebob5101]

We own a '11 Outback and '09 Forester and do the routine maintenance and fix what needs to be fix and never once have issues. It always boils down to the owner and how the cars are treated.

[@FranklinHicks-qs4gs]

How many miles you have on them

[@stevemartegani]

Also note: The dramatic increase in popularity of Subarus in the last decade+ has lead to a dramatic increase in haters. Popularity always breeds descent, regardless of whether or not its warranted.

[@MrSubaru1387]

Yup. 👍🏻

[@jd5179]

i have seen a lot 250k-300k miles subarus out there, never raced or abused . meanwhile- my brothers STI blew an engine at 30k - blamed the brand knowing he red lined that thing almost everyday.

[@jeremiahjorenby2275]

Guess me and my friend were unlucky with our SH Forester XTs. Previous owner of mine blew the factory gaskets at 213K miles, he was in his 60s, only highway drove the car, and had it dealer maintained. A friend of mine who also has an SH chassis Forester XT lost his factory gaskets at 160K. Both pushing coolant, both both caused by warped heads. Both cars also were on stock tunes with stock exhausts, stock turbos, stock intakes, etc. Most of the unreliability I have encountered has been the result of incompetent dealer techs who due to their work environment don't have time to read the service manual and end up fucking up the repairs. Aside from an airbag recall and an warrantied a/c compressor replacement, I have not had a single dealership repair last/or been done right on the first try. Had the tech actually read the helpful tips and cautions in the FSM, I wouldn't have had to bring my car back or redo the repairs myself a couple years later. For example: dealer replaced the 6 speed in my outback under warranty (with a good used one) due to a failed center diff, get the car home, gear oil pouring out of the front axle seals. What did the FSM say about replacing CV axles? 1) Before installation, check the drive shaft. 2) Replace the differential side retainer oil seal with a new part. • 6MT model: • 5AT model: • CVT model: It's literally step 2 🤦‍♂️. So they righted their wrong and replaced both seals right? Nope, they only replaced the one that was pouring fluid. So a month later, the other seal is still dripping a little so I have to bring the car back again. Same dealership did the headgaskets in my Outback and Forester XT (one was done before I owned it, the other as a discounted package deal shortly after I bought it.) and on both of those engines they used a scotchbrite roloc disc to prepare the deck surface (a big no-no you've already made a video on). The Forester XT which runs double atmospheric pressure blew the gaskets again 28k miles later, the outback with it's NA 2.5 made 55K before pushing coolant again. I just been taken for a ride by techs who didn't have the time or care to read or think about what they were doing. Luckily as a mechanical engineer, I've been able rebuild both engines and come up with very reliable combinations that can withstand being thrashed, but it didn't happen overnight (or cheaply!).

[@nowiecoche]

Two of the saddest Subaru stories here. Imagine not being a mechanical engineer and the same thing happened.

[@ironman1518.]

EXCELLENT VIDEO and explanations! I was in the motorcycle industry; sold parts, bikes, accessories. It was the same in that business also. SOME riders abused their bike (NO break in time wrong fuel/oil mix, over revved them till the blew up, etc etc. AND the abusers always blamed the bikes/manufacturers, (ROLL MY EYES).

[@danielleclark7652]

