98 LGT Limited Wagon

[speresy]

Looking at this 1998 Legacy GT Limited Wagon. Its a 5spd, 95,XXX miles, etc.

 

Anything in particular to look out for? Plan on getting a carfax and copy of the mechanics report. Thanks for the help

 

http://images.autotrader.com/images/2008/5/15/244/713/7148481952.244713121.IM1.MAIN.565x421_A.562x421.jpg

 

http://images.autotrader.com/images/2008/5/15/244/713/7148481953.244713121.IM1.03.565x421_A.562x421.jpg

[jpapanas]

Head Gaskets:

This generation of LGT is prone to head gasket failures. This is a very expensive repair so if you don't have proof that both head gaskets were replaced then use that in your negotiation on price, but budget $1500 for this repair.

 

The nasioc forum has more info on this 2nd generation LGT than this forum does: http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1561981

 

 

Also, with that mileage, it's due for a timing belt replacement soon at 105,000 miles. Here is the maintenance schedule:

http://www.subaru.com/owners/schedules/index.jsp?navid=SCHEDULE_1998

 

Regards,

Jim

[Mr. Sinister]

Along with the timing belt that Jim mentioned, it'll also need a valve adjustment.

 

Even if the HG has been replaced, it doesn't mean it won't go again. I know of a car that had them replaced at ~60K and like clockwork, it started showing signs of a leak again at ~120K.

[Garandman]

I replaced my HG at 140,000 miles and they were fine at 189,000 when we sold it. If the repair lasts less than 100,000 miles it probably wasn't done properly - the heads warp quite a bit and must be machined.

 

The big thing to know is that this was just a trim level - a Legacy wagon with some options and an Outback hood and 16" wheels. There are few ways to improve performance, none economical. It is a practical, fairly durable wagon but all it has in common with the Gen III turbocharged cars is the letters GT.