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looking at buying 1998 subaru impreza with 90,000 miles.
Sent to Car Experts May 05 01:30 PM

looking at buying 1998 subaru impreza with 90,000 miles. the body is good, and all the electrical seems fine. the asking price is $4,500. What should i look for mechanically so i don''t end up with a lemon?

 

Optional Information:
1998 impreza awd 5 door

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status:  Closed   Value: $15
Info Request
May 5 3:36 PM (2 hours and 6 minutes and 21 seconds later)
         
Hi there!IS it automatic or manual transmission?

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carguy1 -- Auto Service Technician -- 99% Positive Feedback on 1645 Car Accepts
25years experience,certified subaru technician,Nissan factory trained
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May 5 5:35 PM (1 hour and 59 minutes and 17 seconds later)
         
automatic. 2.5 litre
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
May 5 6:29 PM (53 minutes and 16 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark
OK.With the automatic there are a couple of transmission issues to look for.First,when you shift from park to drive,make sure it goes in fairly quickly,2 to 2.5 seconds.Subarus sometimes have a leaking seal inside that delays the shift.If it has this problem you are looking at replacing the transmission.Second,on the test drive,make some tight turns,as if you were pulling into a parking spot.It should be smooth,if you feel any type of binding then the transfer clutches may need replacing.That is really it for major problems with these cars.I would suggest after purchase,you have the timing belt replaced.It is a zero clearence engine and if the belt breaks it's trouble.Hope this helps!Thanks

If I have helped you please accept and leave positive feedback. My reputation is important to me.If you need further assistance, please ask. Thanks BONUS is always appreciated!!
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carguy1 -- Auto Service Technician -- 99% Positive Feedback on 1645 Car Accepts
25years experience,certified subaru technician,Nissan factory trained
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May 5 7:18 PM (49 minutes and 30 seconds later)
         
Any issues with blown head gaskets. if so, how to detect it.
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
May 5 7:26 PM (7 minutes and 16 seconds later)
         
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carguy1 -- Auto Service Technician -- 99% Positive Feedback on 1645 Car Accepts
25years experience,certified subaru technician,Nissan factory trained
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