First and foremost, this video is warranted and your rant is a good one. It's also one I've heard from every Subaru mechanic I've ever talked to, and frankly, I agree with them. Proper care and maintenance is everything, no matter what you drive. That said, fair warning, y'all, this is gonna be a long one: In 2015, I bought a 2007 Outback 2.5i Basic 5MT with 86,584 miles on it. I've never gotten a clear image of the maintenance the previous owner did or did not do, so I feel like I've been playing catch-up ever since. I've done my best to maintain the girl, including paying a Subaru dealership to do the head gaskets on my engine about a year and a half after I bought the car (112,936 miles on the OD) because I didn't have the tools or the space to do it myself. I went ahead and had them do the 100K mile service at that time as well, but sadly kept having issues with oil, for lack of a better term, disappearing from my engine. It never leaked when parked, and it wasn't coming out the tail pipes ever - it just kept consistently vanishing. I was doing full synthetic oil changes myself roughly every 5000-6000 miles, but I often had to top up in between, and more than the .8 of a quart left over after filling the engine to 4.2Q each time. In this time, I did other maintenance - namely CV's, wheel bearings, and coil overs on all 4 corners, replacing each with OEM parts after discovering this wonderful channel on KZbin. In fact, other than the oil going missing between oil changes and a belt almost shredding itself on a 1500 mile road trip, my trooper of an Outback did really well - until the clutch went in late 2018 on another 1500 mile road trip. I was able to baby it enough to get her back home, but by that point, I'd glazed the fly wheel thanks to the weight I had in the back (I had gone to the middle of nowhere to rough camp for 9 days) and a freak rain storm making the highway treacherous in multiple places. Man, did that clutch job teach me how little I knew about working on Subaru's. Between waiting for parts, bad weather (I was working on it out in the open as I didn't have access to a garage or a shed), and finding other issues like bad gaskets in my exhaust and getting the wrong transmission seals from the dealership, it took me the better part of six months to get her back on the road. I did an oil change before driving her again, since I was worried about the oil possibly having broken down in the engine, but from that point on, she's been a bit of a lemon, never quite feeling like the solid car I'd loved for almost 5 years. In January 2021, she suddenly developed a smoking problem - every time she was driven or even started for more than a couple of minutes, smoke would come pouring out of the engine bay. Once again without a good place to work on her and knowing that I didn't know enough to tear into the engine on my own, I took her to the dealership again. Diagnosis - the cylinder head had warped and the valve guides had dropped causing cylinder's 2 & 4 to leak into the crank case. The dealer was able to find a rebuilt long block and so I let them do the swap, but shortly after I got her back, she threw codes again. This time, it was the catalytic converters failing, so I replaced them, but the issues still keep coming. At this moment, I almost don't even want to start her. I got codes for P0303 and P0304 after driving her 110 miles. I started with spark and replaced all four plugs, wires, and the coil pack (again, all OEM), but that didn't fix it. When started, she sounds like a diesel, but I haven't been able to get any more codes since I had to disconnect the battery to do the spark plugs. I am worried about damaging the engine, so I don't want to leave it running for long. The one time I did leave it running to see if the engine would smooth out, she almost died on me once she started to warm up. I'm at my wits end, and wishing I had just let her go when I found out about the engine failure. Friends and family think I should just sell her, but that feels morally and ethically wrong to me. I don't want to inflict my problem child on some poor bugger who thinks they're getting a good deal on something that's supposed to be reliable and doesn't understand that the "little lady" might actually know a thing or two about this car at this point. Through the magic of the internet (HA!) and my own past experiences, I've narrowed it down to fuel or air, but that leaves me with about 15-20 possible solutions. I figure I'll start with air and replace all the vacuum lines and the PCV valve, since those are all from my original engine, but if that doesn't do it, then I have to figure out where I want to go next. I'm not quite ready to give up on her, but I am beyond frustrated at this point. If anyone has any questions or suggestions, I have full records on EVERYTHING I've done or paid to have done since I bought the car, so I'll do my best to answer them. Suggestions are definitely welcome at this point, as I'm about 100 miles from the dealership who did the long block and the cats, so I'm trying to do this myself. If you've gotten this far, I thank you.

[@calebfitzgerald393]

Same story I hear all the time. I commented above about my mom owning a few of them they where all lemons even with a good maintenance schedule. As of now I work at a big salvage yard in Vermont and about 25 to 30 percent of our parts we sell are Subaru parts. Most of the other brands are like around 10 ish percent. Our company will buy a wrecked Subaru and sell most of the drive train within about a week. They aren’t very good cars unfortunately. They have a great driving experience and are fantastic in the snow but they need to make a more reliable drive train and then they really would be one of the best cars.

[@davidturner4987]

I just bought a 2008 subaru outback with 175,00 miles on it. When I first looked at it I could tell the original owner had the head gasket done. This car doesn't have a single leak. I put new wires, plugs and a coil on it, cleaned the throttle body and changed all the fluids and I love this car. I've bought everything from the dealer and I do not regret it at all. It might be more expensive but I can tell the quality is there. Your channel has been invaluable to me as I've learned about this car.

[@GaZaY0UTHchris]

"The main reason that Subaru's are unreliable..." Please say owners, please say owners ".... The owners" Me: *Wolf of wall street celebration* YES!!!!

[@GaZaY0UTHchris]

I have a bunch of Subaru's but my 300k+ mile 05 Legacy GT wagon that I bought when it was at 260k still has the factory block and the only problems I've had were constant vacuum leaks from almost every vacuum reference point due to everything being old. I replaced the headers and upgraded to ewg due to the fact the the flex joints all seemed to wanna have holes in them lol. Replaces all the rear control arms to spec b aluminium ones with new Polly bushes because they were all cruddy and shot, and squeaked.ive had the intercooler blow up twice so now it's an Aluminium one, and I have no complaints, I've loved every second of working on this car and none of this really has anything to do with Subaru reliability. I'm modified and tuned properly and I do drive it a little hard every now and again but I'm always checking fluids and doing services, letting it warm up properly when it's cold, and letting it cool down and cycle after having some fun... The only major issue I've had is the water pump seal failed and upon taking it apart to do the entire timing kit because why not, I nice it was sealed using not only the incorrect RTV but not the metal crush gasket. Surprise surprise, human error strikes again.

