OT: Looking at a WRX, Subaru gurus chime in Options

[Part Pricer]

I've been looking at getting a new daily driver for myself. I was seriously considering a new STI and still am. However, someone local to me is selling a 2002 WRX with 38k miles that they state is in excellent condition. And, the price is very attractive.

Now, if I bought a new car, I wouldn't be concerned about some of the potential shortcomings with the car because of the warranty. But, this car is no longer covered by the factory warranty. So, I'm a little concerned.

I know that there are quite a few folks here that have considerable experience with Subarus. Is there anything that I should be on the lookout for when I go to look at this car? Are there any major issues with this year and/or model?

Thanks

[horizontally-opposed]

Interesting, I am selling my 2003 WRX sedan just now. Miles are 29,000 and my price is $19,700 (excellent to VERY nice condition). Just waiting for the title to arrive before getting serious about selling it. Warranty still applies bumper to bumper until 36,000 miles and powertrain warranty is good til 50,000. There is also the option to extend the coverage for between $750-1200 (I think).

SO, the car you are looking at should still have powertrain coverage...

Subies are known to be pretty reliable. The only fault in two years and 29,000 miles with my car is one burned out license plate light bulb. I think there was a minor oil leak near the turbo that resulted in white smoke once, but the dealer insists it was "something from the road" that was kicked up onto the cat.

The key with WRXs is to get one that has not been hacked on, tracked, or abused. These cars are the Dodge Omni GLH of our time, cheap, useful, damn fast, and aimed at a crowd that likes to abuse their cars. And how many GLHs do you see on the road these days?

The VERY BIG difference is that Subaru actually makes a very tough car, so I think the WRXs will be on the road "forever" -- but you might not want one that's been beat down, chipped, thrashed, etc. See how the shifter feels. Ask the owner what kind of oil they used, how often they changed it, how they warmed it up in the morning, etc. etc. All the usuals...