Thinking about this 2009 3.0 Limited… should I go for it or not

What do you all think about this car? I’m feeling tempted

If it’s under $5K, you should definitely grab it before someone else does

Jeharys said:
If it’s under $5K, you should definitely grab it before someone else does

They’re asking 8k but I was thinking 6

Brook said:

Jeharys said:
If it’s under $5K, you should definitely grab it before someone else does

They’re asking 8k but I was thinking 6

For 6, it needs to be in perfect condition. I paid 1500 for mine about 8 months ago. The dash needs replacing and the paint is faded since it’s from FL. Other than that, it’s in great shape

@ToyotaLeez
Wow, what year are you living in?

Brook said:
@ToyotaLeez
Wow, what year are you living in?

I got lucky honestly. A buy here sell here dealer listed it on FB.

Things balanced out for me because I bought my XT for 8.5 and the engine failed just two days later. Lol!

Those wheels aren’t stock. I’m not sure what they belong to.

But the 3.0 engines are fantastic and these Outbacks generally have few issues. The main concern is the transmission. The 5eat models are known for harsh shifting, especially from 2nd to 3rd. Fixes can range from a fluid flush to new valve body and solenoids.

If you’re not familiar with this generation, some common minor issues to check for include:

  • Broken wires to the rear hatch (check if everything works back there like lock, wiper, defroster, etc.)
  • Power steering pump squealing (usually just a 50 cent O-ring)
  • Does the AC work? The 3.0s had an issue where the shims were too thin on the AC clutch, causing engagement problems over time
  • Potential oil cooler leaks, which just need an O-ring but require draining coolant
  • Rear suspension wear can lead to ghost walking
  • Airbag light on the dash due to broken solder connection in overhead warning

@ToyotaLeez
Thanks for all the helpful tips!

Brook said:
@ToyotaLeez
Thanks for all the helpful tips!

That’s pretty accurate. I have an 09 in Seacrest Green with 155k. It’s amazing and dependable, but you’ll likely need to handle some overdue maintenance. Those wheels would raise some questions for me

@Bliss
I have 6 of them. Lol. So I’m pretty experienced with their issues.

@ToyotaLeez
I think those wheels are from a Dodge Grand Caravan

@ToyotaLeez
This generation of Subaru uses a 5x100 lug pattern, not the usual 5x115. Honestly, those wheels remind me of ones from a similar era Forester

Maybe you shouldn’t

Tate said:
Maybe you shouldn’t

How can you say that to me?

Brook said:

Tate said:
Maybe you shouldn’t

How can you say that to me?

Are you handy, or will you take it to a shop for maintenance?

If you’re doing most of the work yourself, go for it

Make sure to get it inspected!

I have a 2011 3.6R with 120K miles and it’s a great car

Brandy said:
Make sure to get it inspected!

I have a 2011 3.6R with 120K miles and it’s a great car

I just had to replace my 2011 3.6 with 196k on it. It was a sad day, but I’m really loving my 2022 2.5 already!

Don’t do it

I bought a similar one a year and a half ago and I love it. Zero problems so far, rides great, it’s fast, makes great sounds, super practical and affordable

Those are the best looking rims ever!