[@petkokrushev3840]

I have a built STI 2006 and I've used only the most expensive parts - Cosworth pistons, 12mm OEM oil pump, OEM brand new nitrided crank etc.. For example, many people put a lightweight crank pulley on their ej25, I've put a Fluidampr pulley. My maintenance schedule is as follows: Oil is changed every 3k km with Bardahl XTR 5w50 with Full Metal additive (no buts or ifs with this maintenance and yes it is expensive AF) Spark plugs are changed every 8k with NGK one step colder (mine runs around 400 bhp since I'm with hybrid vf37) Fuel filter is changed every 10km, yes the one in the tank,which is rated from Subaru for something ridiculous like 80k km My COBB filter is being cleaned every 1k km Car uses only 100 octane fuel Water coolant every 10k I check my coolant and oil at least 2-3 times a week and every single time I'm planning to drive hard, I'm even joking, that my bonnet is being opened more than my drivers door. I have Defi gauges for coolant temp, oil temp and oil pressure. I'm always waiting for the temps to be at their optimum, before driving hard and yeah, I drive it hard. Yes, it is a car that needs attention to itself, but it's a "rally" car for the street with a little bit more specific engine than the daily Corolla with 1.3. IF YOU ARE NOT READY TO MAINTAIN YOUR SUBARU, DON'T BUY IT IN THE FIRST PLACE!!!!!!!!

[@lendorlando156]

Video well received! I know I have mentioned this in the past but it bares repeating. I own a 2014 Impreza Premium 2.0l NA on its way to 200k. I always perform scheduled maintenance with Subaru OEM parts… no issues and I am not worried about the high mileage. I live in a condo complex and when I look out my front door my neighbor to the right has a 2007 Outback LL Bean edition while my neighbor to the left has a 2010 Forester 2.5l NA and a 2015 Impreza WRX 2.0l turbo. All these vehicles have zero issues and all have been properly maintained with genuine OEM Subaru parts. I know because I maintain them all. When my neighbors asked what manufacturer I recommend for driving in the Northeast I said Subaru. Unbeatable all wheel drive, cars are super easy to work on, and parts are cheap when compared to other car makes and models. True anything mechanical can fail and your going to pay if you want to play and play hard. However this can be avoided through proper care and maintenance and certainly should not be promoted through neglect and ignorance. Spun rod bearings can be avoided by checking the dipstick dip$&!@. FYI it is the one with the yellow ring end as seen in the video. FYI again all fluids you should check have a yellow cap or top! Subaru can only do so much to make things idiot proof. By the way Mr. Subaru you can shake some people all day long but if there’s nothing upstairs…there’s nothing upstairs.

[@96SN95]

When I was young, it was drilled into me that adhering to the maintenance schedule will make a difference. If you don't, and if you abuse the car, you will shorten the life of your car. Highest mileage I've taken a car was 312k. It still ran, I wanted to upgrade to something newer and nicer. When I tell people that, they are usually quite surprised and all I can say is "do the services, all of them, on time or a little early. It makes a difference."

[@BlackThugNasty96]

Man when i was getting a Subaru I was worried about all these rumors about being unreliable. I actually do buy all the right parts and HAVE to get a tune. Always do maintenance on your Subie and good mods with a tune always. I did a lot of research before buying myself one. Much love Mr. Subaru, you always help me out greatly

[@oxaile4021]

Meanwhile a riced out Civic with no maintenance and a borderline suicidal driver will still outlast it by a decade.

[@someblokeidk8565]

​@@oxaile4021 I mean, you ain't wrong lol

[@patriley9449]

This is why you should never buy a used WRX or STI unless you know who owned it previously. These cars are run to death by young drivers. Same with any performance car owned by young people.

[@hyperbluewrx]

I know my username is a Subaru but I don’t actually own one, YET! But my gosh the emotional roller coaster I have thinking about if it’s worth it to buy this sti I have wanted since high school based on all this hate and misinformation. I can only imagine how much harder it is to deal with as a Subaru tech/master mechanic… My parents have had a 2017 forester n/a since about 3,000 miles and only issue was a dead battery in 2020. I love every chance I get to drive it! Thanks for sharing the right information, it helps me feel confident that my dream to own an sti is reasonable and not something I should be sacred of owning!

[@prodbyahlecks]

Get it man it’s definitely worth it just take ur time finding a clean spec it’ll be worth it!

[@hyperbluewrx]

@@prodbyahlecks yeah, as soon as the market settles down, I’ll be looking for one!

[@prodbyahlecks]

@@hyperbluewrx very true the market is high right now, get a cheap daily and stack up in the meanwhile. I would definitely suggest having an extra car if ur getting an sti

[@7catalyst750]

Its about damn time someone with some actual creditability speaks up and says what I've been saying for years!

[@slippityslip6952]

Why are Subarus so unreliable? Lack of love & maintenance you bloody savages...

[@NR-it3pc]

Mr. Subaru. Thanks for being so informative regarding maintanence on a Suburu. Despite following every maintance interval on my low mileage 2016 Impreza 5 speed manual I got Torque binding at 65000 KM. It was especially pronounced after 15 minutes of driving and clicking noise when making turns. The cost of repair was so high that I opted to purchase another car.

[@musicalgreasemonkey]

PREACH. It speaks volumes that subaru is able to be that car company right now. Great video. Love my 06 outback 2.5i with 416k miles. Would rather do a head gasket repair properly on a subaru that needs it than who knows what else from another brand

[@glennkon]

My 2012 Forester non-turbo was burning a bit of oil, nothing crazy, but then it suddenly developed heavy knocking one week after a fresh oil change. The car had literally burnt all the oil off, no leaks anywhere.. it just torched it all. This seemed insane to me so I did some research, and it turns out that my year of vehicle along with a few others had a short block recall on the engine. However, when we brought it into subaru, they tried to hide the fact that there was already an ongoing law suit about it in the states. So instead of correcting the issue in the past, Subaru saw dollar signs. They had decided to ship the cars up here to Canada, and sell them like they were fine. After learning this, we fought back and forth with subaru and eventually they admitted to the problem and their decision to keep them in Canadian markets. They covered the 24 hours of labor and the short block replacement. That was at 100k km, now it's at 170k km and she runs like a dream. Never had a problem with oil burning since. I have no sympathy for people who mod their car right out the yin yang like you say, but there is also a chance that their vehicle was part of this group of problem engines. That problem, in addition to their idiocy of modification and maintenance, means that the car is sure to fail.

[@UnreachableSwagger]

I have a GC8 that has run for 4 years. And it at 230,000 miles. I thought it would blow sooner than that. I do my regular oil changes and it still runs. Its awesome. 2000 dollars well spent. I just bought 2 more GCs !

[@markrobinson891]

Whoa take it easy man! You did scare an old man with the opening. I’m one who has finally outgrown modifications and “driving the crap” out of my sub. I was relieved to hear Subaru failures are user failures.

[@trailrider1956]

I couldn't agree with you more. I've owned 5 Subarus in the last 35 years, starting with my 78 DL 4wd wagon to the 2010 Impreza I currently own. Not one of these cars has ever left me sit on the side of the road. I have always associated Subarus with reliability. I am a firm believer in keeping everything factory. I learned this the hard way modifying my Mustangs back in the 70's.

[@madlucio70]

Love your videos man! The rant is pretty dead on. My dad was a master mechanic for most of his life and was so infuriated at how people would abuse their vehicles and blame literally everyone but themselves :/

[@kevinm5177]

My 2019 WRX was used, clearly had an idiot as a previous owner. Tons of fasteners missing all over, broken parts, and a sticky spot on the dash where the tuner controller was. Fortunately they only owned it for 11k, I’ve fixed all the stupidity and it still runs great.

[@loren481]

Hopefully that sticky spot really was from a tuner controller....

[@dinomusi1982]

@@loren481 🤣🤣

[@davidsizemore1452]

Just purchased a 2023 crosstrek standard shift and I love it. It's not a speed demon, but at 30mpg highway, I'm not complaining at all. Trying to learn to do the maintenance myself, due to trying to save money. Your channel is a great help and the channel is also the reason I purchased a subaru.

[@GeoForge]

I enjoy fixing up old Subaru's and saving them from being scrapped. I drive a 96 legacy outback, switched out the old tired 2.5 with the ej 2.2. Had an idler pulley break on me on a road trip and the car kept going for 200 miles with jumped timing until I fixed it. They are built to last. Hoping to rebuild the 2.5 one of these days and eventually build a custom legacy outback something like the bg5 because everyone sees the STI and WRX going down the road but a costume built outback would be more unique and of course it would be done right so the headgaskets don't blow after 5,000 miles lol. Great video.

[@Mike_44]

They’re great cars to work on, reliable, durable, capable and versatile. Taking care of them, they easily last over 300K miles. I changed the OEM H/Gs with MLS H/Gs on my ‘01 2.5L n/a Forester, its motor never leaked ever again.

[@Tiny_Speck]

I had the same exact thing happen on my 96 Legacy Outback with the EJ25D. Idler pulley broke at 215k miles on a road trip. Luckily had it fixed at a dealership and the vehicle somehow didn't jump timing, so I still drive it 5 years later and it's almost at 250k miles. Nothing else has gone wrong since and I can't bring myself to sell it.

[@GeoForge]

@@Tiny_Speck You got really lucky that it didn't jump timing since the 2.5 is an interference engine.

[@lukeskywalker2982]

Good speech. I saw people blew up their WRX or STi on KZbin all the time, and all them are young and don’t know much about the costs to maintain their race car. I abuse my 2020 WRX STI all the time and it never had any problem. It’s because I do engine oil change with Motul 300V every 1000~2000 miles, it depend on how I drove it. change transmission and differential oil every 10000 miles, change water coolen, break fluid, power steering oil year. I also launch the car all the time, but in the right way to launch it that only ware clutch pads, and my clutch is still alive so far. It may sound expensive to maintain STI, but it’s not high cost to take care of your car compare to people whom blew up their engines. I also modified STI only with STI parts without touching ECU tuning. I know STI engine has potential for ECU tuning, but I rather not to use engine life to exchange hosper. WRX STi is a reliable car to own, but if you drive it mad, better make sure you pay attention and more money on maintain it.

[@reimopeimo]

Mr Subaru, you're good man! 100% agreed what you're saying. I have to explain to all of my friends the same thing. 97% is owners fault. It's hard but it's true!

[@sp1d3r7]

Spot on MrSubaru1387, I've owned everything from highly modified WRXs through to grocery getter Foresters and have never had a major issue with a head gasket. My 2012 WRX had an oil blow back issue with the turbo which was repaired under warranty. My 2004 XS Forester had a head gasket oil leak after 350,000Km (217,000 Miles). My other Subaru's including Liberty, Impreza, Outback and current highly modified XT Forester have never had an issue. My mechanic loves them, regular service, oil & fluid checks & it ain't expensive. Like you said a Subaru isn't a Toyota etc, it needs a bit more love and if you take care if it then they'll go forever!!!

[@poochunit2903]

I had to replace my 04 LL Bean 3.0L's head gaskets at 200,000 miles. However it was my first car and I did not maintain it well out of ignorance and who knows how it was maintained before I owned it. And that engine did last 2 years after being overheated pretty bad (I was 18). Now it has 244,000 miles and is running great - I'd take it across the country tomorrow and it's my baby.

[@ritapoling3942]

I gotta share your video to my husband! He’s one of those guys ! I tried to tell him about flushing the brake fluid, the transmission fluid and the heating coolant! He’s one that thinks “ naw, they’re just trying to get more money out of you “ Geeze! Thanks so much for explaining it so very well as to WHY!! 😡👏🏻👍

[@Lightsout89]

I cant stress how good of a guy you are mate. If people are disregarding your information and advice they literally have bricks in their heads

[@GB-vw6kr]

Thanks for this, I just purchased a 2015 Subaru crosstrek XV and I've had people scoff at me buying this car, telling me to expect it to fall apart on me around 100k miles (Bought it at 74k miles) used, salvage (no mechanical damage, just the bumper, headlights and the hood) with one previous owner who took really good care of it. Frankly, I'm quit happy with my purchase and this just made me immensely better.

[@jimmylang8039]

Good Job 👍 This is the talk that a Dad has with his kid when he buys them a 1st car. Sadly this maybe the first time some people have ever heard about what maintaining a vehicle really means. Oh yeah and most Vehicles come with a book called "Vehicle Maintenance" and believe it or not it has a schedule for all consumables. Either inspect at specific miles or replace at specific miles. Learn to do the maintenance yourself cause saving money is like making money and it's just nut and bolts and if you can follow directions you can do all of it

[@capomand45]

I am on my 4th Subie, started with a Loyal wagon, two Outbacks, and a Forester XT. Each went over 200K miles without ANY mechanical issues. I change oil and filter at every 3k with Mobil 1 and use Wix premium filters, tire rotation at every LOF, brake pads and rotors were the only expensive parts used. I live in AZ and when the cars hit 200k I drive them up to Colorado Springs and sell them at premium $$, then return to AZ and buy a new one on the cheap. ,

[@rocketwalden76]

Its the vapes making the kids go nuts with their subarus! I have an ‘11 outback with the ej253 and 190k miles, runs great, even though its got some miles on it, I still choose to use oem subaru parts for routine maintenance and for parts that fail, who knows, the car might last longer than I think. And all it takes to make a subaru last is by just going easy on it, checking fluids religiously, not smoking crack, and changing the oil regularly, I’ll do my oil every 5k, and so far it seems to be keeping the motor in good shape.

[@ryanhill7318]

Love this! We have Outbacks, foresters, imprezas and an ascent in the family....all trouble free

[@imistimed6901]

This 💯 needed to be said. I fall into the "young" group that owns an '18 STI. This car has been modified from 8,000 miles and it's been such a learning experience with this car.... From various power levels 300whp to now 500whp...this car has not skipped a beat and hasn't shown signs of giving up on THE STOCK BLOCK. I know the gamble I'm taking with modifying but I've always put the best parts known and trusted by tuners around me and putting all the necessary supporting mods for these power levels AND doing all the maintenance regularly BUT also not beating on it and trying to race every person on the road. The car sits at 68xxx miles now and is still good (knock on wood) but I acknowledge the risks I'm taking making power and accept anything that comes with it rather than blaming the car cause it's not the cars fault. Anytime anyone gives me shit I joke along but then point out every little thing they're doing wrong that I know of and help educate and fix their bad habits so they have a deeper respect for the cars rather than beating them to shit. There's always gonna be idiots that don't care and will always talk crap on Subarus but I say let them leave the community and keep the better folks around 🤷🏻‍♂️. So once again thank you for saying this. It needed to be said. 🙏

[@stevemcrichards8768]

Taking care of your car becomes even more important the more power you out into the engine. I'm glad to hear an STi (VA) owner that actually is an adult with their car as this seems to be rare. I just find it funny that these guys who beat their cars think their cars are more valuable than the new car coming out for MY 2022 (VB?).

[@jwljwljwwwwl]

1 year later, has the 257 blown yet?

[@imistimed6901]

@@jwljwljwwwwl it actually did but due to my own greediness going for that 500whp 😂 I knew I was playing a dangerous game pushing for more and more but I wanted to see where she'd give out and we found it at 32psi LOL

[@jwljwljwwwwl]

@@imistimed6901 haha thats crazy. thanks for the update. I'm personally afraid to go much more than 18 psi on my 255. Did you repair or replace the shortblock?

[@imistimed6901]

@@jwljwljwwwwl of course! I like to be transparent too in my journey. The car was pushing happily at 22-25psi but like I said it was a risky game wanting more. (would've helped if my tuner knew I was running uel headers which I thought he knew LOL).. Completely replaced the block with a forged bottom end and rebuilt the top end with BC280 cams and valvetrain

[@Tigergaming-nj4no]

Thank you, Mr. Subaru for telling the truth these kids have no idea of how to drive these cars. Hell they shouldn’t even be driving them at all if they don’t know how to maintain it.

[@lordraiden5398]

I have a 02' WRX. I blew my engine back in 2012. At that point it had 176,000 hard hard miles on it. I drove it like Colin McRae every time I got behind the wheel. While I did initially have some problems with brake rotor warping and transmission issues I solved those with upgrades but had no engine problems until it blew. I am not going to lie and say I did my oil changes on time and kept it topped up. To me that just shows how robust these engines are. I had not even changed the factory timing belt. The failure was a rod bearing. It was my fault. I loaded the wrong tune on my access port and on a stock turbo it ran a sustained (was racing) high boost pressure of 19psi. I had just installed a downpipe and the access port. I love my car. Everytime something breaks I use that as a opportunity to make it better since I am obviously driving it harder than the factory intended.

[@samsorensen5246]

love the videos dude, I bought a 03 Outback and blew HGs. Only because previous owner blocked a pipe from the radiator? Had my mechanic save the day, he was recommended by my local subaru dealer. wish me luck haha.

[@samsorensen5246]

I should add this was the h6 3L

[@chrisb9478]

We’re on our 7th Subaru. Never had any major problems & only a couple small ones. I do really good maintenance on my vehicles though too. Our Cvt’s had fluid changed every 40k miles too though.

[@jlautomotive6349]

I have a 2012 outback 3.6, with 150,000 miles and I absolutely love this car! Not only are they amazing in the snow but with mixed driving I’m averaging almost 20 miles per gallon! I have known many people that I’ve had Subarus but only one has had head gasket issues and that was because he beat the ever living piss out of his car… And that was a WRX. Love the channel keep up the great work!

[@ryurc3033]

My favorite customers are the ones who tell me, I broke this, I was treating it like a rental geo......they know they f$$#ed up. Rare anymore

[@LilDiabloRob]

As a person who lives in southwest PA, I’ve owned a NON-TURBO AUTO 2007 IMPREZA WAGON. Worked for Subaru themselves for 5 years. Most towed in Subaru was the TURBO WRX/STI and the TriBeca. My NON-TURBO Impreza had constantly oil consumption issues. When it approached the oil change mark, 3000 miles, it would go through a 1/2 tank of gas and 2.5 quarts of oil around the 2700mile mark before needing to change the oil. My old Subaru was well maintained by an older couple. The reason why I traded it in 2 years to the day of owning it and 50k miles later, is because it started to have center diff issues, poor mpg, and the oil consumption. Besides all that, car was great in the snow paired with winter tires. Bout the car with 101k miles, traded it in at 151k miles.

[@jons4686]

My Legacy GT blew its head gasket at 130K fully stock. I'll admit I did drive the car kinda hard when I first got it. Nothing crazy like launching. The car has always been really well cared for by myself and the previous long time owner. Oil changes done on a schedule with frequent oil checks. I suspect the stock tuning which is known to be lean for emissions might have been a factor in the head gasket failure. Honestly I wasn't even that upset when it happened. While the engine was out I had an independent shop install Cobb stage 2 mods as well as a Crawford AOS, and high flow turbo oil feed. 30K later the car is doing great and fun as hell.

[@Hardcore_flat_four]

Did you examine the head gasket yourself or Did your mechanic use internet Subaru mythology to justify a costly repair?

[@300DBenz]

“Main reason Subarus are unreliable is the owner!” ......I can’t argue that... The only times my 1999 Legacy broke down and left me stranded is when I replaced the timing belt.... and not the pulleys (and the bearings failed, fortunately the valves didn’t get bent), and when I preemptively replaced the 200,000 mile old fuel pump...with a cheap airtex-wells pump (which failed after a month, now has a Denso pump). 268,000 miles and is still my daily driver (on the original head gaskets, I ❤️ the ej2.2)

[@TR6C]

Could not agree more with you that most if not all issues with WRX/sti are driver error. I have 97k miles in my hard! driven 100% stock 2017 WRX. By hard driven I don't mean abused. I will often up shift at high rpm (5k+ rpm). Oil changes every 5k mile, original clutch no aftermarket engine mods or tune. I have had 0 problems with the car except for a battery that failed at 37k miles and Subaru replaced it for free. One needs to know how to drive. Proper way to up and most importantly down shift. It drives me nuts reading WRX forums everyone want to mod the engine but seems not to want to put the effort into learning how to drive. A OEM WRX/sti is a blast to drive as is and if driven properly will last a very long time without problems.

[@TommyBlazeHD]

Okay, I’m glad you tempered your comment with the issue being about the owner. Head gasket issues did happen to us with our N/A 2.5 Outback. When I asked the dealership to install the turbocharged gasket, they didn’t want to do it. $5k later the Outback was fixed. Moral of your story is keep the turbo motor stock, and give it what it needs!

[@hcp520]

Daily driving a 94 JDM Legacy GT (EJ20H Twin Turbos). I love the car. It runs great for a 27-28 years old car with only 79k km (49k miles). Recently replaced the valve cover gaskets (original ones) and now they're running great except some exhaust gaskets are on their ways out for being too damn old. I agree that Subaru owners are to blame for their "unreliable" cars. They're so obsessed with modifying cars, running high boost turbos, not properly warming up/cooling down the engine or doing donuts in the snow or muds. I think Subaru is one of the best reliable car makers and their cars are amazing.

[@jameshyde1501]

Thank You!!! I have a 2011 Outback and still going Strong and Clean!! after 215,000 miles. My car is Great!! and have only given it regular maintenance.

[@ericMT]

I love these types of videos. Speak your mind, brother!

[@Nekodev]

Recently bought an 03 wrx with 144k on the odo and couldnt be happier with it! cant wait to see how it fares in the winter

[@paulmarsdensr1095]

Thank you for making this video. You are so right. I keep my 2017 base model WRX stock and the design of these engines by Subaru are amazing. If you maintain these cars right you will have a beautiful driving experience. I will never modify my wrx. Stay safe brother.

[@dougeutsey9533]

That’s what I know about Subaru no modify in anyway and do not run them hard it may last stay safe and keep your foot off the paddle

[@TheMrFlyBoy18]

2007 hawkeye sti Satin White Pearl here with 102k miles. I do most of the maintenance myself and still pulling strong to this day👍🏾

[@garysanders3193]

I love my 2015 Subaru Forester! No modifications, keep up with my regular maintenance and outside of replacing a few things in the front end, I have had no issues.

[@DigitalMentorGroup]

I also have a 2015 Forester. I received it in great condition! It is due for a valve body replacement, unfortunately. But my mechanic is taking care of it.

[@joelthorne7434]

You got my attention! I’m considering purchasing a first-time Subaru after seeing a video by a Toyota mechanic and Camry owner who pointed out a poorly constructed panel of his car. He remarked that the car was manufactured in the USA and that it wouldn’t have been accepted in a Toyota factory in Japan.

[@nicksteinbuch1561]

Well said my man! I'm actually a few months into working at a Subaru dealer. I am an ASE MasterTech coming from a different manufacturer and you are 100% correct sir. Just within the last few months of being there we've already gone through multiple WRX's with clutch issues or rod knock and simply just stupid concerns all related to poor maintenance , poor driving , or really really bad aftermarket accessories. But by far the best is when you get the ol " well I'm am engineer" which I guess basically means they know better than anybody of how things are supposed to work in a vehicle they are driving. Love your videos especially when you have to rant! Keep it up!

[@cesarmolina6233]

Bro my car has been at the shop for 2 week plus they can’t figure out what’s wrong. Two different dealers. I have owned the car 1 year. 10700 miles in one year. Oil changes every 4K miles. And they can’t even tell me what’s going on

[@avguy9949]

Mr Subaru, last year January my Nissan pickup was stolen, all I could get my hands on was a 2008 forester 2,5 with 312000km on it. Engine runs great still and has never been opened. What I have had to do, complete clutch, brake pads and discs, muffler and the spark plug seals. I didn't want to take the vehicle but I'm really loving the ride. My only issue is the price of gas 😅. Lastly, I really appreciate all the videos you have put up, still going through them and I'm learning alot. You got my subs sub 😂

[@mrpotatoheadracing]

My 2012 Outback now has a blown head gasket at 127,000 miles. And it has been maintained by a 22 year certified master technician... ...myself And as trucks being my primary source of work, you should see what these idiots do to these diesel trucks. The value of used trucks would be much lower if these kids would not have blown them all up...

[@suba-dude5516]

You nail it brother. Ive been with Subaru for 16 years and never had an issue, that is including three STIs. Now, I did switched my STI for an Acura Type S, but kept my Forester. Main reason? I hate the younger crowd that Subaru have been a magnet to in recent years. These kids are messing it up for us that grew up with Subaru as their dream car. Ugh.

[@GixxerRider1991]

I agree with this. I have a modded 370Z, but I'm not going to blame Nissan if I blow up the rear end, or if a set of rear tires lasts me less than 10,000 miles. I know I beat the hell out of it sometimes, so I own the consequences when it breaks.

[@lawrencecavens5760]

Good Rant there and I TOTALLY Agree with you... Logic suggests 1+1= -1?? -NOT!!! people need to pay attention to maintenance.. and as always You my dear sir are a credit to the mechanic profession... Keep up the great work. Cheers

[@trevorshiffermiller2412]

I have been extremely happy with my 2015 2.5i forester with CVT. It has been a fantastic vehicle. All maintenance done with factory parts and Royal Purple fluids. Currently has 117k miles and I have only had issues with the AC compressor (known issue) and wheel bearing/hub (known issue). The AC compressor originally had issues with leaking and not keeping the AC cold. Replaced under warranty. Had a second compressor do the exact same thing, replaced under extended warranty. Just after extended warranty expired had a 3rd compressor leak and replaced with aftermarket lifetime warranty compressor and haven’t had an issue since but also hasn’t been long enough to know for sure. The wheel bearings/hubs have been a known issue on the 14-18 foresters. My first (drivers side rear) happened before 12k miles. Loud growling sound. Replaced under warranty. I had all of the bearing/hubs replaced under extended warranty except the passenger front again, including the drivers rear that had already been replaced once, before the extended warranty expired. Haven’t had an issue since then but again not that many miles as most of them were replaced at around 90k. Do I consider any of that bad for a vehicle? No. As Mr.Subaru said every vehicle has issues which need to be fixed. At least the issues I have with the bearings is an easy change that I can do myself if it crops up again now that I am out of warranty. When they fail it is a loud growling and I know I need to change the bearings/hub and will get it done. I have maintained my wife’s Honda’s and had the same kind of issues and paid a lot more for the parts. Our last Honda, which will be our last, was difficult to work on in the driveway and when it started burning oil at 40k they wouldn’t take care of the issue. We kept it until about 110k replacing fowled spark plugs and putting in 3 to 4 quarts of oil between oil changes with Honda Claiming that was completely normal and unwilling to do anything. We sold it with the documentation Honda was saying everything was normal. None of my other vehicles burn oil at all between oil changes. All my other vehicles have higher mileage than that Honda and except for the Subaru are older model years. My family has have extremely good luck with Chrysler corp vehicles and I still own 2 myself in addition to my Subaru Forester. I have found that if you just keep up with maintenance and don’t start ripping things apart and modifying them vehicles work great for a long time in general.

[@Hanky_Bannist8r]

I "was" the guy who avoided Subaru's like the plague because I listened to everyone else. I just bought a 2006 Outback Limited 2.5i with 273k miles on it for $1500. Just changed the coolant crossover pipe O-rings, alternator and the battery. Still runs pretty good but the previous owner took extremely good care of it with tedious record. It's all about proper service and not driving like an asshat.

[@davidmahan4160]

I love your honesty and factual vlogs, they are educational for those who do their own maintenance. I leave the my maintenance to the dealership. Keep up with the great work. Venting is good for the soul 🙂👍

[@patrickmaloy5262]

I live in a state (and especially a city) populated with Subarus. People love their Subarus and depend on them. They're the go-to car when the weather turns bad, or one wants to be out in the mountains, ski slopes, or at the beach. We own a 2018 Legacy that's been trouble free. Can't say that for the Prius we also own.

[@FliteFlix]

Love your content. I have a 2008 WRX white Sedan. Love the sleeper look. Completely stock 170,000 miles with just normal maintenance i.e. brakes, clutch, timing belt. So much fun to drive. Keep up the great work.

[@PeatyR]

Rant warranted, agree 100% I'm on Subaru #14 starting with a Brat in the late 70's. I maintain my cars and have not had a major issue. I've modified a few but always maintain them well. If I've screwed up something, it was on me not Subaru. Live and learn. I have witnessed exactly what you are describing though. Just the other day some one brought up the head gasket issue when I said I have 3 Subaru's right now I just rolled my eyes. Thanks as alway for your videos.

[@mrch33sehed93]

Just like their commercial, "Love, it's what makes a Subaru, a Subaru " The ones with issues dont love their Subaru unfortunately.

[@frafraplanner9277]

After getting to drive Subarus a few times, it boggles my mind how someone could own one and not love it enough to properly maintain it

[@Ghostman86]

I currently own a 99 impreza outback sport with 170,000 miles on it, and have owned three other subies, and can tell everyone from experience that they are great cars!! Best bang for your buck in my opinion. Cheap, easy on gas, ALL WHEEL DRIVE, and reliable. But like you said Mr. Subaru, you have to treat them right. Proper maintenance is key. Couldn't agree more! Good video!